Should I take the optional ACT Science section?
Updated November 3, 2026 · facts checked against College Board and ACT sources listed below
Short answer
Take ACT Science if you are applying to engineering, science or other STEM programs, or to any college or scholarship that asks for it, because it adds a Science score and a STEM score to your report. If none of your colleges want it, you can skip it: it does not count toward the Composite, and skipping it saves 40 minutes.
Reasons to take it
- You plan to apply to STEM programs that look at a STEM score or a Science score.
- A college or state scholarship you are targeting lists ACT Science or STEM among its requirements.
- Science is a strength for you and you want it on your record.
Reasons to skip it
- None of your colleges or scholarships ask for it.
- You would rather spend your prep time raising English, Math and Reading, which make up the Composite.
- You want a shorter test day.
How to check
Look at the admissions testing page of each college on your list and any scholarship you are applying for. Policies are set by each institution and change, so check them in the year you apply.
Common questions
Does ACT Science affect my Composite?
No. Since 2025 the Composite is the average of English, Math and Reading only.
What is the ACT STEM score?
A score that combines Math and Science. You only get it if you take the optional Science section.
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Sources
Policies and formats change; confirm details on collegeboard.org or act.org before you register.