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ACT Exam Syllabus 2025: Section-Wise Breakdown

7 July 2025 by
ACT Exam Syllabus 2025: Section-Wise Breakdown
Komal Kumari

English

The focus of this section in ACT Exams is to assess the overall understanding of the standard written English among the students, this section focusses on grammar, sentence structuring, punctuation and rhetorical skills. One must go through several passages and edit them to improve their clarity and effectiveness.

  • Grammar usage, punctuation, and sentence structure
  • Rhetorical skills like strategy, organisation, and style
  • 5 passages with multiple-choice questions testing editing skills

Mathematics

This section is designed to measure the mathematical skills of the aspirants; this typically checks the basic maths skills that one has acquired during their school years. Topics covered in this section ranges from pre- algebra to trigonometry. Strong problem-solving skills and strong understanding of the mathematical formular are essential.

  • Pre-Algebra: Basic operations, fractions, ratios, percentages
  • Elementary Algebra: Expressions, linear equations
  • Intermediate Algebra: Quadratic equations, functions
  • Coordinate Geometry: Graphs, slopes, distance formula
  • Plane Geometry: Shapes, angles, theorems
  • Trigonometry: Trigonometric ratios, equations

Reading

This section assesses your ability to read and understand closely, and use information from texts. You will need to interpret meaning, intent and tone across diverse subject matters.

  • 4 long-form passages from literary narrative, humanities, social science, and natural science
  • Questions on main ideas, tone, detail, and interpretation

Science

This section, rather than testing your knowledge of scientific facts, measures your ability to interpret, analyse, and evaluate scientific information. You will encounter data in the form of charts, graphs, and experimental summaries.

  • Emphasis on scientific reasoning rather than recall of scientific facts
  • Includes graphs, charts, and conflicting viewpoints
  • 3 types of questions: Data Representation, Research Summary, and Conflicting Viewpoints

Writing (Optional)

Although, this section is not mandatory, The ACT writing section gives students the opportunity to showcase their skillsets to write a well-structured, analytical essay. It requires you to evaluate different perspectives on an issue so that you build your own argument on the same.

  • One essay task presenting multiple viewpoints
  • Students are asked to develop an argument, analyse perspectives, and present their own view
  • Scored separately (not included in composite score)

ACT Exams Syllabus 2025

How to Prepare for the ACT Syllabus (TestPrep Quick Guide)

Subject wise tips:

  • English: Brush up on grammar rules; practise with ACT-style editing passages
  • Maths: Memorise key formulas, solve time-bound problem sets
  • Reading: Improve reading speed and comprehension by practising daily
  • Science: Focus on interpreting graphs and understanding experiments
  • Writing: Practise timed essays; structure your argument clearly

Preparation Timeline:

  • 6 Months Before: Focus on building fundamentals and understanding the exam format
  • 3 Months Before: Take practice tests; identify and address weak areas
  • 1 Month Before: Focus on revision and full-length mock exams under timed conditions

Conclusion

The ACT examination is an important stepping stone for students who are willing to pursue undergraduate education in the United States or Canada. Understanding the necessity of the structured syllabus and thus creating a detailed plan for your test preparation can help you increase your chances of securing a higher score.

At MetaApply IE, we provide students with complete guidance on every aspect of their study abroad journey. From providing counselling on suitable exams to developing a strategically planned TestPrep methodology. We streamline all the processes for you. With expert guidance, you will not just simplify your study pattern but also will be able to have a mentor even after you clear the examination as we will be fully preparing you for your study abroad journey.

Want top-notch ACT test prep advice? Get in touch with MetaApply IE today and embark on the path to your preferred university!

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