ACT: To Science or Not to Science?

The ACT Decision Tree
The Science section is now optional and no longer counts toward your Composite score (1–36). However, skipping it isn't always the right move. Use this guide to decide.

Step 1: The "Must-Take" List
Are you applying to any of the following?
Service Academies: U.S. Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, etc.
Specific Private Universities: Georgetown, Boston University, Pomona College.
Top-Tier STEM Programs: MIT, Caltech, or Georgia Tech.
YES to any? → TAKE THE SCIENCE SECTION. These schools still require or "strongly recommend" it to see your scientific reasoning.

Step 2: The "Major" Factor
What is your intended college major?
STEM Major: (Engineering, Biology, Pre-Med, Computer Science, Physics)
Action: TAKE IT. You will receive a separate STEM Score (average of Math & Science). Admissions officers for these majors want to see this specific metric.
Humanities/Arts: (English, History, Graphic Design, Music)
Action: CONSIDER SKIPPING. If the schools on your list are "Test Optional" or "Science Optional," your time is better spent perfecting your Reading and English scores.

Step 3: The "Strength" Test
How do you perform in Science?
"I’m a data whiz." If you are good at reading charts, graphs, and identifying trends quickly, take it! A high Science score (even if optional) is a "value-add" to your application.
"Science is my weakest subject." Skip it. Since it doesn’t affect your Composite score anymore, there is no reason to let a low Science score distract from a great 3-section Composite.

"Optional" does not mean "Irrelevant." If you are unsure, take it once. If you do great, send the score. If you don't, you can take the 'Core-Only' version next time and your Composite score won't be dragged down by the Science result.

If you...	Take Science	Skip Science
Goal	Apply to competitive STEM or Top-20 schools.	Maximize the composite score with less fatigue.
Score Impact	Calculated into a STEM Score only.	Zero impact on your 1–36 Composite.
Test Length	Adds 40 minutes to your day.	Finished in approx. 2 hours.
Strategy	Shows "Scientific Reasoning" skills.	Allows 100% focus on English, Math, and Reading.