The ACT organization has announced format changes for the 2026 exam that reduce the total number of questions while allocating more time to each remaining item, a move widely reported by U.S. media outlets including WOWT. The change arrives as the SAT has grown in popularity and the broader admissions landscape continues to evolve, with many colleges maintaining flexible testing policies and some states debating alternative or additional entrance exams.
What this means for students in Jordan and the Middle East is practical and immediate. A test with fewer questions but more time per item may favor deeper reading and problem-solving strategies over rapid guessing. Students who previously relied on speed to boost raw scores could see different pacing requirements; those who work methodically may find the new format less stressful. Admissions offices will still receive scaled scores, but small shifts in percentile distributions are possible while colleges and scholarship committees adapt to the new baseline.
Concrete steps for applicants: take a diagnostic ACT or SAT under timed conditions now to identify your natural fit; if you are applying to U.S. or international programs for 2026–27, aim to complete standardized testing by October–November of your senior year at the latest so scores are on time for Early Action/Early Decision or regular deadlines. Registration windows change less than two months before test dates, so check ACT.org and CollegeBoard.org for the official 2026 schedules and register early — international seats can fill. For students seeking scholarships or competitive business programs, submit your scores well before scholarship deadlines and consult target universities’ policies on test submission and superscoring.
Preparation advice: adapt practice sessions to the new pacing — fewer items with longer time per question — and focus on accuracy, higher-order reasoning, and endurance across sections. Use full-length practice exams to monitor timing and stamina. If you’re undecided between the ACT and SAT, compare your diagnostic percentiles on both tests; the recent surge in SAT takers makes that test a viable alternative for many applicants. Shatnawi for College Admissions can help with free diagnostics, tailored prep plans, and matching your test choice to university requirements and scholarship opportunities.
For help with test selection, registration, timing and admissions strategy, contact Shatnawi for College Admissions and Academic Consultations. Visit shatnawiedu.com or message our WhatsApp at +962791888699 to book a consultation and get an updated test timeline that fits your application calendar.