ACT Drops Science from Composite: Mr. Test Prep Offers Free SAT vs. ACT Diagnostic

In a significant shift for college admissions testing, the ACT has changed its Composite score calculation, and Mr. Test Prep, an online ACT test prep service founded by Michael Romano, is urging families to reconsider their SAT vs. ACT decision. Since September 2025, the ACT Composite is based solely on English, math, and reading—science remains a section but no longer contributes to the Composite. This change, which took effect for national online testing in April 2025 and for the paper test in September 2025, alters which students the ACT favors. Students who previously leaned on science to boost their Composite lose that advantage, while those who struggled with science no longer have it drag down their score. Additionally, pacing differences between the two tests and among ACT sections can significantly impact performance, a factor that doesn't appear on transcripts. As Romano notes, "Two students can know the same material and produce dramatically different scores."

To help families navigate this new landscape, Mr. Test Prep offers a free two-hour trial session that includes a diagnostic test and a direct SAT vs. ACT recommendation. The session is conducted online via Zoom for students in Palo Alto, the Bay Area, and beyond. Romano's approach, encapsulated in The Mr. Test Prep Method™, covers content, question logic, and pacing, while A-Game Access™ focuses on performance under time pressure. With over 26 years of experience and more than 4,000 students taught, Romano emphasizes that guessing at the answer costs families more than measuring it—hence the free recommendation session. The trial concludes with a Zoom call covering diagnostic results, test selection, prep frequency, and target scores, followed by a written proposal. Families can book by phone at +1 (650) 575-5867 or through the Mr. Test Prep website.

This development is particularly relevant for students who have already made test choices based on the old ACT format. The enhanced ACT structure—English 50 questions in 35 minutes, math 45 in 50, reading 36 in 40, and science 40 in 40—means that timing and section strengths play a crucial role in final scores. Romano's free trial aims to provide clarity in this changed landscape, ensuring that decisions are data-driven rather than assumptions. As the founder puts it, the goal is "Elevating More Than A Score!" by building confidence and strategic test-taking skills.