Navigating SAT and ACT Changes: A Guide for the Classes of 2026 and 2027
Freshman families, take a deep breath - your 9th grader doesn't need to start memorizing SAT vocabulary just yet! But for our current sophomores and juniors, let's talk about navigating the changing landscape of standardized testing.
With major changes coming to the ACT in 2025, many students and families are wondering which standardized test path to pursue. Based on recent analysis, we have clear recommendations for both current sophomores and juniors.
For the Class of 2026 (Current Juniors): We strongly recommend focusing on either the digital SAT or the current (Classic) ACT. The SAT offers the clearest pathway, with consistent test formats, abundant practice materials, and universal acceptance by colleges. If choosing the ACT, stick with the Classic version through July 2025, and be sure to include the Science section.
The new "Core ACT" launching in April 2025 presents too many unknowns for the Class of 2026. Limited testing locations, potential technical challenges during the initial rollout, and unclear college policies regarding the optional Science section make this a uncertain choice for current juniors. Additionally, the staggered implementation of the Core ACT means many students won't have access to it until senior year, which is far from ideal for testing timelines.
For schools requiring test scores – and several top institutions are returning to test-required policies – having reliable, well-understood scores will be crucial. This makes the digital SAT or Classic ACT safer choices for the Class of 2026.
For the Class of 2027 (Current Sophomores): The digital SAT emerges as the leading option, but students should remain flexible. The SAT offers several advantages:
- Excellent diagnostic testing options, including the PSAT
- Full schedule of test dates throughout the year
- Abundant preparation materials from both College Board and test prep companies
- Universal acceptance by colleges
- Stable digital format that's been in use since March 2023
While the Core ACT will be fully implemented by the time sophomores begin their primary testing period, we recommend they seek practice test experiences with both exams to determine their best fit. The testing landscape continues to evolve, with many colleges returning to test-required policies and developing specific policies about ACT Science scores.
Important Considerations for Both Classes:
- Register early for preferred test dates and locations, as capacity can be limited in some regions
- Take diagnostic tests in both formats to determine your optimal choice
- If choosing the ACT, consider taking the Science section even when optional, as many colleges haven't clarified their stance on this component
- Consider superscoring policies in your test planning, especially during the ACT transition period
- Keep track of testing policies at your target schools, as many are shifting back to requiring test scores
Key Takeaway: Students in both classes should take at least one official SAT or ACT to maintain flexibility in their college options. The digital SAT currently offers the most stable and predictable path forward. However, each student should take diagnostic tests in both formats to determine their optimal choice, and stay informed about ongoing policy changes at their target schools. The goal is to build a testing plan that maximizes opportunities for success while minimizing uncertainty in the college application process.
Additional Resources/Information On College Admission Standardized Testing:
- Testing policies at popular colleges
- Windward Academy Test Prep Sign-up (Practice exams for spring are March 7 for ACT and April 12 for SAT)
