38–50% of scored questions
ACT Science skill hub
ACT Science Practice by Skill
The ACT Science section has 40 questions in 40 minutes; according to ACT, 34 are scored and 6 are field-test questions. ACT reports Science results in these categories: Interpretation of Data (38–50%), Scientific Investigation (18–32%), and Evaluation of Models & Results (24–38%). Science is optional and does not count toward the Composite score.
40 questions40 minutesOptional, not in the Composite
Reporting categories
Which ACT Science skills should you practice?
| Category | Share of scored questions | Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Interpretation of Data | 38–50% | 3 questions with explanations |
| Scientific Investigation | 18–32% | 3 questions with explanations |
| Evaluation of Models & Results | 24–38% | 3 questions with explanations |
18–32% of scored questions
ACT Scientific Investigation Practice
Practice ACT Science Scientific Investigation with original questions on variables, controls, fair comparisons, and predicting results of modified experiments.Open practice page24–38% of scored questions
ACT Evaluation of Models and Results Practice
Practice ACT Science Evaluation of Models and Results with original questions on hypotheses, conclusions, and comparing two scientists' explanations.Open practice pageSection format
How is the ACT Science section set up?
| Questions | 40 (34 scored, 6 field test) |
|---|---|
| Time | 40 minutes |
| Average time per question | About 60 seconds |
| What it measures | Interpretation, analysis, reasoning, and problem-solving in biology, chemistry, and Earth and space sciences |
| Counts toward the Composite | No. Science is optional and adds a STEM score |
FAQ
ACT Science questions
How many questions are on the ACT Science section?
According to ACT, the Science section has 40 questions in 40 minutes: 34 scored questions and 6 field-test questions that do not count toward your score. That averages about 60 seconds per question.
What are the ACT Science reporting categories?
ACT lists these Science reporting categories, with each one's share of scored questions: Interpretation of Data (38–50%), Scientific Investigation (18–32%), and Evaluation of Models & Results (24–38%). Your score report shows how many questions you answered correctly in each category.
Does ACT Science count toward the Composite score?
No. According to ACT, the Composite score is the average of English, math, and reading. Science is optional; students who take it also receive a STEM score, the average of their math and science scores.
Are these real ACT Science questions?
No. Every question on Dolphin's ACT Science practice pages is original practice written to match an ACT reporting category. For released questions in the real test format, use ACT's free official practice tests.
More ACT practice
Practice the other ACT sections
Sources
Where these facts come from
- ACT: Understanding Your ACT Scores
- ACT: Test Enhancements and Changes
- ACT: Official test preparation and free practice tests
ACT facts checked . Every practice question in this hub is original Dolphin practice, not a released ACT item.
ACT® is a trademark registered by ACT, Inc., which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, Dolphin.