How to Respec Ascendancy in Path of Exile 2

By Daniel Hidalgo | 2025-04-21 08:44:17
One of the most crucial decisions a player makes in Path of Exile 2 is selecting an Ascendancy class. This choice defines a character’s playstyle, strengths, and overall viability in both solo and group play. However, as players progress, they may realize their initial choice doesn’t suit their preferred build or strategy. Fortunately, Grinding Gear Games (GGG) allows players to respec their Ascendancy, though the process is more involved than resetting the passive skill tree.
This guide will explain how to respec your Ascendancy in PoE 2, including the requirements, limitations, and best practices for a smooth transition.

Why Respec Your Ascendancy?


Ascendancy classes provide powerful bonuses that shape a character’s identity. However, players might want to change their Ascendancy for several reasons:
  • Build Optimization: Some Ascendancies synergize better with certain skills or gear.
  • Meta Shifts: Balance changes may make another Ascendancy more viable.
  • Playstyle Preference: A player may grow tired of their current specialization and want to experiment.
Unlike passive skill refunds—which only require a small amount of gold per node—respeccing an Ascendancy involves completing Trials again.

How to Respec Your Ascendancy in PoE 2


The process is similar to unlocking Ascendancies initially, but with key differences based on your character’s progression.

Step 1: Complete the Appropriate Trial Again


To change your Ascendancy, you must re-attempt a Trial of the Sekhemas or Trial of Chaos that matches the number of Ascendancy points you currently have.Here’s how it works, based on the latest patch notes:
  • Redoing an Ascendancy Trial allows you to reselect your Ascendancy class only if the Trial grants the same number of points you already possess.
  • Trials of Chaos with 7 chambers (granting up to 4 Ascendancy points) can now be attempted from level 55 (down from 60).
  • Trials of Chaos with 10 chambers (granting up to 6 Ascendancy points) can now be attempted from level 65 (down from 75).

Step 2: Remove Allocated Ascendancy Points


Before changing your Ascendancy, you must refund all allocated Ascendancy passive skills. Unlike passive tree respecs, you cannot change your Ascendancy while points are still invested.Fortunately, you don’t need to return to your hideoutBalbala (in the Trial of the Sekhemas) or The Trialmaster (in the Trial of Chaos) will appear near the Ascension Device, allowing you to refund points on the spot.Warning: The gold cost for refunding Ascendancy points scales with level, so ensure you have enough currency before attempting a respec.

Step 3: Select a New Ascendancy at the Ascension Device


Once you’ve completed the Trial and removed all Ascendancy points, interact with the Ascension Device to choose a new Ascendancy class.

Important Restrictions to Keep in Mind


  • Trial Difficulty Must Match Your Current Ascendancy Points

    • If you have only 2 Ascendancy points, you can respec by completing an early-game Trial.
    • If you have all 8 Ascendancy points, you must complete a high-level Trial (e.g., defeating Zarokh, the Temporal in a Level 75+ Inscribed Ultimatum or Level 75+ Djinn Barya).
    • Completing a lower-level Trial will NOT allow a respec for high-Ascension characters.
  • You Cannot Partially Respec Ascendancy Points

    • Unlike the passive tree, where you can refund nodes individually, Ascendancy respecs are all-or-nothing.
  • Gold Costs Can Be High at Higher Levels

    • Fully respeccing a late-game Ascendancy can be expensive, so plan accordingly.
  • When Should You Respec?


    • Early Game (Before Act 5): If you’re unhappy with your initial choice, respeccing early is cheaper and faster.
    • Mid Game (Maps & Early Endgame): If your build isn’t performing well, consider switching before investing heavily in gear.
    • Late Game (Uber Bosses & High-Tier Content): Only respec if absolutely necessary, as the cost and difficulty increase significantly.

    Final Tips for a Smooth Respec


    Farm enough gold before attempting a respec to avoid being locked out.
    Test builds in Path of Building before committing to a new Ascendancy.
    Check patch notes—GGG sometimes adjusts Ascendancy mechanics, making certain classes stronger or weaker.


    By understanding these mechanics, you can confidently adapt your character to the ever-changing world of Path of Exile 2. Happy reforging, Exile!

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