Are you curious about how your ACT score stacks up against other students? Understanding your ACT score and how it compares nationally is crucial for your college application process. This article breaks down ACT scoring, national ranks, and what constitutes a good score, helping you interpret your results and set realistic college goals.
How is Your ACT Score Calculated?
Your ACT score is determined through a straightforward process:
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Correct Answers Counted: The number of questions you answer correctly in each section (English, Math, Reading, Science) is tallied. There’s no penalty for guessing, so incorrect answers don’t deduct points.
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Raw Scores Converted to Scale Scores: Your raw scores (number correct) are converted to scale scores, ranging from 1 to 36 for each section. This ensures consistent scoring across different test versions.
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Composite Score Calculated: Your Composite score, the average of your four test scores rounded to the nearest whole number, is calculated. Fractions less than one-half are rounded down; fractions one-half or more are rounded up.
Note: Starting in April 2025 for online tests and September 2025 for paper tests, the ACT format will be updated. The Composite score will primarily focus on English, Math, and Reading, with Science reported separately.
Understanding Your ACT Score in Relation to Others
What is a Good ACT Score?
A “good” ACT score is relative to your college aspirations. While a higher score generally improves your chances, different colleges have different average ACT score ranges for admitted students. Researching your target schools’ average ACT scores is crucial.
How Are You Compared Nationally? National Rank Explained
Your ACT score report includes your “US Rank,” indicating how your score compares to other recent high school graduates who took the ACT. This percentile rank helps you understand your performance on a national scale. For example, a national rank of 75 means you scored higher than 75% of test-takers.
ACT Score Benchmarks for College and Career Readiness
ACT Benchmarks represent scores associated with a 50% chance of earning a B or higher or a 75% chance of earning a C or higher in corresponding first-year college courses. These benchmarks provide a helpful guide for college readiness.
| Test | Number of Questions | Reporting Categories |
|---|---|---|
| English | 75 | Production of Writing (29-32%) Knowledge of Language (15-17%) Conventions of Standard English (52-55%) |
| Mathematics | 60 | Preparing for higher math (57-60%) – Number & Quantity (7–10%) – Algebra (12–15%) – Functions (12–15%) – Geometry (12–15%) – Statistics & Probability (8–12%) Integrating essential skills (40-43%) Modeling |
| Reading | 40 | Key ideas and details (52-60%) Craft and structure (25-30%) Integration of knowledge and ideas (13-23%) |
| Science | 40 | Interpretation of data (40-50%) Scientific investigation (20-30%) Evaluation of Models, inferences, and experimental results (25-35%) |
Making Sense of Your ACT Score
Your ACT score is a significant factor in college admissions, but it’s not the only one. Colleges consider your GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. Use your ACT score, in conjunction with your national rank and the average scores of your target colleges, to understand your standing and make informed decisions about your college applications. Remember, a well-rounded application can significantly impact your admission chances.
