ACT scores are reported on a 1–36 scale for each section—English, Math, Reading, and Science. The overall, or composite, ACT score is the average of these four sections, also on a 1–36 scale. Although there is an optional writing test, its score (also 1–36) does not impact the composite score.
Typically, ACT scores become available around two weeks after the test date, and students can access their scores via their “My ACT” accounts. Note that the writing score is released separately and doesn’t influence the overall composite, so it does not factor into any ACT cutoff scores required by colleges.
| ACT Test Sections | ACT Section-wise Average Scores |
| English | 20.3 |
| Math | 20.9 |
| Reading | 21.3 |
| Science | 20.8 |
| Composite ACT Score | 21.0 |
How are ACT scores calculated?
To calculate your ACT scores, we first look at the number of questions you answered correctly in each test section.
- Correct Answers Only: Each section’s score starts with counting the questions answered correctly. Incorrect answers don’t reduce the score, so there’s no penalty for guessing.
- Conversion to Scale Scores: Your correct answers (raw scores) are then converted to “scale scores,” which range from 1 to 36. This ensures consistent scoring across different ACT test versions, regardless of the date.
- Composite Score Calculation: The Composite score is the average of the four main test scores (English, Math, Reading, and Science). This average is rounded to the nearest whole number, with scores rounding down if below 0.5 and rounding up if 0.5 or more.
- Reporting Categories: Each score report shows the total number of questions in each reporting category, the number you answered correctly, and the percentage correct. These categories are aligned with standards for college and career readiness, helping assess specific skill areas in each subject.
Tests, Questions, and Reporting Categories Related
The ACT is structured to assess a range of skills across four main subjects—English, Math, Reading, and Science—each with a series of questions targeting specific knowledge areas. Reporting categories provide insights into your strengths and areas for improvement within each subject, aligning your performance with college and career readiness standards.
| 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%) Modelling |
| 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%) |
What Is a Good ACT Score?
Including an ACT score in your college application can be pivotal for admissions, especially if you aim to meet the ACT cut off set by your chosen schools. What counts as a “good” ACT score varies depending on each person’s academic goals and the selectivity of the institutions they’re applying to.
For instance, some universities require students to meet specific ACT cut off scores. Additionally, understanding the ACT exam syllabus is essential for focused preparation. The syllabus includes sections on English, Math, Reading, Science, and an optional Writing test, each designed to assess college readiness.
For those considering taking the test, it’s also important to know about the ACT exam fees. These fees cover the cost of registration and vary based on whether the Writing section is included.
ACT Test Score Ranges
Understanding the ACT score ranges can help you assess your strengths and weaknesses. Each section of the ACT is scored from 1 to 36, and the scores are generally grouped into three ranges: below average (1-16), average (17-24), and above average (25-36).
- A score in the below-average range (1-16) shows areas where you can improve by reviewing the ACT exam syllabus and practising specific sections.
- A score in the average range (17-24) indicates that you’re meeting general expectations. However, higher-scoring schools may require scores in the above-average range.
- An above-average score (25-36) shows strong subject knowledge, which can open doors to competitive colleges and scholarships.
Whether you’re aiming to meet the ACT cut off for a particular school or improve in specific areas, preparing with a clear focus on your goals can help you succeed. Keep in mind ACT exam fees may vary based on the exam version you choose, especially if you opt to include the Writing section.
Lowest ACT score
Generally, the ACT cut off score varies by college, with many institutions accepting scores of 18-20 as a baseline. While a “good” ACT score is typically above the national average of 19.8, top colleges often prefer scores in the 27-32 range. Mid-tier schools consider 20-23 competitive, while highly selective colleges may seek scores above 30. Colleges weigh the ACT exam alongside GPA, essays, and activities, so a balanced application can enhance your chances even if your score falls slightly below the average.
How to Check ACT 2024 Results?
ACT scores are typically available online through your MyACT account. Multiple-choice scores are released around two weeks after each national test date, although it can take up to eight weeks in some cases. If you took the writing test, those scores are typically available two weeks after the multiple-choice scores, and your overall scores will not be officially reported until both are ready.
On certain test dates, ACT equating activities are conducted to ensure score consistency across different test forms. During these equating test dates, scores may take between 3 and 8 weeks to be available. It’s important to note that ACT Customer Support cannot provide scores via phone, email, or other communication methods.
ACT Results 2024
ACT test results are typically available within two to eight weeks after the test date, with scores accessible online via the MyACT account. If you took the ACT with writing, your writing scores will usually be available about two weeks after your multiple-choice scores. Once your scores are released, they can be sent to the universities you selected during registration at no additional cost for the first four schools. For each additional school, you’ll need to pay an extra fee.
Universities may also accept ACT superstores, which consider the highest individual scores for each section across multiple test attempts. If superstores are accepted, ACT will compile the best scores for each section and send them to the respective universities. However, it’s important to verify with the universities you are applying to if they accept this option. You can choose to either self-report your scores or have ACT send the official score reports directly to the institutions. Be sure to confirm with the universities beforehand, as some may have specific requirements.
Factors Influencing ACT Cut-Off Scores
When preparing for the ACT, understanding the ACT cut off scores for your target schools is crucial. These scores vary depending on factors such as competition, school selectivity, and scholarship opportunities, making it essential to know how your performance in each part of the ACT exam syllabus impacts your overall score. Here are some key factors:
- Competitive Standards: Top colleges often have high ACT cut off scores due to competitive applicant pools. These higher cut-offs reflect the standards set by these institutions to ensure admitted students have strong foundational skills in each part of the ACT exam syllabus.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Many scholarships, especially merit-based ones, have specific ACT cut off requirements. Meeting or exceeding these cut-offs can make students eligible for financial aid, reducing ACT exam fees and other college expenses.
- Individual Section Scores: Each section of the ACT exam syllabus contributes to your overall score, affecting the ACT cut off you meet for different programs. Performing consistently across all sections is beneficial, as some schools look at section-specific scores to assess strengths.
- Residency Status: For public institutions, ACT cut off scores may vary for in-state and out-of-state applicants, with different benchmarks impacting admission criteria.
Tips for Meeting the ACT Cut-Off
Meeting the ACT cut off is crucial for college admissions. Here are a few strategies to help you achieve this goal:
- First, familiarize yourself with the ACT exam syllabus to understand the content areas and topics that will be tested. This knowledge allows you to prioritize your study time effectively.
- Next, practice with official ACT materials to get a feel for the exam format and question types. By regularly taking full-length practice tests, you can build your confidence and improve your time management skills, which are essential for meeting the ACT cut off.
- Don’t forget to budget for ACT exam fees. Understanding the costs associated with registration, late fees, and study materials is vital to avoid any financial surprises that might hinder your preparation.
- Lastly, aim to stay disciplined in your study routine to ensure you’re well-prepared to exceed the ACT cut off and achieve your college goals.
In conclusion, understanding and focusing on the ACT exam syllabus and its important topics can make a real difference in achieving the desired ACT cut off. By aligning your study plan to cover essential areas and managing ACT exam fees wisely, you can approach the test confidently and maximize your score potential. Thorough preparation in each section of the ACT builds a strong foundation for meeting college admission requirements and can make you a competitive candidate for top programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the average ACT cut off for top universities?
The average ACT cut off for top universities is usually above 35. However, this can vary significantly depending on the institution.
How does the ACT cut off differ from college to college?
Each college sets its own ACT cut off based on various factors, including academic rigor and applicant pools. Therefore, it’s essential to research the specific ACT cut off for the schools you are interested in.
Are there different cut-offs for in-state and out-of-state applicants?
Yes, many state universities have different ACT cut off scores for in-state and out-of-state applicants, often favoring in-state residents with lower cut-off requirements.
How are ACT fees structured for international students?
Due to additional processing costs, ACT exam fees can be higher for international students than for domestic students. Therefore, it’s essential to check the specific fee structure to budget accordingly.
Does the ACT syllabus change often?
The ACT exam syllabus does not change frequently; however, it’s a good idea to stay updated with any announcements regarding adjustments to the ACT exam syllabus to ensure your preparation aligns with current standards.
