ACT Score

ACT, is a standardized examination for international candidates who want to be accepted to US—or Canadian-based colleges. It is a computer-based, multiple-choice examination that tests your skills in science, maths, English, and reading, and writing is an optional section.

ACT scores range between 1 to 36, which is an average of the four sections and is supervised by ACT Inc. Scoring above the average means you are a strong applicant. A high score means your college choices are greater. However, before you register for the test, it is important to check the details and ACT score criteria of your preferred institution.

ACT Exam: An Overview

Why take an ACT test?

• It is a standardized test, which is often mandatory in most reputed institutions.
• ACTs prove your college readiness.
• The ACT scores give an idea to the institutions about your efficiency in subjects like math, science, or English.
• High ACT scores will improve your chance of a 100% scholarship.
• Even though ACT scores are optional in many institutions, a high score nevertheless makes your application stand out.
• It is not an IQ or aptitude test but is based on classroom learning. Thus, most college aspirants find ACTs more comfortable.

ACT 2024 Eligibility

This exam is accessible to a wider section of students due to its lenient eligibility criteria. Here are a few pointers:

• The aspirant must be above 13 years, below which they’ll need parental consent.
• Only high school students are eligible to take the ACT.
• Examinees can opt for the test any number of times.

What are good ACT scores?

A “good” ACT score varies depending on your goals and the colleges you’re targeting.

Here is an overview of the ACT score range:

Subject-wise Benchmarks:

• English: 27–31
• Math: 26–30
• Reading: 28–32
• Science: 26–30.

Scores between 1 and 16 indicate that your performance can improve. If you score between 17 to 24, that indicates your performance is at par with your peers. With this score, you can get into the less competitive institutions. Any score above 24 shows exceptional performance and guarantees a seat in top, reputed colleges.

How ACT Scores are Calculated?

ACT scores are calculated by the following steps:

Step 1: The number of correctly answered questions is counted. There is no negative marking for wrong answers.

Step 2: The raw score of each strand is converted to a ‘scale score’.

Step 3: Fractions are rounded up to their nearest value.

Step 4: Composite scores are calculated, which is the average of all four sections.

ACT Examination structure

Subject-wise subsections

Reporting dates of your ACT Score

Here’s the reporting timeframe for 2024-25 ACT scores

Fee Structure of ACT Test

Additional fees

There are certain additional aspects an examinee needs to know:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the ACT available online?

Yes, ACT tests are available online starting in the spring 2024 session. They are available at selective locations. You can check the list from the official ACT website.  

What items are not allowed in ACTs?

Gadgets like phones, smart watches, recording devices, Wifi, or internet-based communication gadgets are strictly prohibited. Reading materials like textbooks, dictionaries, papers, notes, etc. are also not allowed. You can not bring any tobacco to the exam center. You can only bring permissible calculators. 

Do ACTs have any age limit?

No, there is no age restriction for taking this test. It is usually taken by high school students above grade 10 to secure a place in their dream college. Additionally, any examinee can opt for ACTs as many times as they require. 

Can ACT results get canceled?

Yes, ACT Inc. can cancel scores if they’re found invalid, or if it is a compromised score. 

How long are ACT scores valid?

ACT scores are valid for a period of 5 years from the test date.