ACT Score Calculator
Convert your raw ACT test scores into scaled scores and calculate your composite ACT score with our easy-to-use calculator. Understand what your ACT score means for college admissions.
Calculate Your ACT Score Calculator
Enter the number of questions you answered correctly on each section of the ACT.
Note: This calculator provides an approximate conversion from raw to scaled scores based on typical ACT scoring patterns. Actual official ACT score conversions may vary slightly based on the specific test form and date.
What is the ACT Test?
The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. It measures high school students' readiness for college-level work and provides colleges with a common data point for comparing applicants. The ACT consists of four main sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, with an optional Writing section.
Understanding ACT Scoring
ACT scoring involves two key components:
- Raw Scores: These are simply the number of questions you answer correctly in each section. There is no penalty for wrong answers, so your raw score equals the number of correct responses.
- Scaled Scores: Raw scores are converted to scaled scores ranging from 1 to 36 for each of the four main sections. This conversion accounts for slight variations in difficulty across different test forms.
- Composite Score: This is the average of your four scaled section scores (English, Math, Reading, and Science), rounded to the nearest whole number. The Composite Score also ranges from 1 to 36.
ACT Test Format
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Limit | Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | 75 questions | 45 minutes | Grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, rhetorical skills |
| Math | 60 questions | 60 minutes | Pre-algebra, elementary algebra, intermediate algebra, coordinate geometry, plane geometry, trigonometry |
| Reading | 40 questions | 35 minutes | Reading comprehension of various passages |
| Science | 40 questions | 35 minutes | Interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving |
| Writing (Optional) | 1 essay | 40 minutes | Essay writing based on a prompt |
Interpreting Your ACT Scores
Understanding what your ACT scores mean is important for college applications:
- National Average: The average ACT Composite score is typically around 20-21.
- Competitive Scores: Scores of 24+ are generally considered good, 28+ very good, and 30+ excellent.
- Highly Selective Colleges: Top-tier universities often look for scores of 30+, with the most elite institutions seeing average scores of 33-36.
- Percentiles: Your score report includes percentile rankings that show how you performed relative to other test-takers.
ACT vs. SAT: Key Differences
While both the ACT and SAT are accepted by virtually all U.S. colleges, they have some notable differences:
- Science Section: The ACT includes a dedicated Science section, which the SAT does not have.
- Math: The ACT allows calculator use throughout the Math section, while the SAT has calculator and no-calculator portions.
- Math Content: The ACT includes more advanced math concepts, including trigonometry.
- Time Pressure: The ACT generally gives less time per question, creating more time pressure.
- Scoring: The ACT scores from 1-36, while the SAT scores from 400-1600.
Tips for ACT Success
- Start Early: Begin preparation at least 3-6 months before your test date.
- Take Practice Tests: Familiarize yourself with the format and timing by taking full-length practice tests.
- Focus on Weaknesses: Identify your weak areas and dedicate more study time to them.
- Learn Test Strategies: Develop specific strategies for each section, such as skimming passages in the Reading section.
- Manage Your Time: Practice pacing yourself as the ACT is known for its time constraints.
- Consider Retaking: Many students improve their scores on the second attempt after learning from their first experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A "good" ACT score depends on the colleges you're applying to. Generally, the national average is around 20-21. Scores above 24 are considered good, above 28 very good, and above 30 excellent. For highly selective colleges, aim for 30+ (top 5% of test-takers). For Ivy League and other elite institutions, average scores are typically 33-36. Always research the middle 50% range of scores for your target schools to set appropriate goals.
The ACT scoring process works as follows:
- First, your raw score for each section is calculated by counting the number of correct answers. There's no penalty for wrong answers.
- These raw scores are converted to scaled scores from 1-36 for each section.
- Your Composite score is the average of the four main section scores (English, Math, Reading, and Science), rounded to the nearest whole number.
- If you take the optional Writing test, you'll receive a separate score on a scale of 2-12 that doesn't affect your Composite score.
Most students take the ACT in spring of their junior year and again in fall of their senior year if needed. This timing allows you to receive your scores before college application deadlines while having accumulated most of the academic knowledge tested. The ACT is offered seven times per year (in February, April, June, July, September, October, and December). Consider your academic schedule and application deadlines when choosing a test date, and leave time for a potential retake if necessary.
Most students benefit from taking the ACT 2-3 times. Research shows that more than 50% of students who retake the ACT improve their scores. However, diminishing returns typically set in after the third attempt. Most colleges consider your highest score or use "superscoring" (taking your highest score from each section across multiple tests). That said, some highly selective schools may see all your scores, so don't take the test unprepared. If you're satisfied with your score and it's competitive for your target schools, there's no need to retake the test.
Key differences between the ACT and SAT include:
- The ACT has a Science section, while the SAT does not
- The ACT Math section allows calculator use throughout; the SAT has a no-calculator portion
- The ACT includes more advanced math concepts including trigonometry
- The ACT gives less time per question than the SAT
- The ACT scores from 1-36, while the SAT scores from 400-1600
- The ACT has an optional essay; the SAT eliminated its essay section in 2021
Many students take practice tests for both to see which one better showcases their strengths.
No, most colleges that previously required standardized tests now have test-optional or test-flexible policies, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. "Test-optional" means you can choose whether to submit scores, while "test-flexible" means you can submit various tests or alternative credentials. However, strong test scores can still strengthen your application at test-optional schools. Some scholarships may still require test scores even if the college itself doesn't. Research the specific requirements for each college and scholarship you're interested in.
To improve your ACT score:
- Take a diagnostic practice test to identify weak areas
- Create a study plan focusing on your weakest sections
- Use official ACT prep materials and practice tests
- Learn and practice test-taking strategies specific to each section
- Work on improving your time management during the test
- Consider a prep course or private tutor if you need more structured help
- Review mistakes from practice tests to understand your error patterns
- Build your academic foundations in the subjects tested
Consistent practice over time (ideally 3-6 months) typically yields better results than cramming.
Superscoring is the practice of combining your highest section scores from different test dates to create a new, higher composite score. For example, if you scored 28 English, 24 Math, 26 Reading, and 25 Science on your first attempt, and then 26 English, 27 Math, 25 Reading, and 26 Science on your second attempt, your superscore would be 28 English, 27 Math, 26 Reading, and 26 Science, for a composite superscore of 27 (versus original composite scores of 26 and 26). Many colleges superscore the ACT, but policies vary, so check with each institution. The ACT also now offers an official superscore report that you can send to colleges.
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