ACT Test Scores

Each of the four ACT sections is scored on a scale from 1 to 36. Admissions officers use your composite score (the mean average of your scores for the sections listed above) to judge your academic abilities.

Unlike some other standardised tests, the ACT does not penalise for incorrect answers, so it's worthwhile to answer every question, even if you're not sure.

You can use ACT percentiles to judge your scores in relation to your peers. Percentiles show the percentage of test-takers who scored below your particular score. For example, if you scored in the 75th percentile, it means you performed better than 75% of test-takers.

This information helps colleges rank and compare students, instead of looking at individual scores.

Source: ACT Test Score - National Ranks

What is a good/competitive ACT score?

A ‘good’ ACT score is essentially one that ranks you higher than the majority of your peers. Good scores typically fall within the range of 24 to 30, with an excellent score being anything above 30.

However, what constitutes a good score depends on your expectations and the colleges or universities you're applying to. To maximise your chances of getting into a top college, aim for scores at or above the 75th percentile, which often corresponds to a score of around 24-30.

What is an average ACT score?

The average ACT score varies, but it is usually around 20. And whilst scoring near or above the average is commendable, keep in mind that more selective colleges expect above-average scores. The better your ACT score is, the higher the chance you’ll have of getting into your chosen college.

What is a low ACT score?

A low ACT score is generally considered to be anything below 20. A low score may not necessarily preclude you from getting into college, but it could limit your options, especially if you’re aiming at more competitive institutions.

However, please remember that the ACT is not the be-all and end-all. Your score is just one part of your application, and admissions officers take a holistic view of each applicant. This includes GPAs, extracurriculars, letters of recommendation and personal statements.

So if you want ACT scores that are competitive with other Ivy League applicants, you’ll need to be aiming for a composite score of around 34.

And remember, getting into an Ivy League college requires not only exceptional ACT scores but outstanding extracurriculars and letters of recommendation, too.

ACT scores play a significant role in the college admissions process, serving as a standardised measure of academic achievement. However, they are just one piece of the puzzle. Admissions committees also consider factors such as your GPA, extracurriculars, essays, letters of recommendation, and personal achievements when evaluating your application.

Thus, whilst strong ACT scores can boost your application, they should always be viewed in context. A perfect ACT score does not guarantee you entry to Harvard or Yale.

Generally speaking, US colleges want to see that their applicants are active, well-rounded people. So try to cultivate good relationships in and out of school and involve yourself in additional projects, be they academic or extracurricular.

How many people get a perfect ACT score?

Getting a perfect composite score of 36 on the ACT is extremely difficult but not impossible. On average, less than 1% of students achieve a perfect score each year. And whilst a perfect score would undoubtedly boost your chances of success, it's important to pay close attention to every aspect of your application—not just the ACT.

Are ACT scores used in UK university admissions?

The ACT is more commonly associated with college admissions in the United States, but some universities in the UK may accept ACT scores as part of the application process. The significance of ACT scores in UK admissions will vary depending from university to university. It’s essential to research the specific requirements of each course you're applying to.

When will I receive my ACT test scores in the UK?

In the UK, ACT scores are typically released within two to eight weeks after the test date. For example, if you take the test in April, you can expect to receive your scores by mid to late May.

How can I improve my ACT scores?

Improving your ACT scores requires a lot of hard work, strategy and targeted practice. If you can, consider enrolling in ACT preparation courses, working with a private tutor, or using online resources.

The key to an excellent ACT composite score is to identify areas of weakness and improve them. If your Maths test is lagging behind the others, work the hardest to increase that score; you don’t want one weak area to drag your composite average down.

It’s also crucial to develop effective test-taking strategies, for example with time management. The ACT is a marathon, not a sprint, and with proper timing, you’ll be able to devote equal effort to each section.

Practice tests can be invaluable tools for familiarising yourself with the format and pacing of the exam. Many students fall into the trap of spending too long on one section and then running out of time on another. This type of error could drag your composite average down, so pay close attention to the clock.

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