ACT Score Calculator
Calculate your ACT composite score from section scores
Quick Examples
Your ACT Composite Score
Percentile:
English
Math
Reading
Science
Raw Average
Before rounding
Strongest Section
Score:
Focus Area
Score:
Score Scale
ACT Score Levels
| Level | Score Range | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
Calculation Steps
Add all section scores:
+ + + =
Divide by 4 (number of sections):
÷ 4 =
Round to nearest whole number:
→
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About ACT Score Calculator
What is the ACT?
The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. It measures high school students' academic readiness for college across four main areas: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science.
How ACT Scoring Works
The ACT uses a unique scoring system:
- Section Scores: Each of the four sections (English, Math, Reading, Science) is scored on a scale of 1 to 36
- Composite Score: The composite score is calculated as the average of your four section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number
The Formula
Composite Score = (English + Math + Reading + Science) ÷ 4
Rounding Rules
- Scores ending in .5 or higher round up
- Scores ending in less than .5 round down
Example Calculation
- English: 28
- Math: 30
- Reading: 26
- Science: 28
- Average: (28 + 30 + 26 + 28) ÷ 4 = 28.0
- Composite Score: 28
ACT Score Percentiles (2024)
| Composite Score | Percentile | Level |
|---|---|---|
| 36 | 99%+ | Perfect |
| 34-35 | 99% | Exceptional |
| 30-33 | 93-98% | Excellent |
| 27-29 | 85-92% | Above Average |
| 24-26 | 73-84% | Average |
| 21-23 | 53-72% | Below Average |
| 18-20 | 34-52% | Low |
| 1-17 | 1-33% | Very Low |
Good ACT Scores by Goal
| Goal | Target Score |
|---|---|
| Ivy League Schools | 34+ |
| Top 50 Universities | 30+ |
| Most State Universities | 24+ |
| Community Colleges | 18+ |
| National Average | 20.8 |
Tips for Improving Your ACT Score
- Take Practice Tests: Use official ACT practice tests under timed conditions
- Focus on Weak Areas: After each practice test, analyze which sections need the most improvement
- Learn the Format: Each section has a specific format and common question types
- Time Management: Practice pacing yourself to complete each section
- Answer Every Question: There's no penalty for wrong answers on the ACT
Frequently Asked Questions
What's a good ACT score?
A "good" score depends on your goals. The national average is around 20-21. Scores of 24+ are considered above average, and 30+ is excellent.
How many times can I take the ACT?
You can take the ACT up to 12 times total. Many students take it 2-3 times to improve their scores.
Do colleges superscore the ACT?
Many colleges accept a "superscore" - your highest score from each section across multiple test dates. Check with your target schools for their policies.
What is the optional Writing section?
The ACT Writing test is an optional 40-minute essay section scored separately on a scale of 2-12. It does not affect your composite score.
Note: ACT scoring may change. Starting in 2025, the composite score calculation for online tests will be based on English, Math, and Reading only, with Science scored separately.