How ACT Scoring Works: The Basics

The ACT has four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. For each section, your raw score (the number of correct answers) is converted to a scaled score from 1 to 36. Your composite score is the average of these four section scores. The optional Writing section is scored separately and doesn't affect your composite. For official details, visit the ACT.org scoring page.

How to Calculate Your ACT Score (Step-by-Step)

Count correct answers per section: This is your raw score for English, Math, Reading, and Science.
Convert to scaled scores: Use an ACT score conversion chart (like the official sample on ACT.org) to map your raw score to a scaled score from 1 to 36 for each section.
Average your scaled scores: Add the four section scores and divide by 4. Round to the nearest whole number for your composite score.
Understand superscoring: Many colleges will superscore your ACT by taking the highest section scores from multiple test dates to create a new, higher composite score.

How ACT Scores Impact Your Admissions Timeline

Knowing your ACT scores early gives you time to plan for retakes before key application and scholarship deadlines. The Orbit AI Timeline Planner helps you map out tests and retakes across the admissions calendar, and the Right Fit Matcher can identify schools that align with your score range. For more on timing, see our ACT Test Dates Guide.

Superscoring: What Parents & Students Should Know

Superscoring allows students to improve individual section scores through retakes. Since policies vary by college, it's crucial to understand where your top-choice schools stand. This strategic insight is why planning is key. If you're unsure which test to focus on, our SAT vs. ACT Comparison Guide can help.

ACT Scoring FAQ

How is the ACT scored?

Each of the four main sections is scaled from 1 to 36. Your composite score is the average of those four scores. The optional Writing section receives a separate score.

What is a good ACT score?

A "good" score depends on your target colleges. The national average is around 20-21, but selective colleges often look for scores in the high 20s or 30s.

How does superscoring work?

Colleges that superscore will take your highest section scores across all your test dates and combine them to create a new, higher composite score.

How can I use my ACT score to build a college list?

The Orbit AI Right Fit Matcher helps you find schools where your ACT score is competitive, allowing you to build a realistic and personalized college list.

Last updated: June 2024.