Understanding ACT grades

Hey everyone! I'm starting to prepare for the ACT and I was wondering if anyone could explain how the ACT grading system works? Like, what's a good score and how is it calculated?

Hey there! Prepping for the ACT is an important step, so understanding the grading system is essential. Let me break it down for you.

The ACT consists of four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, each scored on a scale of 1-36. After you complete the test, your raw scores (the number of questions answered correctly) in each section will be converted to scaled scores between 1 and 36.

In addition to the individual section scores, you'll also receive a composite score, which is the average of your four section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number. This composite score is what most colleges focus on when evaluating your ACT performance.

A "good" score varies depending on the competitiveness of the colleges you're interested in. However, here are some general benchmarks to give you an idea:

- A composite score of 21 is considered the national average.

- A score of 25-29 is above-average and is typically competitive for many colleges and universities.

- A score of 30-33 is considered very good and makes you a strong candidate at numerous selective schools.

- A score of 34-36 is considered exceptional and can make you a highly competitive candidate at top-tier institutions.

Keep in mind that these are just general benchmarks, and it's essential to research the specific ACT score ranges for the schools you're interested in. Each school has its own expectations, so a good score for one might not be the same as a good score for another.

Lastly, remember that your application's other components, like your extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations, also play a crucial role in college admissions. A strong ACT score can help, but it's just one part of a holistic evaluation process.

Good luck with your test prep and feel free to ask if you have more questions!