I've given the ACT a shot and now I'm waiting for my scores. I'd like to know how they're calculated. Can anyone breakdown the method so I'm familiar with how my results were determined? Appreciate the help in advance!
Sure, I'd be happy to break down how ACT scores are calculated!
The ACT is divided into four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. You'll receive a raw score for each section, which simply represents the number of questions you answered correctly in that section. The maximum raw score varies by section: English has 75 questions, Math has 60, and Reading and Science each have 40.
These raw scores are then converted to scaled scores, through a process called equating. This is how ACT ensures scores are comparable across different test dates, and that a 30 in Math, for example, represents the same level of achievement whether you took the test in October or December. The scaled score ranges from 1 to 36 for each section.
Now, to get your composite ACT score. Your four scaled section scores (English, Math, Reading, and Science) are simply averaged and then rounded to the nearest whole number to achieve this composite score. So, if your scaled scores for English, Math, Reading, and Science are 23, 24, 25, and 26 respectively, your composite score would be the average of these four numbers, which would be 24.5, rounded to the nearest whole number gives a composite score of 25.
Remember that each college may weigh your ACT scores differently during their admissions process. Some colleges may look at your composite score, while others may consider your individual section scores more closely, especially if you're applying to a program where certain skills are more important.
Last but not least, keep in mind that while standardized test scores like the ACT are an important component of your application, colleges look at many other factors including your GPA, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and personal essays when evaluating your candidacy.
I hope that helps! Feel free to ask further questions if you have any.
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