ACT Score Calculator
Calculate your estimated ACT score based on the number of correct answers in each section. The ACT composite score (1-36) is the average of your four section scores: English, Math, Reading, and Science.
English Test: 75 questions in 45 minutes
Math Test: 60 questions in 60 minutes
Reading Test: 40 questions in 35 minutes
Science Test: 40 questions in 35 minutes
How is the ACT scored?
The ACT is scored on a scale of 1-36. Each of the four sections (English, Math, Reading, Science) is scored 1-36, and your composite score is the average of these four scores, rounded to the nearest whole number. The optional Writing test is scored separately.
Is there a penalty for wrong answers on the ACT?
No! The ACT has no guessing penalty. You only earn points for correct answers and lose nothing for wrong or blank answers. Always guess if you run out of time or don't know an answer.
What is a good ACT score?
The national average ACT score is around 20-21. A score of 24+ is above average and competitive for many colleges, 28+ is excellent for selective schools, and 32+ is top-tier for Ivy League and elite universities.
How does ACT scoring compare to SAT scoring?
ACT scores of 36, 34, 32, 30, 28, 26, 24, 22, and 20 roughly correspond to SAT scores of 1600, 1520, 1430, 1340, 1260, 1170, 1080, 1000, and 920 respectively. Most colleges accept either test equally.
What is the ACT Science section?
The ACT Science section doesn't test specific science knowledge. It tests your ability to interpret graphs, tables, and experimental results. It's more about reading comprehension and data analysis than memorizing biology or chemistry facts.
How many times should I take the ACT?
Most students take the ACT 2-3 times. Many colleges superscore (use your best scores from each section across all test dates). Taking it multiple times can help you improve your composite score by 2-4 points on average.
What ACT score do I need for college admission?
It varies widely by college. Community colleges typically accept any score, state universities often want 20-24+, competitive schools want 26-30+, and elite universities typically want 32+. Check your target schools' middle 50% score ranges.