ACT Score Calculator
Calculate your estimated ACT composite score. Enter your correct answers for each section to see your specific section scores and total composite rating.
English
75 Questions
Math
60 Questions
Reading
40 Questions
Science
40 Questions
Your Predicted ACT Score
Section Breakdown (1-36)
The Comprehensive Guide to ACT Scoring (1-36 Scale)
The ACT (American College Testing) remains a dominant factor in college admissions, known for its straightforward questions but intense time pressure. Unlike the SAT's adaptive format, the ACT is a linear, paper-based (or digital in some districts) speed test covering four distinct subjects: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Our ACT Score Calculator allows you to input your raw scores for each section to predict your Composite Score—the average that colleges see.
Understanding the Composite Score
Your ACT Composite Score is the average of your four section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number.
- Scale: Each section is scored from 1 to 36.
- Rounding Rule: A 29.5 rounds up to a 30. A 29.25 rounds down to a 29.
- Writing Score: If you take the optional Writing test, it is scored separately (2-12) and does not affect your Composite Score.
Section-by-Section Breakdown
1. English (45 Mins | 75 Questions): Speed is key. You have ~36 seconds per question. It tests grammar, punctuation, and rhetorical skills. It is the easiest section to improve with study.
2. Math (60 Mins | 60 Questions): The only section with 5 answer choices. Covers Pre-Algebra through Trigonometry. Questions generally get harder as you go.
3. Reading (35 Mins | 40 Questions): Four passages (Prose Fiction, Social Science, Humanities, Natural Science). Requires rapid reading and fact-finding.
4. Science (35 Mins | 40 Questions): Not a science fact test—it's a data analysis test. You must interpret graphs, tables, and experimental summaries quickly.
3 Strategies to Boost Your ACT Score
1. Answer Every Question
There is no penalty for guessing on the ACT. Never leave a bubble blank. If you have 1 minute left and 5 questions, pick a "Letter of the Day" (e.g., B/G) and fill them all in.
2. Science: Don't Read Everything
In the Science section, go straight to the questions first. Then look at the graphs/charts to find the data. Only read the introductory text if the graphs don't answer the question. This saves massive amounts of time.
3. English: "Short is Sweet"
On the English section, the shortest answer is often the correct one (if it's grammatically correct). The ACT hates redundancy. If an answer choice repeats information, it's likely wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a good ACT score?
The national average is ~20. A 24+ is solid for state universities. A 30+ is highly competitive (top 5-7%). A 34+ is Ivy League territory (top 1%).
Is the Writing (Essay) required?
Almost never. Very few colleges require the optional ACT writing section anymore. Unless a specific program you are applying to demands it, you can likely skip it.
ACT vs SAT: Which is easier?
The ACT is faster-paced but the questions are often more straightforward. The SAT gives you more time per question but the questions can be trikier. Students strong in reading charts/graphs often prefer the ACT (Science section).
Do colleges Superscore the ACT?
Yes, many do! A "Superscore" is the average of your best English, best Math, best Reading, and best Science scores across multiple test dates. This allows you to focus on bringing up one specific section at a time.
Can I use a calculator on the Science section?
No. Calculators are allowed only on the Math section. You must do any simple arithmetic in Science in your head or on scratch paper.
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