Let the ACT score trends at your dream schools be your motivation and help you set a realistic target. For reference, the national average ACT score in 2024 was 19.9, meaning a score between 18 and 20 could make you college-ready.1 However, competitive colleges often expect higher scores. The score ranges for students admitted to mid-tier and top-tier schools are typically well above that average.
Here's a look at 30 colleges where you'll need an above-average ACT score to stay competitive:
| Name of College | Score Range | Name of College | Score Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 35-36 | Washington and Lee University | 32-34 |
| Harvard College | 34-36 | College of William and Mary | 32-34 |
| Duke University | 34-35 | Georgia Institute of Technology | 31-35 |
| Vanderbilt University | 34-35 | University of Michigan | 31-34 |
| Johns Hopkins University | 34-35 | Boston University | 31-34 |
| Columbia University | 34-35 | George Washington University | 30-33 |
| Washington University in St. Louis | 33-35 | Babson College | 30-33 |
| Princeton University | 33-35 | Trinity University | 29-33 |
| Yale University | 33-35 | Rhode Island School of Design | 29-33 |
| Northeastern University | 33-35 | Florida State University | 26-31 |
| Middlebury College | 33-35 | Texas Christian University | 26-31 |
| Amherst College | 33-35 | North Carolina State University | 24-31 |
| Hamilton College | 33-34 | The College of New Jersey | 24-30 |
| University of Notre Dame | 32-35 | Southwestern University | 24-30 |
| Georgetown University | 32-35 | University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma | 19-24 |
* Source1
How to Set Your Target ACT Score
To create a focused, effective study plan that aligns with your academic goals and helps you reach a target ACT score, you'll want to:
- List the Colleges of Your Choice
- Common, coalition application or QuestBridge application
- Supplementary extracurricular material
- High school GPA
- Princeton-specific questions
- Counselor and teacher recommendations
- Graded written paper
- Writing supplement
- Secondary school transcript
- Extra- and co-curricular involvements, talents, and leadership
- Check Admission Requirements
- Determine Your Target Score
Start by listing the schools you're considering. Consider location, tuition, available programs, campus facilities, and reputation. Organizing this information in a worksheet can make comparing your options easier.
Here's an example of what your worksheet might look like:
| List of Prospective Colleges | ||
|---|---|---|
| College Name | Average ACT Score Range | Admission Requirements |
| Duke University | 34-35 | |
| Princeton University | 33-35 | |
| Amherst College | 33-35 | |
| My Target Score | 35 | |
Note: The above table is just a glimpse of the in-depth admission process and doesn't display all the admission requirements of the colleges. Please visit the official website of the colleges for complete information.
Every college has its own ACT score expectations. While some schools admit students with scores lower than their class average, they may still expect your score to stand out compared to others at your high school. Check the official website of your prospective colleges for detailed admissions criteria and update your worksheet with this information.
Once your worksheet is complete, it's time to set your target score. Be realistic about the time you have to study. Use your first practice test score as a baseline. For example, if Princeton University's admitted students typically score between 33 and 35, you'll want to aim for at least a 33 to stay competitive. Falling below this range could make it harder to stand out unless you have exceptional qualifications elsewhere.
How to Create a Study Plan
Start studying early and stick to a schedule. This will help you feel prepared and confident when test day arrives. Here's how to get started:
Understand the Test Format
Familiarize yourself with the test's structure, question types, key concepts, and scoring guidelines. You can reduce test-day anxiety when you know what to expect.
Develop a Study Schedule
Set aside regular study time to cover all the test sections. Create practical goals that match your strengths and areas for improvement. A good plan is one you can stick to.
Practice Regularly
Consistent practice is key. Find test prep that offers thousands of exam-like questions. Take full-length practice tests and identify where you’re struggling. Focus your efforts on those areas to see steady improvement.
Manage Your Time
Time management can make or break your score. When practicing, simulate real test conditions to get used to pacing yourself. If you’re stuck on a question, skip it and return to it later to avoid losing valuable time.
Familiarize yourself with the test's structure, question types, key concepts, and scoring guidelines. You can reduce test-day anxiety when you know what to expect.
Set aside regular study time to cover all the test sections. Create practical goals that match your strengths and areas for improvement. A good plan is one you can stick to.
Consistent practice is key. Find test prep that offers thousands of exam-like questions. Take full-length practice tests and identify where you’re struggling. Focus your efforts on those areas to see steady improvement.
Time management can make or break your score. When practicing, simulate real test conditions to get used to pacing yourself. If you’re stuck on a question, skip it and return to it later to avoid losing valuable time.
If you're unsure how to create a schedule, check out our ACT study guide for tips on maximizing your time and staying on track.
What Is a Good ACT Math Score?
In 2024, the national average ACT Math score was 19.4. Scoring above this benchmark means you’re performing better than the average test-taker in math proficiency.2
While this is a great starting point, what qualifies as a "good" ACT Math score depends on your goals and the expectations of the colleges on your list. For competitive schools, you’ll likely need a score well above the national average to stand out.
| Year | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average National ACT Math Score | 19.0 | 19.3 | 19.9 | 20.2 | 19.4 |
How to Improve Your ACT Math Score
Follow these steps to improve your ACT Math score:
- Learn the Formulas: Instead of just memorizing formulas, focus on understanding the concepts behind them. Knowing why a formula works makes it easier to remember and apply it on test day.
- Know Your Calculator: Stick to the calculator you’ve been using during practice. Avoid trying a new one on test day. You don't want to waste time figuring out unfamiliar functions during the exam.
What Is a Good ACT English Score?
In 2024, the national average ACT English score was 19.0. Scoring above this benchmark means you're performing better than the average test-taker in English proficiency.
In most cases, a score of 25 or above (out of 36) is considered strong.2 However, check the ranges for your target schools to ensure your score aligns with their admission standards.
| Year | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average National ACT English Score | 19.9 | 19.6 | 19.0 | 18.6 | 19.0 |
How to Improve Your ACT English Score
Follow these steps to improve your ACT English score:
- Review Grammar Rules: Focus on key grammar concepts such as subject-verb agreement, punctuation, modifiers, idioms, verb tenses, and pronoun-antecedent agreement. Reviewing these rules will help you spot common errors and improve your sentence structure.
- Learn from Your Mistakes: After taking practice tests, review your answers carefully to identify patterns in your mistakes. If you're struggling with certain rules, consider using high-quality prep resources to strengthen your understanding.
What Is a Good ACT Reading Score?
In 2024, the national average ACT Reading score was 20.5. Scoring above this benchmark means you're performing better than the average test-taker in reading proficiency.
Research the average ACT Reading scores at your target colleges to see how your score compares. Most college websites or admissions materials provide this information, making it easier to gauge where you stand and set a realistic, achievable goal.
| Year | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average National ACT Reading Score | 21.2 | 20.9 | 20.4 | 20.1 | 20.5 |
How to Improve Your ACT Reading Score
Follow these steps to improve your ACT Reading score:
- Practice Reading Regularly: Read a variety of fiction and nonfiction to strengthen your comprehension skills. Practice summarizing passages, pinpointing the main idea, and analyzing the author’s arguments. This will prepare you for the types of questions you’ll encounter on the test.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Make a habit of learning new words every day. Use tools including flashcards, vocabulary apps, or study lists of prefixes, suffixes, and root words. A stronger vocabulary will help you interpret passages more effectively and tackle questions that focus on word meanings.
What Is a Good ACT Science Score?
In 2024, the national average ACT Science score was 20.0. Scoring above this benchmark means you’re performing better than the average test-taker in science proficiency.
Research the average of admitted students at your prospective colleges to find your target score. Many schools provide this information on their websites, or you can contact admissions offices for specific details. Knowing where you stand will help you set realistic goals and focus your preparation.2
| Year | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average National ACT Science Score | 20.6 | 20.4 | 19.9 | 19.6 | 20.0 |
How to Improve Your ACT Science Score
Follow these steps to improve your ACT Science score:
- Get Comfortable With Graphs and Charts: Much of the ACT Science section involves interpreting graphs and charts. Practice analyzing trends, identifying patterns, and translating information. Use resources such as textbooks, online tools, or scientific publications to sharpen these skills.
- Master Time Management: You'll need to tackle 7 passages and 40 questions in just 35 minutes. Aim to spend about 30 seconds per question, leaving extra time at the end to review your answers. Practice pacing yourself with timed drills to build confidence for test day.
What Is a Good ACT Writing Score?
The ACT Writing section is scored on a scale of 2 to 12 across 4 domains: Ideas and Analysis, Development and Support, Organization, and Language Use and Conventions. A strong score reflects your ability to generate ideas, provide logical reasoning, structure your essay effectively, and use language with clarity.
Aiming for a score between 8 and 12 in each domain demonstrates strong writing skills and critical thinking.
How to Improve Your ACT Writing Score
Follow these steps to improve your ACT Writing score:
- Plan and Organize Your Essay: Before diving into the writing, take a few minutes to outline your ideas. Decide on your main points, the order in which you’ll present them, and how you’ll structure your essay. A clear plan will make your writing more focused and coherent.
- Develop the Essay With Specific Examples: Support your arguments with detailed examples that illustrate your points. Strong examples show that you understand the topic and can think critically about the prompt.
Factors Affecting a Good ACT Score
Several key factors can influence your ACT score. Here's what you should keep in mind:
- High School Curriculum: The ACT is designed to reflect the material taught in a typical high school curriculum. If your classes thoroughly cover the test's subjects, you'll have a strong foundation to excel.
- Studying habits: Consistent, focused studying can make a big difference. Use effective study methods, get plenty of sleep, and manage your time wisely. A solid study routine is essential for staying on track.
- Test-taking strategies: It's crucial to have a game plan for test day. Guess strategically if you're unsure of an answer, manage your time effectively, and review your responses if time allows.
- Quality preparation: Start early and stick to a routine. Use high-quality prep materials and take plenty of practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam and identify areas to improve.
Curious about why ACT scores matter? Check out our blog: How Your ACT Score Impacts Your College Admissions.
What Happens If You Get a Low ACT Score?
A low ACT score isn't the end of the road. It's just a starting point. Remember, what qualifies as a "bad" score varies depending on your goals and the admissions criteria of your target colleges. If your score falls below your expectations or the average for your preferred schools, here are steps you can take to turn things around:
- Retake the Test: Many students improve their scores by taking the ACT multiple times. If your initial score doesn't meet your goals, consider retaking the test with a stronger study plan.
- Focus on Preparation: Invest in quality prep resources. Whether it's an ACT course or online tools, targeted preparation can improve your understanding of the material and overall score.
- Analyze Your Performance: Break down your performance to pinpoint strengths and weaknesses. Knowing where you need improvement will help you focus your study efforts and develop strategies for specific question types.
- Research Score Cancellation Policies: In certain cases, you might be able to cancel your scores if you feel the test didn't go well. However, some colleges consider your highest score across all attempts, so think carefully before canceling.
- Consider Test-Optional Colleges: With more colleges adopting test-optional policies, you may apply to schools where submitting your ACT score isn't required. This lets you highlight other strengths, such as your GPA, essays, and extracurriculars.
- Seek Guidance: Reach out to your school counselor or a college advisor. They can guide you through retesting strategies, recommend resources, and help you explore alternative pathways to your goals.
A low ACT score doesn't define you. Take proactive steps, learn from the experience, and focus on improving for your next attempt. Every test is an opportunity to grow and move closer to your goals. By following the above strategies, you'll understand how to improve ACT score across all sections and boost your confidence ahead of test day.
References
- ACT. (n.d.). National ranks. Retrieved November 18, 2024, from https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/scores/national-ranks.html
- Quad Education Group. (n.d.). Understanding your ACT score: Average, good, and highest ACT scores. Retrieved November 18, 2024, from https://www.quadeducationgroup.com/blog/understanding-your-act-score-average-good-highest-act-scores
- ACT. (n.d.). The ACT writing test. Retrieved November 18, 2024, from https://www.act.org/content/dam/act/unsecured/documents/TheACTWritingTest.pdf
- Fewer High School Seniors Ready for College as ACT Scores Continue to Decline. (2023, October 10). ACT. Retrieved February 13, 2024, from https://leadershipblog.act.org/2023/10/act-scores-decline.html
- Update To Testing Policy. (2024, February 8). Dartmouth Admissions. https://admissions.dartmouth.edu/apply/update-testing-policy
- Average ACT Score Declines For Sixth Year In A Row. (2023, October 13). Forbes. Retrieved February 15, 2024 from https://www.forbes.com/sites/christopherrim/2023/10/13/average-act-score-declines-for-sixth-year-in-a-row/?sh=7361c12c6f56
- Average ACT Score For the High School Class of 2022 Declines to Lowest Level in More Than 30 Years. (2022, October 12). Retrieved February 15, 2024 from https://leadershipblog.act.org/2022/10/GradClassRelease2022.html
- Average ACT scores and percentage of graduates taking the ACT, by state: 2016 and 2020. N.d. National Center for Education Statistics. Retrieved February 15, 2024 from https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d20/tables/dt20_226.60.asp
- ACT Research Explains New ACT® Test Writing Scores and Their Relationship to Other Test Scores. (2016). Retrieved February 15, 2024 from https://www.act.org/content/dam/act/unsecured/documents/Research-Letter-about-ACT-Writing.pdf
- Five Year Trends—Average ACT Scores Nationwide. n.d. ACT.org. Retrieved February 15, 2024 from https://www.act.org/content/dam/act/unsecured/documents/2023-National-ACT-Profile-Report.pdf
- ACT Test Scores: Writing. n.d. Retrieved February 15, 2024 from https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/scores/writing-test-scores.html
