Decoding Your ACT Scores: A Guide to Understanding Your Results
May 22, 2024
The ACT is such an important test to students. It plays such a pivotal in their future that most of us can’t even imagine what pressure today’s students face when taking this test. Their test score determines their path for college, and that is a huge amount of pressure for them to have on their shoulders.
One of the crucial aspects for being successful on the ACT is to interpret your scores and understanding what your score actually means. Understanding these scores not only provides insight into your academic strengths but also helps you make informed decisions about college admissions and your future.
In this blog post, we dive into how to interpret your ACT scores effectively to reach that goal score and get into your college of choice.
If you’ve taken the ACT, you know that it is made up 4 subject tests: English, Math, Reading, and Science, with the Writing test as optional. Each of these subject tests are scored on a scale from 1 to 36. All of the subject test scores are averaged together to create your composite score, which also is on a scale from 1 to 36.
Some of the subject test scores are averaged together to create a specific score—like for STEM and ELA—which you will notice on your score report. Your STEM score is an average of your Math and Science scores and can show colleges whether or not you are ready to pursue a math or science degree; sometimes, your STEM score will even help you get into a college program that has a heavy STEM focus. Your ELA score is an average of your English, Reading, and Writing score—you will only have an ELA score if you took the optional Writing test; your ELA score can help get into certain Language Arts programs in college. Your STEM and ELA score are not as important as your subject test scores and your composite; it really depends upon your intended major and programs that you want to enroll in at your college of choice as to whether your STEM or ELA score would play a role in your acceptance.
Welcome to the Test Prep Plus Podcast, where we discuss today's key test prep topics to help students and parents on their test prep journey. I’m your host, Amy Erdiales, owner and instructor at U-Prep Test Prep. I created this online test prep company to provide solutions for every student. Each week, I bring you the most important topics I see students and parents struggling with. Join me as we navigate the maze of test prep together, exploring key strategies, debunking myths, and uncovering effective solutions to help you conquer the ACT and SAT with confidence.
Today, we’re diving into how to interpret your ACT scores. Understanding your scores is crucial because it can influence your college admissions and scholarships. Let’s break down the process step-by-step.
Breaking Down the ACT
The ACT consists of four tests: English, Math, Reading, and Science, plus an optional Writing test. Each test is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, and your composite score is the average of your English, Math, Reading, and Science scores. This composite score is often what colleges use to assess your readiness.
Detailed Breakdown of Each Test
English Test: This measures your understanding of English conventions, such as grammar rules (especially commas), word choice, clear and concise writing, voice, tone, and attitude. Your score is based on the number of correct answers out of 75 questions, converted via a raw score table.
Math Test: This tests your mathematical reasoning skills, content ability, and problem-solving skills. It consists of 60 questions, and like the English test, uses a raw score table to determine your final score.
Reading Test: This evaluates your comprehension abilities through four passages. The reading and science tests are the easiest to improve your score on, as each correct answer increases your score by one point.
Science Test: Despite its name, this test focuses on your interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills rather than specific scientific knowledge. It consists of 40 questions, similar to the reading test in terms of scoring.
Interpreting Your Composite Score
Your main score, the composite score, is what colleges primarily look at to determine if you are college-ready. The national average ACT score is around 20, but each college has its own average scores for admission. It’s important to research the average ACT scores of the colleges you’re applying to ensure your score meets their requirements.
Understanding Super Scores
Super scores are the highest scores from each section across multiple test attempts. While not all colleges officially use super scores for admission, they can influence placement decisions and sometimes even admissions.
Section Scores and Benchmarks
Your score report will break down your performance in specific content areas within each test. Focus on areas where you did not meet the benchmark scores, as these indicate readiness for college-level courses. The benchmarks are:
English: 18
Math: 22
Reading: 22
Science: 23
Making a Plan
If your scores aren’t where you want them to be, consider retaking the ACT. Utilize resources like the ACT Blueprint Guide to understand the content areas better, and consider enrolling in a prep course to boost your scores. Additionally, focus on enhancing other components of your college application, such as GPA, essays, extracurricular activities, and recommendation letters.
Next Steps
Retake the ACT if Necessary: Check upcoming test dates and registration deadlines.
Utilize Prep Resources: Consider courses like our ACT Review It course for guided practice and review.
Research College Policies: Understand the test score requirements and policies of your target colleges.
Strengthen Other Application Components: Ensure your overall application is strong by working on your GPA, essays, extracurriculars, and recommendation letters.
Final Thoughts
Interpreting your ACT score is a valuable step in your college preparation journey. It provides clarity and helps you make informed decisions about your future. Remember, the ACT is just one part of your application. If you don’t achieve your goal score initially, don’t get discouraged. Use the resources available to you, set realistic expectations, and keep striving towards your goals.
Good luck on your test prep journey, and until next time, keep working hard and stay confident!
