What qualifies as a “good” score on the ACT depends on the goals of each particular student, the average scores required by their top choice of college or university, and the overall strength of a student’s application. In general, students are advised to aim for a composite score of at least 24 (which places you above the 74th percentile/better than ¾ of other test-takers). Keep in mind that a score of 24 may not be considered competitive enough for some schools. 

What is an average ACT score?
The average ACT score changes every year. According to a 2021 ACT report on national norms, the average composite ACT score for the 2020-21 year was 20.7 (calculated using data from 2018-2020). Keep in mind that the effects of COVID-19 make it unwise to compare performance results between 2021 and previous years.

What is a perfect ACT score?
A perfect score on the ACT is a composite score of 36.

Learn more about this issue with our in-depth article exploring What is a Good ACT Score?