Whether you’re a high school student looking to apply to college or a recent graduate exploring your career options, the ACT is an essential part of your academic journey. But how long do your ACT scores last, and what implications does that have for your future plans? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the shelf life of ACT scores and what you need to know to make informed decisions about your education and career.
First and foremost, let’s get one thing straight: your ACT scores last forever. That’s right – if you took the test five, ten, or even twenty years ago, those scores are still valid and can be reported to schools and employers. However, there are some important caveats to keep in mind. For one thing, the applicability of your ACT scores may depend on the specific institution or organization you’re applying to. In addition, your scores may become less relevant over time if you’ve taken other tests or acquired additional qualifications that are more recent or relevant to your field.
So, what does this mean for you? Ultimately, the longevity of your ACT scores can be both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it means that you have a valuable resource at your disposal that can help you gain admission to colleges or jobs even years down the road. On the other hand, it also means that you need to consider your ACT scores in the context of your entire academic and professional profile, and be aware of any limitations or shortcomings that may impact your prospects. With this information in mind, you can make the most of your ACT scores and take charge of your academic and career success.
What are ACT Scores?
The ACT is a standardized test that is widely used by colleges and universities in the United States to assess a student’s readiness for college-level work. ACT scores are a reflection of a student’s performance on this test and are used by colleges and universities as a key component in the college application process.
The ACT covers four subject areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning. Each section is scored on a scale of 1-36, with the total ACT score being the average of the four section scores. In addition to the four subject areas, the ACT also includes an optional writing section, which is scored separately from the rest of the exam.
The ACT is scored on a percentile basis, with the score indicating the percentage of test-takers who scored lower than the individual student. For example, a score of 30 on the ACT means that the student scored better than 95% of all test-takers.
How long do ACT scores last?
As a high school student, you might be wondering how long your ACT scores last. The good news is, once you’ve taken the ACT, your scores are valid forever! This means you can use your ACT scores to apply to colleges and universities at any point in the future.
What can affect the validity of ACT scores?
- If you take the ACT more than once, colleges and universities will see all of your scores. They will typically consider your highest ACT score, but some schools may consider your average score instead.
- It’s important to note that some colleges and universities require students to submit their ACT scores within a certain timeframe. For example, a school may require that test scores be no more than two years old at the time of application.
How can I keep track of my ACT scores?
Once you take the ACT, you’ll receive a report with your scores. It’s important to keep this report in a safe place where you can easily access it in the future. You can also access your scores online through your ACT account.
If you need to send your ACT scores to a college or university, you can request that they be sent directly from the ACT website. It’s important to keep in mind that there may be a fee associated with sending your scores.
ACT Score Range and Percentiles
The ACT is scored on a scale of 1-36, with 36 being the highest score possible. The average ACT score is around 21. Students who score above a 30 are considered to be in the top 5% of test-takers. Below is a table showing the score range and corresponding percentiles:
| Score Range | Percentile |
|---|---|
| 34-36 | 99-100% |
| 30-33 | 97-99% |
| 24-29 | 70-96% |
| 18-23 | 34-69% |
| 1-17 | 1-33% |
It’s important to remember that while ACT scores are just one factor that colleges and universities consider during the admissions process, they can play a significant role in determining whether or not you’re admitted to a particular school. So, it’s important to start preparing early and take the ACT seriously when the time comes!
What is the ACT test?
The ACT test is a standardized college entrance exam used to assess a student’s academic readiness for college. It measures a student’s knowledge and skills in English, mathematics, reading, and science.
- The ACT test is widely accepted by colleges and universities in the United States.
- It is typically taken by high school juniors and seniors.
- The test consists of multiple-choice questions and an optional essay portion.
The ACT test is typically used by students who are planning to attend college. Many colleges and universities require ACT scores as part of their admissions process, and a high score can improve a student’s chances of being accepted to their preferred schools.
Furthermore, some colleges and universities use ACT scores to determine eligibility for scholarships and other forms of financial aid. A good ACT score can be a valuable asset for students seeking financial assistance to help pay for college.
It’s important to note that while the ACT is a standardized test, individual scores can vary depending on a student’s background, level of preparation, and testing conditions. However, with proper preparation and study, students can improve their scores and increase their chances of being accepted to their preferred colleges and universities.
How long do ACT scores last?
ACT scores are generally valid for up to five years after the test date. This means that students who have taken the ACT can use their scores for college applications for up to five years from the date they took the test. After five years, most colleges and universities require that students retake the ACT in order to have more current scores.
It’s important to note that some colleges and universities have different requirements for how long ACT scores are valid. Students should check with their preferred schools to determine their specific policies and requirements for ACT scores.
| ACT Score | Percentile Rank |
|---|---|
| 36 | 99+ |
| 34-35 | 99 |
| 32-33 | 98 |
| 30-31 | 97 |
While ACT scores can impact a student’s college application process, they are just one factor that colleges and universities consider when making admissions decisions. Other factors such as a student’s GPA, extracurricular activities, and essays can also play a significant role in the admissions process.
How is the ACT scored?
The ACT, short for American College Testing, is a standardized test that measures a student’s proficiency level in four areas: English, math, reading, and science. Each of these sections is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, and then the composite score is created by taking an average of these four scores. The composite score is the most important part of an ACT score, as many colleges use it as a factor in their admissions decisions.
There is no penalty for guessing on the ACT, so students should always try to answer every question. The number of correct answers in each section is already tallied, which is called a raw score. The next step in the scoring process is converting that raw score into a scaled score, which is what appears on the score report.
How Each ACT Section is Scored
- English: The score for this section is based on a student’s performance on 75 multiple-choice questions. The raw score is then converted to a scaled score ranging from 1 to 36.
- Math: The math section also consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and students are scored based on the number of questions they answer correctly. The raw score is then converted to a scaled score ranging from 1 to 36.
- Reading: The score on the reading section reflects how well the student understands written passages and answers 40 multiple-choice questions. The raw score is then converted to a scaled score ranging from 1 to 36.
- Science: The science section of the ACT involves answering 40 multiple-choice questions that measure a student’s scientific reasoning skills. The raw score is then converted to a scaled score ranging from 1 to 36.
Composite Score Calculation
The composite score, which ranges from 1 to 36, is the average of the four section scores. For instance, if a student scores 30 on the English section, 26 on the Math section, 32 on the Reading section, and 28 on the Science section, their composite score is the average of these numbers, or 29. This composite score is then rounded off to the nearest whole number for reporting purposes.
How Long Do ACT Scores Last?
ACT scores do not expire. Once a student takes the test, their scores are kept on file indefinitely. However, it is important to note that some colleges and universities may consider only a student’s most recent ACT scores when making admission decisions. Additionally, some scholarship programs may also have requirements for the age of the ACT scores they will consider. Therefore, it is always best to check with the college or scholarship program to verify their policies and procedures regarding ACT scores.
What are good ACT scores?
When it comes to ACT scores, what constitutes a “good” score is ultimately subjective and varies depending on the individual’s goals and the colleges or universities they are applying to. That being said, there are certain score ranges that are generally considered competitive for admission to top-tier schools.
The ACT is scored on a scale of 1-36, with the median score being 20. A score of 30 or above is generally considered a “good” score and puts a student in the top 4-10% of test-takers. Scores in the 25-29 range are also considered competitive and could result in admission to many colleges and universities. Scores below 20 may require some additional prep and test-taking before seeking admission to competitive colleges.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that ACT scores are just one aspect of a student’s application. Colleges also consider factors such as GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation when making admissions decisions. A strong application with well-rounded achievements can make up for lower test scores.
Factors Affecting ACT Scores
- The amount of prep time and resources available to the student
- The student’s understanding of the test format and content
- The student’s overall academic abilities and strengths
- The stress and anxiety levels of the student on test day
- The student’s testing accommodations (if applicable)
How Long Do ACT Scores Last?
ACT scores are valid for five years from the date the test was taken. However, keep in mind that some colleges and universities may only accept scores from tests taken within a certain timeframe (e.g. within the last two years). Additionally, schools may only consider the highest ACT score a student has achieved, so it’s always worth retaking the test if you feel you can improve your score. It’s also important to note that, due to COVID-19 restrictions, many colleges and universities have temporarily adjusted their admissions criteria and may be more flexible with regard to standardized test scores.
ACT Score Comparison Table
| ACT Composite Score | Percentile Rank |
|---|---|
| 36 | 99+ |
| 34-35 | 99 |
| 32-33 | 98 |
| 30-31 | 95 |
| 28-29 | 89 |
| 26-27 | 81 |
| 24-25 | 72 |
This table can be used as a rough guide for understanding percentile ranks for ACT scores. For example, a score of 30 would put a student in the top 5% of test-takers. However, it’s important to note that these percentiles can vary slightly from year to year, and different colleges may have different score requirements for admission.
What is considered a passing ACT score?
Unlike other standardized tests, ACT does not have a specific passing score. The scores range from 1 to 36 based on the four subjects tested; English, math, reading, and science. Each college or university has their own range of scores they deem acceptable. So, when considering what is a passing score, it depends on the institution.
However, the average score for the ACT is 20.8, which is slightly above the middle of the scale. Most schools have a minimum requirement for ACT scores, typically around 18 to 22. If a student scores below this range, they are still able to submit their score, but it may impact their chances of being accepted to that particular school.
Here is a breakdown of average scores based on each subject:
- English: 20.2
- Math: 20.5
- Reading: 21.3
- Science: 20.8
It’s also important to note that some schools and programs may require a specific score for a particular subject. For example, if a student is applying to a program that heavily relies on math, such as engineering, they may need to achieve a higher score in math compared to the other subjects.
Can you retake the ACT?
The ACT is a standardized test used by colleges and universities to evaluate the academic readiness of potential students. Many high school students take the ACT during their junior or senior year, and the test scores are used as part of the college admission process. But what if a student is not happy with their ACT score? Can they retake the test? The answer is yes.
- There is no limit to the number of times a student can take the ACT.
- Most colleges and universities will only look at a student’s highest score, so taking the test multiple times can be beneficial.
- However, it is important to note that some colleges may average a student’s scores, so it is best to research the policies of individual colleges before retaking the test.
It is also important to consider the timing of retaking the ACT. Students should give themselves enough time to prepare for the test, as taking it multiple times without improving their scores can be discouraging. Many students choose to retake the test during their senior year, after they have had more time to prepare.
Another important factor to consider is the cost of retaking the test. The ACT has a registration fee, which varies depending on whether a student is taking the ACT with or without the writing section. There is also an additional fee for late registration and for changing the test date or location. However, some students may be eligible for a fee waiver based on their financial situation or other criteria.
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| ACT (no writing) | $55.00 |
| ACT (with writing) | $70.00 |
| Late registration fee | $35.00 |
| Test date or location change | $35.00 |
In summary, students can retake the ACT as many times as they wish. It is important to research the policies of individual colleges before retaking the test, and to give oneself enough time to prepare for each test. Students should also consider the cost of retaking the test and whether they are eligible for a fee waiver.
How do colleges use ACT scores?
Colleges use ACT scores as a part of the admissions process to evaluate the academic ability of applicants. Here are the various ways colleges may utilize ACT scores:
- Initial screening: ACT scores are often used as a preliminary screening tool to determine which applicants have the potential to succeed academically at the college level.
- Admissions decisions: ACT scores can have a significant impact on the admissions decision, particularly for colleges with competitive admission standards. High ACT scores may improve an applicant’s chances of acceptance, while low scores may lead to rejection or being placed on a waitlist.
- Scholarship consideration: Many colleges use ACT scores as a factor in awarding scholarships or grants to students.
- Course placement: ACT scores may be used to determine which courses a student is eligible to take, particularly in the areas of math and English.
- Academic advising: Colleges may use ACT scores to advise students on which majors or programs may be a good fit based on their academic abilities.
- Program eligibility: Some colleges have specific programs that require a minimum ACT score for eligibility, such as honors programs or specialized majors.
- Research: ACT scores can be used by colleges for research purposes, such as comparing the performance of different subgroups of students or evaluating the effectiveness of academic support programs.
- Accreditation: Some accrediting agencies require colleges to use standardized tests like the ACT as a measure of student learning and program effectiveness.
How long do ACT scores last?
ACT scores do not expire, so theoretically, a student’s ACT scores from any test date can be used for college admissions regardless of how long ago they were taken. However, colleges may prefer to see more recent scores to ensure that the student’s academic ability is still up to date and relevant to their current abilities. Additionally, some colleges may have specific time limits on which scores they will accept, so it’s important to check with each individual college to verify their policy.
Understanding ACT score reports
When a student takes the ACT, they receive a score report that provides a breakdown of their scores in each of the four sections – English, math, reading, and science – as well as a composite score. The report also includes information on the student’s percentiles and rank compared to other test-takers. Additionally, the report may include a writing score if the student opted to take the optional writing portion of the exam.
| Section | Score Range | Mean Score |
|---|---|---|
| English | 0-36 | 20.2 |
| Math | 0-36 | 20.5 |
| Reading | 0-36 | 21.3 |
| Science | 0-36 | 20.8 |
| Composite (average of four sections) | 0-36 | 20.8 |
| Writing (optional) | 0-12 | N/A |
It’s important to note that while the ACT is scored on a 0-36 scale, the mean (or average) score for each section is typically around 20-21, with the composite score averaging around 20-21 as well.
How important are ACT scores in college admissions?
ACT scores are one of the key factors that colleges and universities look at during the college admission process. While there are many other factors that are considered during the admission process, it cannot be denied that a student’s ACT scores are an important piece of the admission puzzle.
Here are some reasons why ACT scores are so important:
- Standardized Assessment: The ACT is a standardized test, meaning that it has the same set of questions and grading scale for every student who takes it. This means that colleges and universities can rely on ACT scores to provide a uniform benchmark for comparing students from different schools and backgrounds.
- Measure of Academic Potential: Because the ACT tests a student’s knowledge and skills in core academic subjects such as English, math, and science, it provides a measure of a student’s academic potential. This is an important consideration for colleges and universities when deciding which students would thrive in their academic environment.
- Benchmark for Scholarships: ACT scores often play a crucial role in determining the awarding of scholarships from colleges and universities. Even if a college does not require a certain ACT score for admission, a high score can make a significant difference in the amount of scholarship money a student can qualify for.
It’s important to note, however, that colleges and universities use a holistic approach to admissions. This means that while ACT scores are important, they are not the only factor that colleges use to determine admission. Factors such as extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters are also taken into account when making admission decisions.
| ACT Score Range | Percent of Applicants Accepted |
|---|---|
| 36-32 | 85-100% |
| 31-28 | 50-80% |
| 27-24 | 25-50% |
| 23-20 | 10-25% |
| 19-16 | 5-10% |
| 15-12 | 1-5% |
| 11-0 | 0-1% |
Overall, ACT scores are an important factor in college admissions. While they are not the only factor, they provide a critical measure of a student’s academic potential and can greatly impact a student’s chances of getting into the college of their dreams.
How often do colleges require ACT scores?
ACT scores are a crucial part of the college application process, as they help colleges evaluate the academic potential of their applicants. But how often do colleges require ACT scores? Let’s take a closer look:
- Most colleges require ACT scores as part of their application process. This is true for both four-year colleges and two-year colleges.
- However, some colleges may be test-optional, meaning they do not require ACT scores but will consider them if the student chooses to submit them.
- The frequency of ACT score requirements may also vary depending on the college. Some colleges may require ACT scores as soon as the initial application, while others may only require them after acceptance or for certain majors.
It’s always important to check with the specific colleges you’re applying to in order to determine their ACT score requirements and deadlines. Additionally, keep in mind that some colleges may require additional exams, such as SAT subject tests or AP exams, so be sure to check their website or contact their admissions office for detailed information.
How Long Does ACT Scores Last?
1. How long are ACT scores valid?
ACT scores stay valid for five years from the date of the test.
2. Can I send my ACT scores after the expiration date?
No, scores that expire cannot be sent to colleges, universities, or scholarship programs.
3. Can I retake the ACT after my scores have expired?
Yes, students can retake the ACT to get new, valid scores.
4. Will my expired ACT scores show up on my record?
Yes, expired scores will still show up on your record, but they will be marked as “no longer valid.”
5. Are there any exceptions to the five-year rule?
Yes, if you took the ACT before September 1, 2016, your scores may have different expiration dates based on when you took the test.
6. Do colleges consider expired ACT scores?
No, colleges do not consider expired ACT scores in their admissions decisions.
7. Can I use an expired ACT score to skip college courses?
No, colleges and universities do not accept expired ACT scores for course placement.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading our guide on how long ACT scores last! Hopefully, we’ve been able to answer all your questions about this topic. Remember, ACT scores are valid for five years, and it’s best to send your scores while they are still valid. If you have any further questions, be sure to check out ACT’s official website for more information. Thanks for visiting and we hope to see you again soon!