The ACT lets college admissions personnel compare students from various backgrounds and schools, since not all schools have the same academic standards.
The ACT has four sections (English, math, reading and science) scored from 1 to 36. These are averaged to obtain the composite score, also out of 36. Students are also given a national ranking, which tells the percentage of students who scored at or below that level.
For all colleges requiring the ACT, these are the average scores for 2007 (see Resources):
- Four-year public colleges: 21.5
- Four-year private colleges: 22.5
- Competitive colleges: 30
Most two-year colleges do not require the ACT. Of those that do, the average score is 18.
Since every school is different, you should visit the Admissions website for the school you're interested in.