1. What is the ACT Composite Score?

The ACT Composite Score (CS) is the average of your four section scores (English, Math, Reading, and Science), each scored on a scale from 1 to 36. It provides an overall measure of academic achievement used by colleges for admissions decisions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the ACT Composite Score formula:

Where:

• \( CS \) — Composite Score (1-36)
• \( SS_i \) — Section Scores (English, Math, Reading, Science, each 1-36)

Explanation: The composite score is calculated by adding the four section scores and dividing by four, then rounding to the nearest whole number (or to nearest 0.5 if exactly halfway between whole numbers).

3. Importance of ACT Scores

Details: ACT scores are a critical component of college applications in the United States, used for admissions decisions, scholarship consideration, and course placement.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your section scores (1-36) for English, Math, Reading, and Science. The calculator will compute your composite score automatically.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is the composite score rounded?
A: If the average ends with .25, it's rounded down; .75 rounds up. Exactly .5 rounds to the nearest even number.

Q2: What's a good ACT composite score?
A: The national average is about 21. Competitive colleges typically look for scores of 28+.

Q3: Can I calculate without all four scores?
A: No, the official composite score requires all four sections. Some colleges may superscore (take best section scores across multiple tests).

Q4: How often can I take the ACT?
A: Up to 12 times total, with no more than 5 times in a single academic year.

Q5: Does the writing test affect the composite score?
A: No, the optional writing test is scored separately and doesn't affect your 1-36 composite score.