ACT Scoring

How is the ACT scored? When and how do you see your scores? How do you send scores to schools you’re applying for?

The team here at Test Innovators has the answers!

How is the test scored?
The multiple-choice sections (English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science) are scored by counting all of your correctly answered questions and converting that number into a scaled score from 1-36. Remember, there is no penalty for incorrect answers. The Composite (overall) score is the average of the four multiple-choice sections.

The Writing Section is scored by two graders. The following four domains are graded on a scale of 1-6:
1. Ideas and Analysis
2. Development and Support
3. Organization
4. Language Use and Conventions

For each domain, the two scores (one from each grader) are added together for a total domain score out of 12. Then, the four domain scores are averaged into a composite score out of 12.

Here is an example of a score report.

When will I get my scores?
Scores for the multiple-choice sections (English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science) are typically posted two weeks after the national test date but can take as long as eight weeks. The writing score is usually available two weeks after the multiple-choice scores.

Note: If you took the Writing Section, you will not receive an official overall score until the writing score has been completed.

Where do I view my scores?
You can view your scores by logging into your ACT web account.

How do I send my scores to schools I am applying to?
When you register for the ACT, you have the option of selecting up to four schools to have your scores sent to. There is no fee for these first four schools.

If you want to send your scores after you take the test, you can do so on your ACT web account, over the phone, or by submitting a request by mail. The cost to send additional score reports is $13 per report.