The ACT is a critical step for college admissions, but understanding how your raw score converts to a scaled score (1–36) can feel like deciphering a secret code. This guide demystifies the process, explains why raw score conversion matters, and provides actionable tips to maximize your results. Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, you’ll walk away with clarity and confidence.

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What Are ACT Raw Scores vs. Scaled Scores?

1. Raw Scores:

• The number of questions you answer correctly in each section (English, Math, Reading, Science).
• No penalties for incorrect answers.
• Example: 65/75 correct in Math = raw score of 65.

1. Scaled Scores:

• Converted from raw scores to a standardized 1–36 scale.
• Adjusts for slight difficulty variations between test versions.
• Your composite score is the average of the four section scaled scores.

Why Conversion Matters:

• Colleges use scaled scores for admissions decisions (ACT Official Website).
• Understanding conversion helps you set target raw scores during practice tests.

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How ACT Raw Score Conversion Works

The ACT uses an “equating” process to ensure fairness. While the exact conversion tables vary by test date, here’s a general framework:

Sample ACT Raw-to-Scaled Score Conversion Chart

Raw Score	English	Math	Reading	Science
70	35	34	35	34
60	30	29	30	29
50	24	24	24	24

Key Notes:

• Math curves are often steeper (missing 5 questions might drop you from 34 to 30).
• English and Reading scales are more forgiving.

For the most accurate conversion table, refer to the ACT’s official resources after your test date.

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Step-by-Step: Convert Your Raw ACT Score

1. Tally Your Raw Scores:

• Count correct answers for each section.

1. Use the ACT’s Conversion Table:

• Find your test date’s official table (released by ACT post-exam).
• Match raw scores to scaled scores.

1. Calculate Your Composite Score:

• Average the four scaled scores (round to the nearest whole number).

Example Calculation:

• English: 30 | Math: 28 | Reading: 31 | Science: 29
• Composite: (30 + 28 + 31 + 29) ÷ 4 = 29.5 → 30

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4 Tips to Improve Your Raw ACT Score

1. Focus on High-Impact Questions:

• Math: Prioritize algebra and geometry (~60% of the section).
• Reading: Master passage summarization to save time.

1. Avoid Time Traps:

• Skip complex questions and return later if time permits.

1. Practice with Realistic Tests:

• Use official ACT practice exams to simulate test-day conditions.

1. Analyze Mistakes:

• Review errors to identify patterns (e.g., misreading graphs in Science).

For free practice tests, visit Khan Academy’s ACT prep hub.

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How to Use an ACT Score Calculator

Our free ACT Score Calculator simplifies the process:

1. Enter your raw scores for each section.
2. Instantly view your scaled and composite scores.
3. Compare results to college benchmarks (e.g., Ivy League schools often require 33+).

Pro Tip: Use the calculator during practice tests to set weekly goals.

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FAQs About ACT Raw Score Conversion

1. Do essays affect my composite score?

• No. The optional Writing Test receives a separate score (2–12).

1. Can I guess if I’m out of time?

• Yes! There’s no penalty for wrong answers.

1. Why does my scaled score differ from practice tests?

• Each test’s curve varies slightly based on difficulty.

1. How often do ACT conversion charts change?

• The ACT updates its equating process annually. Minor adjustments are common, but major changes are rare. Check the ACT’s annual report for details.

1. Do colleges prefer raw or scaled scores?

• Colleges only see scaled scores. Raw scores are not reported.

1. Can I retake the ACT to improve my score?

• Yes! Most students take the ACT 2–3 times. Princeton University reports that 60% of admitted students improved their scores on retakes.

1. What’s the average ACT score?

• The national average composite score is 20.7 (U.S. News & World Report).

1. Does the Science section penalize incorrect answers?

• No. Like all sections, only correct answers count toward your raw score.

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Final Tips for Maximizing Your ACT Score

• Aim for Consistency: Small, daily study sessions beat last-minute cramming.
• Target Weak Areas: Use conversion charts to prioritize sections needing improvement.
• Leverage Resources: Combine our calculator with official ACT prep materials.

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Ready to Crush the ACT?
Bookmark this guide, practice with purpose, and track your progress using our calculator. With the right strategy, you’ll turn raw scores into college-ready results!