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Did you recently get your ACT scores back and are now wondering how your score compares with those of other test takers in your state? Or perhaps you're curious as to how your state's average ACT score stacks up against other state averages.

For this article, we compiled the average ACT scores by state, as well as the average in each subject area, using the latest data from ACT, Inc. Read on to learn how your state's SAT data—and your ACT score—compares with the averages in the rest of the country.

What's the National Average ACT Score?

Over one million students nationwide took the ACT in 2020/2021—1.3 million, to be precise. Out of all of those tests, the national average scores came out as follows:

Sources: ACT National Profile Report 2021

Remember that each ACT section, and the overall composite score, are scored between 1 and 36.

This means that if you get a composite score of 21 or higher, you will beat half the other high school students in the country. If you get significantly higher than 21, you will have beaten out a majority of test takers. Likewise, if you get lower than 20, a majority of test takers will have beaten out you.

But what about the ACT averages in your state specifically? Read on to learn how well you have to do on the exam to be considered above average in your home state.

All Average ACT Scores by State (2021)

The following table contains all ACT state averages for the class of 2021 (the most recent data available). We've also included state participation rates to give you an idea of the reach of the ACT in each state and the size of the population being tested.

Source: Average ACT Scores by State Graduating Class 2021

ACT Averages by State: Hall of Fame

Now that you've had a chance to skim the list of state ACT averages, we thought it would be fun to highlight the highs and lows of the United States' ACT performance. See if your state made the cut below!

Highest ACT State Score: Connecticut and Massachusetts

Massachusetts has the highest ACT score in the country, with an average composite of 27.6, just above Connecticut (27.2) and New Hampshire (26.6).

However, it should be noted that these three states have relatively low ACT participation: 4% for New Hampshire, 7% for Massachusetts, and 9% for Connecticut. This is because the SAT is more popular in these states.

So what does this data mean? Ultimately, it suggests that those taking the ACT in these states are ambitious, college-bound students looking to improve their applications, which would make for a higher average ACT score.

Team Players: 100% ACT Participation

There are six states with 100% ACT participation. These states have made the ACT a mandatory part of their statewide testing regimens, helping high school students be better prepared for their college applications.

• Alabama
• Kentucky
• Mississippi
• Nevada
• North Dakota
• Tennessee

Highest ACT State Score With 100% Participation: Utah and Wisconsin

As you know, six states currently have 100% ACT participation. The state with the highest average score out of this group has a lot to be proud of because that average represents the entire high school population of that state.

So who wins? North Dakota is barely ahead of Kentucky, with a 19.6 average composite score (vs. Kentucky's 19.2 average). The runner-up is Tennessee with a 19.1 average composite. 

Lowest Participation: Maine

Maine wins this one by a landslide, with just 5% of its students taking the ACT. This is likely because the SAT is still the test of choice in that northeastern state. However, the SAT, which was once required in Maine, is now optional as well.

Lowest ACT State Score: Nevada

Nevada earns the dubious honor of getting the lowest average ACT score, with an average composite of 17.8.

This low average is likely due to the fact that Nevada mandated statewide ACT testing starting in 2016. In general, big jumps in test takers often result in lower averages. As such, this new average is noticeably lower than Nevada's 2015 average of 21, back when just some students took the ACT.

As the ACT becomes a staple of Nevada's state testing regimen, averages will likely increase.

Key Takeaways: Average ACT Scores by State

As you can see, the average ACT score can change pretty dramatically depending on which state you're looking at.

Nationally, the average composite ACT score is 20.3—but many states' averages are higher or lower than this. In general, states with 100% participation rates (i.e., states that require the ACT) tend to have lower averages, whereas states with low participation rates tend to have higher averages.

In terms of notable states, here's a quick wrap-up of the ACT "awards" we gave above:

• Highest ACT State Score: Massachusetts (27.6 average)
• Team Players: 100% ACT Participation
  • Alabama
  • Kentucky
  • Mississippi
  • Nevada
  • North Dakota
  • Tennessee
• Score With 100% Participation: Utah (19.6 average)
• Lowest ACT State Score: Nevada (17.8 average)

If you're ever curious what ACT score you need to aim for to be considered above average for your state, simply come back to this page, check the chart, and see whether your state made our Hall of Fame!

What's Next?

Want more context for your ACT score? Learn more about the national ACT average score and ACT score percentiles.

What ACT scores are considered good by various colleges? Check out our guide to developing a target ACT score based on the schools you want to apply to.

Wondering about what your composite ACT score represents in terms of right and wrong answers? Learn the ins and outs of ACT scoring and get tips to help you use this info to your advantage.

Trying to maximize your ACT score? Avoid this common ACT mistake to improve your composite. Also, check out our top strategies to raise your ACT essay score.

Want to improve your ACT score by 4+ points? Download our free guide to the top 5 strategies you need in your prep to improve your ACT score dramatically.