The ACT gives you a raw score (questions correct) for each section, converts that to a scaled score from 1 to 36, then averages English, Math, and Reading into your Composite—with no penalty for wrong or blank answers. Understanding that path from bubble sheet to report makes practice scores and college targets much easier to interpret.
Raw score: count what you got right
Your raw score for a section is simply the number of scored questions you answered correctly. Wrong answers and blanks both add zero—there is no guessing penalty—so you should fill in every question. Experimental items are mixed in; you will not know which ones they are, and they are not added to your raw score.
Approximate question counts on the enhanced ACT (scored questions are slightly lower once experimentals are excluded):
- English: 50 questions in 35 minutes
- Math: 45 questions in 50 minutes
- Reading: 36 questions in 40 minutes
- Science (optional): 40 questions in 40 minutes
Scaled score: 1 to 36 per section
ACT converts each raw score into a scaled section score from 1 to 36 using a conversion table that is unique to that test form. The goal is equating: a 28 on an April test should represent about the same skill as a 28 on a June test, even if one form was a bit harder. That is why the same raw score can land on slightly different scaled scores across dates.
For how that process differs from a classroom "curve," see is the ACT curved.
Composite: average of three sections
Add your English, Math, and Reading scaled scores, divide by three, and round to the nearest whole number. Halves round up (for example, 31.5 becomes 32). Science, Writing, and STEM scores—if you take those sections—are reported separately and do not change the Composite.
Example: English 30, Math 28, Reading 32 → (30 + 28 + 32) / 3 = 30 Composite.
Practice tests vs official scoring
Official practice forms include their own conversion tables. Third-party tests often use approximate scales, so treat those composites as directional. For a step-by-step walkthrough, see how to calculate your ACT score from a practice test. For how many misses still leave room for a 36, see how many questions you can miss for a perfect 36.
Reading your report
Once scores post, map Composite and sections to percentiles and college ranges—not just to classroom averages. Start with how to read an ACT score report and ACT percentiles explained.
The bottom line
Raw score counts correct answers. Scaled scores put every form on a 1–36 scale. The Composite averages English, Math, and Reading. Master that sequence, and every practice test and college target becomes clearer.
Start practicing
Start with a free diagnostic, then drill your weak spots with 15-question quizzes and track how you're doing across Reading, English, and Math. Compare plans whenever you're ready to go further.
This article offers general ACT prep guidance. The ACT can change from year to year, including its format, scoring, policies, test dates, and fees, so always confirm the latest details on the official ACT website at act.org before you make decisions. ACT® is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. thirty-six is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by ACT.