A 24 Composite is the rounded average of English, Math, and Reading—about 23.5 or higher—with no core section stuck in the high teens. It is a common state-university and merit-adjacent band between a 20 and a 25. Science stays off the Composite.
The Composite math
26 + 24 + 22 averages 24. 28 + 24 + 20 averages 24. 27 + 25 + 19 averages ~23.7 and can stay a 23. A leftover 17 is the study plan.
What changes after a 20
Getting to 20 is finishing. Getting to 24 is fewer careless English misses, Math through the middle of the section, and Reading evidence instead of vibe. If 20 is still shaky: how to get a 20. Same review loop: how to raise your ACT score.
When 24 is a checkpoint
If the list's 75ths sit at 28–30, keep going: how to get a 25. Many publics already look fine at 24 in-state: public university scores.
The bottom line
A 24 is a high-enough floor plus fewer giveaways. Lift the weakest core section out of the teens, then decide whether the list actually needs a 25.
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.