A 25 Composite on the enhanced ACT is the rounded average of English, Math, and Reading—about 24.5 or higher across those three, with no core section stuck in the high teens. Science is optional and does not enter the Composite. A 25 sits well above the national average and is a realistic first target if you are in the low 20s.
The Composite math
27 + 25 + 23 averages 25. 28 + 26 + 21 also averages 25. 30 + 24 + 20 averages ~24.7 and can round either way. A 17 in any core section usually pulls the average under 25 no matter how high the other two go. Fix the floor first.
What a 25 usually takes
On a typical enhanced form you have 50 English, 45 Math, and 36 Reading items. A 25 is solid—not a near-perfect paper. Many students at 25 still miss a cluster per section, especially late Math and inference Reading. The work is finishing every section and cutting careless misses, not memorizing rare rules.
The same loop that raises any Composite applies: diagnostic, error log, weak-section drills, then another timed test. How to raise your ACT score.
Spend most of the week on the weakest core section
If English is 21, lock commas, agreement, and concision before you chase Reading vocabulary. If Math dies after question 25, rebuild linear equations and functions instead of adding Science. Climb one band at a time—for example English 20 to 25—then rebalance.
When 25 is the goal vs a checkpoint
A 25 is enough for many state universities and some merit grids. If your list's 75th percentiles sit at 30, treat 25 as a checkpoint and keep going: how to get a 30. Readiness benchmarks are a different number entirely: ACT college readiness benchmarks.
The bottom line
A 25 is an average with a high enough floor. Finish the sections, repair the weakest core score, and stop giving away questions you already know.
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.