Key takeaways
Understanding which states require the ACT can significantly impact your college application strategy and high school planning. This article outlines the states that mandate the ACT for public high school juniors and provides insights on how to prepare effectively for the test.
- 16 U.S. states require or fund the ACT for all public high school juniors in 2025, making it a crucial test for students in those regions.
- Taking the ACT is often free in these states, providing an opportunity for students to enhance their college applications without additional costs.
- The ACT Writing section was officially retired in 2024, and no colleges currently require it for admissions.
- A strong ACT score can unlock merit-based scholarships, particularly in the South and Midwest, where certain scores may automatically qualify students for financial aid.
Contents
Several U.S. states still require students to take the ACT—either as part of high school graduation requirements or state-funded testing programs.
Understanding where and why the ACT is required can help you prepare strategically, especially if you’re applying to colleges in those regions or attending high school there.
Which States Require the ACT for College or High School?
The following states require or administer the ACT to all public high school juniors in 2025:
| State | ACT Required? | Purpose |
| Alabama | Yes | Graduation / State assessment |
| Kentucky | Yes | State assessment |
| Louisiana | Yes | Graduation / Accountability |
| Mississippi | Yes | Graduation / State funding |
| Missouri | Yes | Free for juniors |
| Montana | Yes | State-mandated for juniors |
| Nebraska | Yes | Accountability testing |
| Nevada | Yes | Graduation requirement |
| North Carolina | Yes | State accountability |
| North Dakota | Yes | State-funded testing |
| Ohio | Yes | State-funded ACT or SAT choice |
| South Carolina | Yes | State assessment |
| Tennessee | Yes | Graduation / Accountability |
| Utah | Yes | Mandatory for juniors |
| Wisconsin | Yes | State-mandated for juniors |
| Wyoming | Yes | Graduation / State standards |
Should You Take the ACT or the SAT?
All big U.S. colleges accept both the SAT and ACT. The best one for you depends on what you’re good at in school—and sometimes on the rules in your state:
- Take the ACT if you live in a required state—it’s free and part of your school plan
- Consider the SAT if you’re stronger in reading-based reasoning and dislike science
- Some students take both and submit the better score (yes, that’s allowed!)
Key Differences Between the ACT and SAT
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Element | ACT | SAT |
| Sections | English, Math, Reading, Science | Reading/Writing, Math |
| Science Section | Yes | No |
| Essay | No (retired) | No |
| Length | ~2 hrs 55 mins | ~2 hrs 14 mins (digital) |
| Scoring | 1-36 per section, averaged | 200-800 per section, total 1600 |
Students who perform well under pressure tend to prefer the SAT’s new adaptive format, while those who like consistent pacing often do better on the ACT.
How To Choose The Right Test For You?
Take a full practice test for both the SAT and ACT with a timer. Then use the official score charts to see which one gives you a better percentile rank.
Also consider:
- Do you struggle with algebra-heavy math? SAT may be tougher
- Do you enjoy quick reading sections and science data? ACT might suit you better
- Does your school or state provide one test for free? Take advantage of it
Can You Take The ACT Without The Writing Section?
Yes. The ACT Writing section (essay) was discontinued in 2024 and is no longer offered as part of national or state testing. All colleges that once required ACT Writing have dropped that requirement.
Why Taking the ACT Might Benefit You?
Even in a test-optional world, a strong ACT score can:
- Boost your application at selective schools
- Help you qualify for merit-based scholarships
- Offset a lower GPA or inconsistent transcript
- Improve your course placement once admitted
Also, some universities automatically award scholarships based on ACT scores—especially in the South and Midwest.
How to Prepare Effectively for the ACT?
Legacy Online School helps students build the confidence and skills they need to succeed on the SAT® and ACT®. All lessons are delivered live online, with real-time support and feedback from qualified instructors who are fully invested in your progress. If you’re serious about improving your score, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
You’ll likely take the ACT junior year If your state mandates it. Begin preparing in the fall of that school year:
- Use official ACT practice tests (available for free)
- Try online platforms like Legacy Online School
- Review each section individually, especially Science, which is ACT-exclusive
- Take at least two timed practice tests before your real exam
Understanding ACT Scores and Their Role in Admissions
Your ACT composite score is the average of your four section scores, each on a scale of 1-36. Colleges use either:
- Your highest single sitting (composite)
- Superscore (the best section scores across multiple test dates)
Check if your college’s superscore ACT scores. Not all do—especially public schools.
What Is Considered a Good ACT Score?
Here’s a rough guide for 2025:
| ACT Score | Percentile Rank | Evaluation |
| 34-36 | 99th | Ivy-level / elite |
| 30-33 | 93rd-98th | Competitive schools |
| 25-29 | 78th-90th | Strong for public colleges |
| 21-24 | ~60th-75th | Above average |
| Below 20 | <50th | May limit selective options |
Your definition of “good” depends on your target schools. Always check admitted student stats.
How Colleges Evaluate ACT Scores in Admissions?
Test scores are one part of a larger picture. Colleges combine your ACT score with:
- GPA and class rank
- Course rigor (AP, IB, honors)
- Personal statement and essays
- Extracurriculars and leadership
- Recommendation letters
A 35 ACT won’t save a weak essay in highly selective schools—but it can elevate a strong app.
What To Do If Your ACT Score Falls Short?
You have options:
- Retake the ACT with targeted prep
- Try the SAT—some students perform better on the other test
- Apply test-optional to colleges that allow it
- Highlight other strengths in your application (essays, activities)
“I would recommend getting a tutor or going to a learning center if you feel like all your efforts haven’t paid off. However, if you feel like self studying, it’s also possible. Get Erica meltzer’s English book and the ultimate guide to math ACT 2nd edition”
— u/KindlyJello, Reddit
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Top Tips from Our Expert
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Alyssa Mendoza, AP Coordinator and College Prep Specialist
Sources: College Board, ACT, Reddit
