Statewide school-day ACT testing programs have significantly expanded participation among all students, including those from low-income households and traditionally underserved populations, providing a more inclusive picture of college readiness. Since 2001, 23 states have implemented such programs, with participation rates rising by an average of 28 percentage points in the first year. Key insights from these programs include:
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Increased college readiness demonstration: When school-day testing is implemented, the number of students meeting ACT College Readiness Benchmarks increases by an average of 29 percent, with particularly significant gains for students from low-income (44 percent) and underrepresented racial/ethnic groups (47 percent). This demonstrates that many students who would not otherwise take the ACT can demonstrate college readiness when given the opportunity.
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Improved data for educators and policymakers: School-day testing provides educators with actionable insights to guide intervention at the student and school levels, while policymakers benefit from robust data for national comparisons. The ACT's College Readiness Benchmarks, based on a clear, research-backed standard, help students and educators understand achievement in a national context.
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Continued need to bolster academic and workforce readiness: In the ACT graduating class of 2024, 43 percent of students did not meet any of ACT’s four College Readiness Benchmarks, highlighting the ongoing importance of improving academic and workforce readiness for all secondary students. Higher education institutions also need to prepare for students arriving without typical academic preparation.
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Shifts in postsecondary plans: Many students who report no planned postsecondary education change their plans, with 26 percent of those who reported no education or training plans after high school still enrolling in college. School-day testing allows students the flexibility to explore and adjust their postsecondary options.
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Benefits of completing core curriculum: Students who have completed a core curriculum of four years of English and three years each of math, science, and social studies score significantly higher on the ACT, with a Composite score 2.6 points higher than those who have not. This underscores the importance of core curriculum completion for college readiness.
Overall, statewide school-day ACT programs have transformed the understanding and addressing of postsecondary readiness on a national scale, opening doors for students who might otherwise be excluded and providing a more accurate and holistic view of student preparedness. These programs represent a critical step toward a future where every student has the chance to demonstrate their potential and succeed.
