Nebraska students achieve top ACT scores among states with universal testing

Nebraska students achieved the highest composite ACT score among states that require all students to take the exam, according to recent data. The ACT assesses college readiness in English, reading, mathematics, and science.

All public school juniors in Nebraska are mandated to take the ACT as part of the Nebraska Student-Centered Assessment System (NSCAS). This year, 100 percent of both public and private school graduates in Nebraska participated in the ACT.

For 2025, Nebraska’s average composite ACT score is 19.2, which is an increase from last year’s average of 19.1. In comparison, other states that also test all their students have an average composite score of 18.2. The ACT’s highest possible score is 36.

Nebraska’s performance also stands out when compared to states where more than 90 percent of graduates take the ACT. Among these 15 states, the average composite score is 18.4. States testing a higher percentage of graduates often see lower averages since results include students not on a college preparatory track.

Nationally, only 36 percent of students take the ACT. The average composite score for all U.S. test-takers remained unchanged from last year at 19.4.

In subject areas, Nebraska’s averages saw small increases: English scores rose to 18.2 from 18.1 last year; reading increased to 19.6 from 19.5; math went up to 18.9 from 18.8; and science stayed at 19.4.

There will be changes to next year’s ACT administration nationwide: the science section will become optional across the country, but Nebraska will continue to require it as part of its state assessment system. The writing section remains optional nationally but continues to be required in Nebraska.