ACT and SAT Scores Decline Year After Year

ACT and SAT scores decline across the U.S. year after year according to recent data. Standardized tests, like the SAT and ACT, are used to determine academic readiness and skills for entering university. Scores grant entry to schools with specific requirements, award scholarships, and determine areas of strengths and weaknesses within a student’s academic career. In this blog, we will cover the current data on scores year after year, factors associated with the changes, and how to best approach these standardized tests in light of recent data. This month, Peterson’s will be offering an ACT and SAT special, six months of test prep for $135—99 dollars off, so that students can walk into their test confidently.

Current Data on ACT & SAT Scores Decline

• ACT—In 2024, average ACT composite scores were 19.4 compared to 19.5 in 2023. In 2022, ACT composite scores were 19.8, down from 2021’s average composite score of 20.3, according to ACT.org.
• SAT— In 2024, average SAT total scores were 1024, compared to 1028 for the class of 2023. The average SAT was  1028 in 2023, down from 1050 for the class of 2022. In 2021, the average SAT score was 1060, according to the College Board. 

Factors Contributing to ACT and SAT Scores Decline

Pandemic-related Learning Disruptions:

• School closures and remote learning challenges during COVID-19.
• Learning gaps are exacerbated by unequal access to resources in the wake of changing education.

Test-Optional Policies:

• A growing number of colleges adopting test-optional policies—this might have influenced student performance and test-taking habits
  • Some universities and colleges are continuing test-optional policies while others are going back to relying on standardized tests for admissions.  

Mental Health and Stress:

• Increased levels of stress and anxiety among students post-pandemic.
• The pressure of standardized testing in an evolving education landscape.

The Impact on College Admissions

Even though ACT and SAT scores decline, students still want to get into the college of their choice. Here are some ways they can do so:

• Strengthen both standardized test scores through SAT and ACT test prep courses which offer practice tests and proven methods to walk into test day confident in a stellar score.
• Showcase other strengths in AP tests, through extracurriculars, college essays, and GPA. Take a holistic approach to ensuring admission into the university of their choice.
• Ensure SAT and ACT are supporting their enrollment in university—Students may choose to submit scores if they enhance their academic profile and withhold them if their school doesn’t require them.

Solutions and Adjustments for the Future

Education Policy Changes:

ACT and SAT are making changes to make both tests more approachable for students, online testing being one of the many changes. For ACT changes, see our blog to know how ACT will be helping students show up as their best on test day. 

SAT launched digital PSAT and SAT exams online last year intending to make the test shorter and more approachable. Read our blog to see the changes. These changes aim to give students a better chance to approach the exam with renewed confidence.

The reasons for ACT and SAT scores decline over the years are multifaceted, and tied to various challenges. The SAT and ACT remain relevant in assessing academic readiness. As we wait for collaboration between educators, students, and policymakers to ensure academic preparedness, we recommend that students take charge of their future by ensuring they can get the best score possible by prepping for their future tests. For mental health resources, check out The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) and other resources available to students through school counselors. Tutoring, preparation courses, and academic support programs ensure students will feel supported in their academic endeavors. 

With Peterson’s Test Prep, students can get both SAT and ACT test prep along with free on-demand, online access to our expert tutoring service to help them in subjects they’re struggling in. Falling test scores and academic challenges are no match for how brilliant students are. Together, let’s raise their ACT and SAT scores, as well as their futures.