Pierre, S.D. – South Dakota’s graduating class of 2026 achieved an average ACT composite score of 21.1, surpassing the national average ACT composite score of 19.2. For the sixth year in a row, South Dakota has exceeded the national average.

The ACT, traditionally known as the standardized test used for college admissions, goes beyond securing a seat in postsecondary education. It provides insight into students’ college and career readiness, course placement, scholarships, loans, and financial assistance to pursue higher education.

Of South Dakota’s 2026 high school graduates, 56 percent took the ACT, and three students earned a perfect composite score of 36.

South Dakota vs. National Average Composite ACT Scores

* 2026 ACT composite scores may only reflect English, math, and reading assessments.  Prior year composite scores are inclusive of science.

Later this fall, the department will release the accountability report card, which will include results from the administration of the ACT as South Dakota’s state assessment that public school juniors took in Spring 2026.  Those results are not included in the figures released today.

“South Dakota students achieving an average composite score higher than the national average year after year is a remarkable accomplishment,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Joseph Graves. “Our students, their parents, and their teachers deserve enormous credit for this accomplishment.”

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