Iowa has tied with South Dakota for the highest average composite scores in the country on the ACT assessment test. Iowa and South Dakota had an average composite score of 21.6 out of a possible 36. Iowa’s score declined slightly from the previous year (21.8), but remains well above the national average (20.7). The 22,965 Iowa students who took the ACT represent 66% of last spring’s graduating class. ?In 2019, 29% of Iowa graduates met all four ACT College Readiness Benchmarks, a decrease from 30% and 33% of 2018 and 2015 graduates, respectively. “The results reflect our commitment to education and the need to do even more to better prepare our young people for the future,” said Gov. Kim Reynolds. “It’s why Iowa must continue to build on innovative programs that connect individuals to the training and education required for rewarding careers.” To view a summary sheet of Iowa’s results, click here.