Alabama sees record participation in 2024 ACT test, report says

MONTGOMERY, Ala. ( WHNT ) — The Alabama State Department of Education said the 2024 ACT test saw record participation in the state.

The Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) said in 2024, more than 12,000 students participated in the ACT test. This number rose from the 10,400 students who took the test in 2023.

The report shows this is a 15% increase in participation over the past year. This increase reflects the state’s ongoing efforts to support its students’ success.

ALSDE said in a report that “an estimated 100% of Alabama graduates took the ACT, with 94% participating at least once as part of school-day testing. In their continued efforts to further support students, the Alabama State Board of Education made it possible to offer waivers that allow students to take the ACT for free, as well as provide transportation assistance to testing sites on weekends in many instances.”

Alabama State Superintendent of Education Dr. Eric Mackey highlighted the importance of reducing restrictions to access for students preparing for life after high school.

“Since 2014, Alabama has ensured that every student has the opportunity to take the
ACT. We celebrate the strides we’ve made in reducing barriers to testing, which has
helped open doors for countless students to either pursue postsecondary education or
enter the workforce — whatever path they feel is right for them. Although we’ve made progress, we’re committed to addressing the remaining challenges and ensuring every student has the opportunity to get a holistic view of their college and career readiness.”

Dr. Eric Mackey

The report made by ALSDE said Alabama students who take the ACT more than once averaged a composite score of 21 compared to the statewide average of 18.

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