South Dakota High School Students Outperform Nation On ACT For Sixth Straight Year
Once again, South Dakota high school students have proven they are smarter than the national average.
The Mount Rushmore State's graduating class of 2026 earned an average ACT composite score of 21.1, nearly two points higher than the average (19.2) across America.
It marks the sixth straight year South Dakota has exceeded the national average.
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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
- 2021: 21.6 vs. 20.3
- 2022: 21.5 vs. 19.8
- 2023: 21.1 vs. 19.5
- 2024: 21.1 vs. 19.4
- 2025: 21.0 vs. 19.4
- 2026: 21.1 vs. 19.2
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Gallery Credit: Stacker
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Flashback 1992: Inside Sioux Falls Old Washington High School
Gallery Credit: Ben Kuhns
