SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) - According to a report from the South Dakota Department of Education, the graduating class of 2025 earned an average ACT score above the national average.

The national average ACT score is 19.4, with the average class of 2025 ACT composite score being 21.0.

The DOE says over 60% of South Dakota’s 2025 graduates took the ACT.

Currently, the ACT is optional, but beginning in the spring of 2026, all South Dakota juniors at public schools will take the test, replacing the previously required high school state assessment.

Below is a chart from the South Dakota Department of Education showcasing South Dakota’s year-over-year ACT scores compared to the national scores. Year South Dakota National 2021 21.6 20.3 2022 21.5 19.8 2023 21.1 19.5 2024 21.1 19.4 2

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