Oct. 29, 2024
2024 New Mexico grads test above average for college readiness
SANTA FE — According to a recent data release from ACT, New Mexico’s graduating class of 2024 scored above the national and western regional averages in all test categories for the college readiness assessment. New Mexico’s class of 2024 showed a composite average ACT score of 20, compared to the national average of 19.4 and regional average of 19.3.
“New Mexico students continue to make progress; this is just one indication of their progress,” said Public Education Secretary-Designate Mariana Padilla. “When students are equipped with the skills they need for higher education and future careers, it shows that our schools are effectively supporting their growth and success, both academically and personally."
The ACT is a curriculum-based measure of college readiness. Students score on a scale ranging from one to 36. The ACT data release reflects the 2024 New Mexico graduates who took the ACT test at least once in grades 10, 11, or 12. An estimated 12% of 2024 New Mexico graduates were tested.
23% of 2024 New Mexico graduates met four of the six ACT College Readiness Benchmarks, which are the ACT scores that represent the level of achievement required for students to have a 50% chance of obtaining a B or higher and about a 75-80% chance of obtaining a C or higher in corresponding credit-bearing courses.
54% of New Mexico students tested met the English Benchmark, compared to the 51% national average. 30% met the Math Benchmark, compared to the 29% national average. 45% met the Reading Benchmark, compared to the 40% national average. 31% met the Science Benchmark, compared to the 30% national average.
New Mexico graduates sent over 3,270 ACT scores to postsecondary institutions. Top score recipients included New Mexico State University, University of New Mexico, Eastern New Mexico University, and Texas Tech University.
The skills measured by the ACT have been consistently identified as important for success in a broad range of jobs, making them foundational skills for career readiness.
The full data release is available on the ACT Data and Visualization webpage.
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Link: NEWS RELEASE: 2024 New Mexico grads test above average for college readiness