ACT National Curriculum Survey

The ACT National Curriculum Survey is a nationwide survey of educational practices and expectations conducted every three to five years. ACT surveys K–12 teachers and postsecondary instructors across English, math, reading, science, and writing to understand what students are actually being taught — and what colleges and employers expect them to know.

The results directly shape the ACT assessment, ensuring the test measures what students learn in school, not what theory or outdated standards say they should.

Evidence You Can Trust

A valid assessment starts with a simple question: Does the test measure what students actually learn? 

The ACT answers that question with evidence. Here's how: 

The test reflects real instruction. State standards and college readiness expectations are reviewed against what teachers are actually teaching. Students are tested on English, math, reading, science, and writing — the subjects at the core of their school experience. 

Educator input drives test design. Valid assessments use educator input and research to ensure tests measure what they claim to measure. The National Curriculum Survey is that input — gathered directly from thousands of teachers and college instructors nationwide. 

Scores are linked to real outcomes. ACT's College Readiness Benchmarks indicate the achievement levels associated with a 50% chance of earning a B or higher — and a 75–80% chance of earning a C or higher — in corresponding college courses.  

The ACT: Built for Student Success. Backed by Evidence. Believed by Educators. 

Explore the Research

Each survey report is publicly available. ACT shares these findings because we believe educators, policymakers, and district leaders deserve full transparency into how the assessment is built and continuously validated. 

2020 ACT National Curriculum Survey

2016 ACT National Curriculum Survey

2012 ACT National Curriculum Survey

Previous Reports

Ready to See What Your Students Know? 

The ACT is more than a test — it's a signal. When students take the ACT, they're measured against the same standards that teachers helped build and that colleges use to make admissions and placement decisions. That alignment means ACT scores tell a clear, credible story about where students are and where they're headed.

Whether you're evaluating a statewide assessment solution, looking for a college readiness benchmark, or exploring options for your district, the ACT gives you data you can act on.