The Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) announced Thursday that Nebraska’s students performed strongly on the 2026 ACT exam, posting an average composite score of 18.8. This result places the state among the highest‑scoring jurisdictions in the nation for the test.
Statewide Participation and Comparison
Nebraska achieved 100% participation across both public and private schools, a benchmark that only a handful of states have reached. Among the states that also recorded full participation, only two managed to post composite scores above Nebraska’s 18.8.
Subject Breakdown
The detailed subject scores show a balanced performance: students averaged 17.8 in English, 19.2 in reading, 18.8 in math, and 19.2 in science. These figures suggest solid achievement across the core academic areas measured by the ACT.
Year‑over‑Year Change
Compared with the previous year, the composite average slipped slightly from 19.2 in 2025 to 18.8 in 2026. While the dip is modest, the overall ranking remains strong thanks to the universal participation rate.
Implications for Nebraska Families
For Nebraska families, the results reinforce the value of a statewide commitment to college readiness. The high participation rate means every student, regardless of school type, had the opportunity to take the exam, providing a comprehensive picture of the state’s academic standing.
Looking Ahead
NDE officials indicated that the department will continue to monitor performance trends and support schools in areas where scores could improve. The agency plans to share resources and best practices with districts to help maintain Nebraska’s competitive position in future testing cycles.
Overall, the 2026 ACT results highlight Nebraska’s dedication to education and its ability to keep students on par with the nation’s top performers.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
