Deciphering ACT Scores Needed for College

A bit stressed here, folks... I've been searching all over the net and just can't get a clear answer. What ACT score do I need to have a good shot at a reputable college? Any advice?

While it's completely normal to be stressed about understanding what you need to get into college, it's also important to remember that an entire application is reviewed, not just the ACT score. However, to give you an idea of the ACT scores typically associated with certain levels of colleges, here's a little guidance.

Selecting a target ACT score should be based on the average ACT scores at the colleges you're interested in. Highly selective colleges, such as Ivy League institutions, typically have 25th-75th percentile ACT scores around 32-35. For selective institutions, such as state flagship universities, the 25th-75th percentile might range from about 27-32. Less selective schools often have a range lower than that.

To feel confident about your chances at any given school, you generally should aim to have an ACT score that is at least at the school's 75th percentile, if not higher. Remember to consider the specific schools you're interested in and research the average ACT scores there.

However, it's crucial to remember that a single score won't guarantee admission. Colleges consider numerous factors in admissions decisions, such as course rigor, GPA, extracurriculars, letters of recommendation, and essays. So make sure you give every aspect of your application the time and attention it deserves. Keep a positive mindset and do your best! It's always good to aim high, but remember, even if you don't hit your target score, there are many paths to a successful future.