ACT Score for College Admission?

Hey! I'm starting my college research and super stressed about the ACT. Serious question: What is the typical ACT score most colleges look for? Any advice for a stressed junior?

Hello! I can understand why you're feeling stressed, as standardized tests like the ACT can be daunting. However, there isn't a 'typical' ACT score that every college looks for since it varies widely depending on the selectivity and specificity of the schools on your list.

For highly selective colleges and top-tier institutions, you would want to aim for an ACT score above 30 to be competitive. Schools likeDartmouth College, Harvard University, Purdue University, Brown University, Yale University, UT Austin, and Caltech have reinstated their testing requirement for the 2024-2025 application cycle. For most other selective four-year colleges, an ACT score above 25 would generally be considered strong.

But remember - the ACT score is just one piece in the puzzle of your application. Aside from test scores, colleges will also look at your GPA, extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, essays, and recommendation letters. While it's important to aim for a high score, it's equally important to focus on these other components as well.

As for advice on reducing stress, I'd recommend taking a well-paced approach to studying that blends content review with regular practice tests. Familiarizing yourself with the test format and the types of questions asked can help reduce anxiety. It's also important not to put so much pressure on a single test date. Keep in mind that you can take the ACT more than once, and only your highest score will be considered for admission purposes.

Good luck, take a deep breath, and believe in your abilities! Remember, studying effectively is not about cramming or pushing yourself to extremes, but being consistent and taking it one step at a time.