How can I make a 21 on the ACT work for college applications?

I recently got my ACT scores back and scored a 21. While I'm relieved to have a score, I'm not sure how competitive it is. I'm aiming for colleges that aren't super selective, but I still want to present myself well. What's the best way to use my 21 ACT score to my advantage? Are there any particular colleges known for accepting students with this score range? Also, any tips for retaking the test if that's what I should be doing?

Firstly, even though a 21 on the ACT might not be as high as some scores, there are certainly colleges out there where you'd be competitive. You're wise to be looking at colleges where your ACT score fits comfortably within the middle 50% range of accepted students; this is more likely to result in successful admission outcomes.

For example, colleges like Eastern Michigan University, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, and the University of North Texas have reported ACT median scores that align with yours.

As for enhancing your college application, focus on your strengths beyond your ACT score. This can include your GPA, your overall academic record, your extracurricular involvement, and your college essays. Remember, these other aspects can sometimes carry even more weight than your ACT score.

Before retaking the ACT, ensure that you have adequate time for preparation. Consider working through practice tests, utilizing prep books, or even utilizing free resources online that offer targeted practice for the ACT sections. In particular, identify the sections where you struggled the most and devote additional time to studying those areas.

However, keep in mind that in the coming years, more and more colleges are moving towards test-optional policies. Be sure to check whether the colleges you're interested in require an ACT score for the upcoming application cycle. If they’re test-optional, and other parts of your application are strong, applying without your test score is a strategy you might consider.

Ultimately, a 21 on the ACT does not close off your college opportunities. It's about finding the right fit for you and ensuring that the rest of your application showcases your strengths effectively.