Getting into the Coast Guard Academy with a 21 ACT?

Hey everyone, I'm wondering about my chances of getting into the Coast Guard Academy with a 21 on the ACT. Is it still possible, or should I consider retaking the test? Any advice would help me plan my next steps.

The United States Coast Guard Academy is highly competitive, and most students admitted into the program have strong academic profiles. The average ACT score range for accepted students is typically between 26 and 31. Your current score of 21 is below this range, which could make your application less competitive.

Retaking the ACT could potentially improve your chances if you feel you can achieve a higher score with additional preparation. You may want to consider investing in ACT prep materials or finding a tutor to work on areas where you struggled the most in your previous attempt.

In addition to your test scores, remember that the Academy is also considering your grades, leadership experience, physical fitness, character, and commitment to public service. Therefore, it's also important to work on these areas to make your application as strong as possible.

For instance, if you have a strong physical fitness level, have a record of leadership roles in school or community organizations, or have participated in summer programs like AIM (Academy Introduction Mission) at the Coast Guard Academy, these could potentially offset your ACT scores to an extent.

Lastly, make sure to reach out to admissions officers to better understand their perspective on your case. They can provide the most accurate information about your application and guide you accordingly. Good luck with your college journey!