Determining Good ACT Scores?

In order to be competitive in college admissions, what would be considered a good ACT score? Are there any benchmark scores that I should aim for when taking the exam?

A "good" ACT score depends on the colleges that you're interested in and their admission requirements. Typically, schools have an ACT score range for admitted students, and it's important to aim to be within that range or higher for the best chances of admission. Here are some general guidelines to consider when determining if your ACT score is competitive:

1. Average ACT score: The national average ACT score is around a 21. If you score above a 21, you're generally in the top half of test-takers. However, this may not be competitive for more selective colleges.

2. Competitive ACT scores: For more selective colleges, a score of 28 or above is considered competitive. This places you in the top 10% of test-takers. Getting a score in this range puts you in a strong position when applying to most colleges and universities, including some of the more selective institutions.

3. Top-tier colleges: For highly selective schools, such as Ivy League universities, a score of 32 or above is often considered the minimum, placing you in the top 2% of test-takers. However, it's important to remember that test scores are not the only factor in admissions for these schools.

To set a target ACT score, research the ACT score ranges for the schools you're most interested in attending. An effective strategy is to try to get within the 75th percentile of admitted students, as this gives you a better chance of being admitted and may also qualify you for merit-based scholarships.

In addition to your ACT score, your application should also showcase your grades, rigor of coursework, extracurricular activities, and other factors that provide a comprehensive picture of your academic abilities and personal qualities. Remember, an above-average ACT score can help alleviate concerns in other areas of your application, while an excellent application overall can help mitigate the impact of a lower score.