Interpreting a 19 on the ACT

Hello! I recently took the ACT and got a 19. I'm a little unsure about how good or bad that score is. Can someone provide some context for how this score would be perceived by colleges?

Hello! A 19 on the ACT places you in the 44th percentile, meaning you scored better than 44% of other test-takers. This score is considered below average, as the national average for the ACT tends to hover around 20.5-21.

Keep in mind that the perceived competitiveness of your score will vary depending on the colleges you're applying to. For highly selective institutions, an ACT score of 19 is likely not competitive, as they often look for scores in the upper 20s or 30s. However, for some less selective colleges and community colleges, a 19 might be an acceptable score.

Many factors are considered in the college admissions process, and test scores are just one part. If you feel that your ACT score might not adequately reflect your academic abilities, it could be helpful to focus on other aspects of your application, such as your GPA, extracurricular activities, and essays, to demonstrate your strengths.

That being said, if you think you have the potential to improve your ACT score, it may be worthwhile to consider retaking the test. You can prepare by studying, using test prep books, attending workshops, or working with a tutor. Many students experience score increases upon retaking the ACT, so don't be discouraged by your initial score.

Ultimately, the best way to understand how your ACT score will be perceived by colleges is to research the average admitted student profile at the schools you're interested in. This information will give you an indication of whether your score is competitive for those schools or if you should consider retaking the test or focusing on other aspects of your application.

I hope this helps!