Hey everyone, I've been researching college admissions and I'm wondering what would be considered an 'above average' ACT score? It would be nice to know what score range I should be aiming for!
Hello! An above average ACT score typically refers to a score that is higher than the national average. The national average ACT score usually hovers around 20-21 out of 36. However, if you're aiming for more selective colleges and universities, the "above average" comparison changes.
For selective schools, you'll want to aim for an ACT score of 30 or higher to be considered above average. This would place you in the top 6% of test-takers nationally. Keep in mind that the more selective the college, the higher the average ACT score will be for admitted students.
For example, at Ivy League and other highly competitive schools, the middle 50% ACT score range for admitted students is typically around 33-35. If your goal is to be admitted to a prestigious college, you should strive for an ACT score in the higher end of that range or even a perfect 36.
Remember that while test scores are important, they're not the only factor in college admissions. Your academic performance, extracurricular involvement, essay, and other application components are also taken into account by admissions committees. Hence, focus on building a strong overall application alongside achieving a competitive ACT score. Good luck!
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