Hey everyone, I'm preparing for the ACT and I'm wondering what would be considered an above average score? I know it's out of 36, but what score range should I aim for to stand out to colleges and show that I'm academically strong?
An above-average ACT score would be higher than the national average, which typically falls around 21. However, I understand that you'd like to aim for a score that will impress colleges, so let me provide more context.
For a score that is considered strong, you should aim for at least a 28 or higher, as this puts you in the top 10% of test-takers. If you're targeting more selective colleges, a score of 30 or above would be more ideal (top 5%). For extremely competitive schools, you'll want to aim for a 33 or above (top 1-2%).
Keep in mind that different schools have different expectations, so research the average ACT scores of admitted students at the colleges you're interested in. Remember, while test scores are important, colleges also look at various other factors like your grades, course rigor, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations as part of their holistic review process. So, focusing on maintaining a well-rounded application is key. Good luck on your ACT preparation!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.