Is a 32 on the ACT Good Enough?

Just got my ACT scores back and I scored a 32. I'm wondering if that's considered a good score for competitive college admissions? Should I retake the test or focus on other parts of my application? Thanks for the advice!

A 32 on the ACT is certainly considered a competitive score, as it puts you in the 94th percentile of test-takers. This means you've outperformed 94% of students who took the ACT. Many competitive colleges would view a 32 as a strong score, and it would likely be well-received at most mid-tier and some top-tier schools.

However, if you're aiming for highly selective or Ivy League colleges, you might consider trying for a slightly higher score. For these top-tier institutions, a 34 or higher is generally considered more competitive. It's essential to keep in mind that there is no definitive "good enough" score for all colleges, as each school has its unique admissions criteria, and plus, test scores are just one factor they consider.

Ultimately, whether you should retake the test depends on the schools you're targeting and what their average ACT scores are for admitted students. Research the specific schools that interest you to get a better understanding of their expectations when it comes to ACT scores. If your score is at or above the middle 50% for these schools, you're in a good position. On the other hand, if your score falls below that range, you may want to consider retaking the test.

Also, evaluate other aspects of your application, such as your GPA, course rigor, extracurricular activities, and essays. If these are strong, and your score is within or even a little below your target schools' range, you might consider focusing on other parts of your application instead of retaking the test. Remember that college admissions look at the whole applicant, not just test scores. Your time may be better spent improving your overall application rather than trying to marginally increase your ACT score.

In conclusion, a 32 on the ACT is considered a strong score and may be competitive enough for many colleges. However, the decision to retake the test depends on the schools you're aiming for and the strength of the other aspects of your application. Best of luck with your standardized testing journey and overall college process!