What are typical ACT scores for college applicants?

I'm working towards creating my college list, and I want to make sure my ACT score is competitive. What are the typical ACT scores for college applicants, generally speaking? I know it varies by school, but I'm looking for a ballpark figure to start with. Thanks for any help!

While it's true that ACT scores can vary greatly depending on the college or university you're applying to, there is some general data available to give you a rough idea of what scores you should aim for. The ACT is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with the national average around 20 to 21. However, this average may not accurately represent the score range competitive for most colleges.

For the majority of colleges and universities, an ACT score in the mid-20s to low-30s will be competitive. Here's a general breakdown to help guide you:

- Less selective schools: ACT score 20-25

- Moderately selective schools: ACT score 25-30

- Highly selective schools: ACT score 30-34

- Top-tier/Ivy League schools: ACT score 33-36

Keep in mind, these are just general guidelines. Before finalizing your college list, research the specific ACT score ranges for each institution you're interested in. Use the 25th-75th percentile of admitted students' scores as a benchmark; aim for a score in the upper half of that range to be competitive.

Additionally, remember that colleges look at the whole applicant, not just test scores. Although a strong ACT score can help boost your application, factors such as your GPA, course rigor, extracurricular activities, and essays play significant roles in the admissions process as well. So, in addition to studying well for the ACT, make sure to focus on building a well-rounded application. Good luck!