Is a 28 on the ACT competitive?

Hey guys, I recently took the ACT and got a 28. I'm just wondering if this is a good score for applying to decent colleges? What kind of schools should I be aiming for with this score? Thanks in advance!

A 28 on the ACT is indeed a competitive score! It places you in the 88th percentile of test-takers, meaning that you scored higher than about 88% of students who took the exam. With a 28, you will be considered a strong applicant at many colleges and universities. While a 28 might not be considered as competitive for top-tier or Ivy League schools, there are plenty of respected institutions where your score will be on par with or even above their average admitted student's score.

To determine the right schools for you, it's essential to consider how your ACT score aligns with the middle 50% range of scores for the colleges you're interested in. The middle 50% range represents the ACT scores of the 25th to 75th percentile of admitted students, so if your score falls within this range, you'll have a good chance of being admitted. However, keep in mind that many schools have a holistic admissions process, so factors like your grades, extracurricular activities, and essays will also play a part.

Schools that have mid-range ACT scores in the 26-30 range include various state universities like the University of Florida, University of Maryland, and the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Many smaller liberal arts colleges such as Wesleyan University, Grinnell College, and Macalester College also fall within this range.

Finally, if you're aiming for more selective schools, you can consider retaking the ACT to improve your score. However, with a 28, you're already in a good position for a range of excellent colleges. Focus on building other aspects of your application, like strong essays and showcasing your extracurricular involvement, to present a well-rounded and compelling application package.