ACT score of 27 - Should I be happy with it?

Hi guys, I just got my ACT score and ended up with a 27. Are there good chances to get into solid colleges with this score? Any input would be greatly appreciated!

An ACT score of 27 is a respectable score, as it puts you in the 85th percentile of all test takers. This statistic means you scored better than 85% of students who took the ACT. With a score of 27, you definitely have opportunities to get into solid colleges.

However, it's essential to keep in mind that different colleges have different average ACT scores for their admitted students, so you'll want to research the schools you're interested in to determine if your score is within the range they typically accept. Additionally, some schools have a holistic approach to reviewing applications, so even if your ACT score is slightly below their average range, strong essays, a solid GPA, and/or excellent extracurricular achievements could still make you a competitive applicant.

It is worth noting that many colleges are currently operating under test-optional policies, which allow you to apply without submitting an ACT (or SAT) score. However, depending on your personal circumstances, your ACT score could end up being a significant piece of your application. For detailed guidance on how to navigate test-optional policies, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional/

As you build your college list, consider a mix of schools: reach, target, and safety. Reach schools are those where your scores and application may be below the average admitted student profile and are less likely to gain admission. Target schools are those where your scores and application are in line with the average admitted student profile, and you have a reasonable chance of being admitted. Safety schools are institutions where your scores and application significantly exceed the average admitted student profile, giving you a high probability of acceptance.

If you're wondering how you stack up at a particular school, check out CollegeVine's free chancing engine, which factors in not just your ACT score, but also your grades, extracurriculars, course rigor, and so on, to give you personalized odds of acceptance at hundreds of colleges around the country: https://www.collegevine.com/admissions-calculator/. The calculator will also give you tips for how to improve your chances of acceptance - studying for an ACT retake could potentially be wise, but it's possible your energy would be more productively spent on some other element of your college applications.

Overall, while standardized test scores are a factor in the college admissions process, they are just one piece of the puzzle. Make sure to develop a balanced and well-rounded application, by highlighting your strengths in each area. Good luck with your college search!