Range of ACT Scores?

Hey everyone, I'm starting to look into college admissions and I'm curious about the ACT. What's the range of possible scores on the ACT and generally which scores are considered good for college applications?

The ACT is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with 36 being the highest possible score. Each of the four sections (English, Math, Reading, and Science) is scored individually on a scale of 1 to 36, and then the average of these four scores is calculated to produce your composite score. Here's a rough breakdown of ACT scores and their competitiveness:

1. 33-36: These are considered excellent scores and will make you a competitive applicant at most colleges and universities. Scoring in this range puts you in the top 10% of test-takers.

2. 27-32: These scores are considered good and show you are academically prepared for college. With these scores, you should have more options for college admissions, though you may not be considered extremely competitive at top-tier schools.

3. 20-26: These scores are considered average, and while you may be able to find colleges that admit students with these ACT scores, you might have limited options if you're aiming for more selective schools.

4. 1-19: These scores are considered below average and might limit your college options. It is recommended that you consider retaking the ACT or seeking additional academic support.

Keep in mind that while your ACT score is an important factor in college admissions, it's not the only thing that colleges consider. Your academic performance in high school, extracurricular involvement, letters of recommendation, and your college essays all play a role in the admissions process. It's essential to maintain a well-rounded profile to maximize your chances of being admitted to your preferred schools.