21 ACT Score Scholarships

Hi all! So I got a 21 on my ACT, and I'm starting to look into scholarship opportunities. Does anyone know of any specific scholarships geared towards students with similar scores? I know it's not a super high score, but I'm still hoping there's something out there for me!

Hello! While a 21 ACT score may not qualify you for merit-based scholarships at most universities that are tied directly to test scores, there are still plenty of scholarship opportunities out there for you to explore. Many scholarships are based on factors other than test scores, such as community service, leadership, extracurricular involvement, or personal essays.

Here are some examples of scholarships that don't focus on high test scores:

1. The Horatio Alger Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded based on financial need, commitment to pursuing a bachelor's degree, and a display of integrity and perseverance in the face of adversity.

2. The Gates Scholarship: This highly competitive scholarship, which covers full tuition and fees, is awarded to exceptional, Pell Grant-eligible, minority high school seniors based on factors such as leadership, academic success, and community involvement.

3. The Coca-Cola Scholars Program: This program awards scholarships based on leadership, service, and academic achievement, rather than test scores.

4. Local businesses, clubs, and organizations: Many community-based scholarships don't place a heavy emphasis on test scores, so make sure to research opportunities available in your area.

To find more scholarships, use scholarship search engines like Fastweb and Scholarships.com. Keep in mind that applying for many smaller scholarships can add up over time and significantly contribute to your college expenses. Additionally, you can always apply for need-based aid by submitting the FAFSA to the colleges you're applying to - your ACT score won't impact your eligibility for need-based aid.

Good luck with your scholarship search!