Is an ACT score of 22 competitive for college admissions?

Hey everyone! I just received my ACT scores and I got a 22. I'm honestly not sure if this is a good score. Can I still get into decent colleges with this score, or should I retake the ACT to improve my chances?

A score of 22 on the ACT is considered slightly below the national average, which falls around 20.5 to 21.5. While your score might not be competitive for highly selective colleges, you can still be admitted to many colleges and universities. However, if you're aiming for more competitive schools, you may want to retake the ACT to improve your score.

Before deciding whether or not to retake the test, consider the following factors:

1. Your target schools: Research the average ACT scores for admitted students at the colleges you're interested in. If your score falls within or above the middle 50% range, you're in a good position. If not, you may want to consider a retake.

2. Time and resources: Retaking the ACT requires time, effort, and money. Assess whether you have the resources and time to prepare and improve your score before making a decision.

3. Other parts of your application: Colleges consider various parts of your application, not just test scores. Make sure your grades, extracurricular activities, and personal essays are strong and showcase your potential. If you feel you have a strong application apart from the test score, your current ACT score might be sufficient.

4. Test-optional schools: Many colleges have adopted test-optional admissions policies, allowing you to choose whether or not to submit your ACT scores. If your score isn't a strong point of your application, you may want to consider applying to test-optional schools.

Ultimately, the decision to retake the ACT should be based on your target schools, overall application strength, and your ability to invest time and resources into your preparation. Good luck with your college application process!