UVA ACT Scores for Admission

Hey guys, I'm applying to the University of Virginia and I'm a little bit stressed about my ACT score. What kind of ACT scores do UVA typically accept? Is there a range I should be aiming for to be competitive? Any advice would be great!

Hi! It's understandable that you might worry about your ACT score when applying to the University of Virginia (UVA). To give you an idea of the competitive range, the middle 50% of accepted students at UVA typically have ACT scores of 32-35. Aiming for a score within that range or above would put you in a stronger position.

However, keep in mind that UVA practices a holistic admissions process, so your ACT score is only one part of your application. Admissions officers will also consider your essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and academic achievements. So, it's essential to focus on those aspects as well to create a well-rounded application.

If you're looking for tips on how to strengthen your overall application to UVA, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle their school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-university-of-virginia-essays/. After all, many applicants to UVA have strong academic credentials, so more intangible aspects of your profile, like the personality traits showcased in the essays, are often what admissions officers rely on when making their final decisions.

Additionally, UVA is currently test-optional, so you have the option to not submit standardized test scores if you believe they don't accurately reflect your potential, without being at a disadvantage. Just make sure to assess the strength of your overall application before deciding, as there can be instances where submitting a test score may still be a good idea. 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

In summary, to be competitive, aim for a score within or above the 32-35 ACT range, but remember that holistic admissions means every part of your application matters. Good luck with your application to UVA!