How much does my math ACT score matter?

When applying to colleges, how important is my math ACT score compared to my other sections? Would having a lower math score be a dealbreaker even if I'm not applying for a major related to math? Would love to hear your thoughts.

Your math ACT score does matter, but its importance varies depending on the colleges you're applying to and the major you're interested in pursuing. Generally speaking, colleges consider your composite ACT score, which takes into account all four sections (Math, English, Reading, and Science). However, individual section scores can be important in certain cases.

If you're applying for a major unrelated to math, such as humanities or social sciences, a lower math score may not be as significant as if you were applying for a STEM or business major. For STEM and business programs, colleges often place more emphasis on math and science scores because these fields require strong quantitative skills. That being said, it's important to demonstrate a well-rounded academic profile, even if you're not applying to a math-related major. A balanced ACT score is generally more favorable to admissions committees.

It's also worth noting that some colleges and programs may have specific ACT score requirements that you'll need to meet, so make sure to research the schools you're applying to and check if there are any minimum benchmarks for individual sections or composite scores. If your math score is significantly lower than the average of admitted students at a particular school, it may be worth considering retaking the ACT to improve your chances of admission.

Lastly, keep in mind that college admissions processes are typically holistic, meaning they look at various aspects of your application beyond just your test scores. Strong grades, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and essays are also crucial components of your application. If the rest of your profile is strong, a lower math ACT score may have less impact on your chances of admission. However, it's still important to aim for the best score possible in each section, as it can only help your application.