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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

ACT score distribution - is it a good indicator?

Hey everyone! I've been looking into the distribution of ACT scores to gauge how well I'm doing compared to others. How much importance do colleges place on the score distribution? Is aiming for the top percentiles critical, or are there other factors a high school junior like me should be focusing on?

a year ago

When considering your scores in the context of college admissions, it's helpful to understand the percentile distribution of the ACT. However, it's only one aspect of your application. Colleges also focus on your GPA, course rigor, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.

While aiming for the top percentiles is essential for highly selective schools, it's not the sole factor in the admissions process. Most colleges use a holistic review, meaning they consider numerous aspects of your application. It's crucial to maintain a strong overall profile to be a competitive applicant.

As a high school junior, there are several factors you should focus on alongside your ACT score:

1. GPA: Maintain a strong GPA. Colleges look for applicants who consistently perform well academically.

2. Course Rigor: Challenge yourself by taking advanced courses such as AP, IB, or honors classes. Colleges want to see that you can handle demanding coursework.

3. Extracurricular Activities: Engage in activities you're passionate about and that demonstrate your interests and dedication. Aim for quality involvement in a few activities and strive for leadership roles if possible.

4. Recommendation Letters: Develop strong relationships with teachers and guidance counselors. These connections may lead to stellar recommendation letters later on.

5. College Essays: Start brainstorming essay ideas and work on crafting a compelling and unique story to set yourself apart from the competition.

6. College Research: Explore different colleges and their specific requirements, including the average ACT scores of accepted students. This information will give you a better idea of where your score stands in relation to various schools.

Remember that your ACT score is an essential component of your college application, but it isn't the only factor. Focus on building a robust profile and showcasing your strengths to increase your chances of being admitted to your desired college.

a year ago

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