What ACT scores should I aim for?

Hey guys, I'm a junior prepping for the ACT and feeling stressed about what score range I should target. Anyone got advice or info on good ACT scores to aim for?

Hi there! It's totally normal to feel stressed when preparing for the ACT - it's a significant test for many college applications. However, the "good" ACT score you should target largely depends on the colleges or universities you're interested in applying to. To determine the right score range, follow these steps:

1. Make a list of schools you're interested in applying to.

2. Research the average ACT scores for admitted students at those schools. You can typically find this information on the college's admissions website or by searching for "[College name] ACT score range" online.

3. Aim for a score within the middle 50% range for your target schools. This means that your score would fall between the 25th and 75th percentiles for students accepted at those colleges. If you're in this range, it means you'll have a competitive ACT score at that particular institution.

For example, if your dream school has an ACT middle 50% range of 28-33, you should aim for a score within that range, ideally at the higher end or above to improve your chances of admission.

Keep in mind that while standardized test scores are important, they're just one piece of the puzzle in the college admissions process. Your grades, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation also play a significant role. Focus on performing well on the ACT, but also be sure to spend time on other aspects of your application as well.

Lastly, remember that many schools have become test-optional in recent years. While you should still do your best on the ACT, some colleges may not require test scores or may give them less weight in the admissions process. Good luck with your test prep, and don't forget to take some practice tests to familiarize yourself with the test format and gauge your progress!