National ACT test scores

Hey everyone, a bit stressed out about the ACT test coming up. What's the national average ACT score to give me an idea of where I should aim to score highly on the test?

Hey there! I understand that taking standardized tests like the ACT can be stressful. To give you an idea of the national average, the ACT score in recent years has hovered around 19 to 21 out of the maximum 36 points. Keep in mind that the national average includes students from all backgrounds, so this number will be a mix of both high and low scores.

However, it's important to remember that what's considered a "high" ACT score depends on the colleges or universities you're interested in applying to. If you're targeting more selective universities, you should aim for an ACT score that falls within the middle 50% of accepted students.

A good approach is to research the middle 50% ACT scores for each school on your list to help set a personalized target score. Once you have a target score, use study materials and practice tests to improve in areas where you might have weaknesses. Don't forget to also work on time management and test-taking strategies. It's a good idea to take several practice tests to become more comfortable with the format and timing of the test.

Lastly, remember that while standardized test scores are important, they're not the only factor in the college admissions process. Make sure to also focus on other aspects of your application, like your GPA, extracurricular activities, and essays. Good luck!