Scoring of ACT Writing

Hello! I'm preparing for the ACT and need a bit of clarification on the scoring of the ACT Writing section. How is it scored and reported? Does the Writing score carry as much weight as the other sections in the college admissions process?

Hello! I'd be happy to clarify the scoring for the ACT Writing section. The ACT Writing section is scored separately from the other sections of the test. Instead of being combined with your composite score (which ranges from 1 to 36, based on the average scores from the four other sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science), the Writing section is given its own score, ranging from 2 to 12.

Your ACT Writing score is determined by two graders, each of whom will assign a score between 1 and 6 based on four domains: ideas and analysis, development and support, organization, and language use and conventions. The two graders' scores are added together to get your final writing score between 2 and 12.

As for the weight of the Writing score in the college admissions process, it can vary. While it's generally viewed as less important than your composite score or individual section scores, some colleges may still consider it as part of their holistic review process. However, with many colleges becoming test-optional or even test-blind in recent years, the importance of the Writing section has arguably diminished. It's best to research the specific schools you're interested in attending to determine how much weight they place on the ACT Writing score.

Keep in mind that a strong essay can still be a positive addition to your application, showcasing your writing skills and critical thinking abilities. However, it's crucial also to focus on other aspects of your application, such as your grades, extracurricular activities, and recommendation letters.

Good luck with your ACT preparation!