Is a 23 on the ACT Competitive?

Hey everyone! I got a 23 on my ACT and I'm a little unsure about how competitive that score is. For colleges that mainly consider standardized test scores, would a 23 make me a strong contender?

While an ACT score of 23 is above the national average of roughly 20.5, it might not be competitive for many selective or highly selective colleges. If the colleges you're considering place a significant emphasis on standardized test scores, you might find that your 23 is below their average accepted scores.

The percentile for an ACT score of 23 currently sits around the 68th percentile, which means you scored higher than 68% of all test-takers. This is certainly not a poor score, but for colleges with rigorous admissions, especially those with an average ACT score of 28 or higher, a 23 might not be as competitive. It's always worth researching the score averages of the specific schools you're interested in to provide a more concrete understanding of where you stand in their application pool.

However, keep in mind that test scores are just one factor that admissions evaluate. Your GPA, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and personal essays all contribute to your application. Highlighting your strengths in these areas can certainly make up for a score that may not be as competitive.

Also, remember, many schools have shifted to being test-optional recently, which means they do not require or consider ACT or SAT scores in their admissions process. This is especially pertinent for schools that are less focused on standardized test scores.

It may be worth considering whether or not to retake the ACT depending on your educational goals and the requirements of the schools to which you're applying. Preparing effectively for a retake could potentially boost your score and make you more competitive. However, if the rest of your application is strong, or if you're applying to test-optional schools, this might not be necessary.

In conclusion, a 23 ACT score is decent—it is above average nationally—but it may not be considered "competitive" for some selective schools if they place a significant weight on standardized testing. "Competitive" really depends on what schools you're looking at, what other qualifications you offer, and the specific program or department to which you're applying.