Understanding ACT Scores - What's Considered a Good Score?

Hi there, folks! I’m a junior who's preparing for ACT. I know the scoring range is 1-36 for each section, but what's considered to be a good or solid score? Like what should be my target to ensure a strong college application?

Well, the answer to this can depend somewhat on the kinds of schools you're aiming for, so it's not a one-size-fits-all situation. But, generally speaking, a score of 20 is considered to be approximate average, as it's at the median of scoring.

More competitive schools usually seek students with scores of 30 and above; some of the most selective universities often have average ACT scores of 34 or higher for their admitted students. However, keep in mind that many factors can influence what a "good" ACT score is, such as the admission rate of the school, the average test scores of admitted students, and the level of competition among applicants.

One useful tactic could be to look up the middle 50% ACT scores for the schools you are interested in. These scores reflect the range in which the middle half of admitted students' scores fall. For example, if a school’s middle 50% ACT range is 31-34, that means 25% of admitted students scored below a 31 and 25% scored above a 34.

Do remember though, standardized test scores aren't the only element in your application. GPA, coursework rigor, and extracurricular involvement also play significant roles in the admission decision process. It's important to aim for a balance of strong scores, high academic performance, and meaningful extracurricular involvement. Good luck with your preparation!