How important is the ACT for college admissions?

This might be a dumb question, but here goes: just how big of a deal is the ACT in the college admission process? I've heard it's called the 'triangle of the college application.' Can anyone explain why, or if they agree?

The ACT shaped a significant part of the college admissions process because it traditionally offered colleges a standardized method of assessing academic readiness across a diverse applicant pool. However, the importance of the ACT (and standardized testing in general) can vary widely depending on the schools to which you're applying. More and more colleges are adopting test-optional or even test-blind policies, meaning these schools do not require you to submit or even consider your ACT scores, respectively.

In 2024, the ACT remains relevant, but it's crucial to understand that it is just one part of the vast high school "resume" that colleges evaluate. Each school uses a different formula to consider elements like your GPA, the rigor of your coursework, your essay, your recommendations, and your extracurriculars.

The "triangle" metaphor you mentioned might refer to the idea that your academic profile (GPA and coursework rigor), standardized test scores (like the ACT or SAT), and your extracurriculars form a kind of "triumvirate" of essential factors in your application. However, remember that this varies widely between schools. For instance, Dartmouth College, Purdue University, and The University of Texas at Austin, among others, have reintroduced test scoring as a requirement for their 2024-2025 application cycle, while many others remain test-optional.

Overall, the ACT can still be a valuable component of your application, especially if you score well. A high score can reinforce a strong academic profile or compensate for slightly weaker grades. However, it's advisable to always check the specific test policies of the schools you are aiming to apply to.