Hey, I got my ACT scores back and I'm wondering, what's considered an average score on the writing section? I'm not sure how well I did in comparison.
For the ACT writing test, scores range from 2 to 12. When we talk about "average," we are referring to the median score of all test takers. The average score on the ACT writing test tends to be around 6-7 out of 12.
Every year, the average can vary a little based on the performance of the test population, but it generally hovers around this range. That said, remember that "average" doesn’t necessarily equate to "good enough" for specific schools. Some colleges might seek higher writing scores, particularly if you're applying to programs that prioritize strong writing skills.
Your writing score will probably matter most for highly selective colleges (those with sub-20% acceptance rates) and less for less selective colleges. It's always helpful to consider what range of scores is typical for admitted students at the colleges you are interested in attending.
If you're not satisfied with your writing score and believe it doesn’t represent your ability, you could consider retaking the ACT. Many students find they can improve their scores with additional preparation.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.