So I just got a 30 on my ACT. Is this seen as a good score for college admissions? Feeling a bit anxious about how this will look on my applications.
Your feeling of anxiety about your ACT score is normal, but taking a deep breath and considering the bigger picture can help. A score of 30 is quite respectable, as it positions you in the 93rd percentile nationally - meaning you scored higher than 93% of test-takers.
However, whether a 30 is a "good" ACT score can depend on your college aspirations. If you're aiming for very selective schools (those that accept fewer than 20 percent of applicants), these schools often have middle 50% ACT scores in the low to mid 30s. In these instances, while your score of 30 might fall just below the average, it doesn't automatically disqualify you.
For schools that are a bit less selective but still well-regarded, a 30 is definitely a strong score. This might include state flagship universities and other notable institutions.
Remember, while your ACT score is an important part of your application, it is just one factor. Schools also consider your grades, course rigor, essays, extracurricular activities, and other factors. A holistic read of your application would definitely consider all these aspects. If other aspects of your application are strong, a 30 ACT score can be part of a successful application to many competitive schools.
Also, even if your ACT score might be slightly below the average for your dream schools, you can potentially compensate with extraordinary accomplishments or experiences, especially those that fit into higher tiers of the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars.
Lastly, don't forget that many colleges give you the option to retake standardized tests if you feel you can improve your score. Good preparation and familiarization with the test format can help you achieve this.
Remember to keep things in perspective. A test score isn't the whole picture, and a score of 30 on the ACT is definitely nothing to worry about. Good luck with your college applications!
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