31 ACT Score - Is it 'Good' Enough?

I recently scored a 31 on my ACT and I'm a little anxious about whether it's 'good' enough. Is it competitive for most colleges? Do I need to retake it or can I just chill now?

The ACT score of 31 is a strong score that places you in approximately the 95th percentile of all ACT test takers. This implies that you've scored better than about 95% of students who took the same test.

However, the competitiveness of your score largely depends on the universities you're aiming for. If you plan to apply for admission to highly selective or Ivy League schools — like Harvard, Yale or Stanford, for instance — where the average ACT scores of admitted students typically range from 33 to 35, you might consider retaking the exam to enhance your chances. That being said, always remember that these schools have holistic admission procedures, and standardized test scores are just one factor among many.

On the other hand, if your schools of interest are within the range of mid-tier to less selective, a 31 ACT score would be considered highly competitive. Most universities in this category have average ACT scores that sit below, or in the neighborhood of, 31.

In conclusion, the decision on whether to retake the ACT depends primarily on the schools you're targeting. In any case, a 31 is still a commendable score and you should take pride in it. Consider enhancing other aspects of your application, such as your GPA, your essays, and your extracurriculars, to make your application stand out. Such a balanced approach tends to make for a compelling application.