ACT ScoresAnswered
Hello everyone. I have a question about test scores. So at my high school, all test scores (SAT, ACT, AP) are put on your transcript. This means that regardless of what I submit, colleges will see all of my test scores. The problem is, I took the ACT last June and fell ill during the test. My sub-scores were as following: 35, 29, 25, 15. (english, math, reading, science, respectfully) Even though I took the SAT last November and got 1470 and took it again last month (730R,800M), I am nervous that the one low score I earned on the ACT would be a red flag on my application. I don't want colleges to think I didn't take it seriously, especially considering the large drop off. My question is, will colleges look down on me for that one bad score, and if so, is there anything I can do to try and clarify that situation to admissions? Thank you.
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2 answers
Hey there @SeanRanieri!
Firstly, that ACT is the first one you took, and seeing as your SATs are a lot higher and taken later on, colleges may see that as an improvement actually. They may see that you realized you needed to improve upon your standardized scores and made the right choices and worked hard to do so. You could be demonstrating grit and dedication to your potential colleges with this.
Even if the colleges you apply to take this only at face value and see only a low score, you can often request or just directly submit a personal statement in addition to your Common App explaining the situation to the school. Once you apply to a school and get your login information for your admissions profile, you'll be able to contact them through email to ask more about submitting a personal statement.
Good luck with everything!
I agree with chaotic.mz. But if you can retake the ACT, depending on which grade you're in right now, do so. If you'll be starting 12th grade in September, see if you can study for the ACT over the summer and retake it as soon as possible.
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