Do colleges really care about ACT?

Both ACT and SAT scores are used for college admissions decisions and awarding merit-based scholarships. Most colleges do not prefer one test over the other. Neither the SAT nor the ACT is harder than the other.

Do colleges actually care about ACT scores?

College admission tests like the SAT and ACT are standardized tests typically taken in your junior or senior year. Colleges use scores from these tests to help them make admission decisions. Each college has its own admission processes and policies, and they use scores differently.

Do colleges look at ACT anymore?

Though many four-year colleges and universities in the United States require ACT or SAT scores for admission, these days, many do not. Colleges that don't require ACT scores are known as "test-optional" schools.

Do ACT scores really matter?

Some colleges may offer automatic scholarships to students who achieve a certain score on the ACT or SAT. Other schools may use test scores as one factor in awarding merit-based aid, so higher scores can increase your student's overall eligibility for scholarships and grants.

Is the ACT a good indicator of college success?

At times, an ACT score can give some indication of success at college. However, it seems that the best predictor of college success is a student's GPA in high school, as it correlates to both college graduation rates and college GPA.

Do colleges really not care if you take the SAT or ACT?

Is ACT or GPA more important?

When it comes to the GPA and the ACT, students often wonder which one is more important. Although college admissions officers often say that they give much more weight to a student's GPA, even they will admit that your ACT score is of considerable importance.

Does ACT score or GPA matter more?

Contrary to the claims of many college admissions officers, one score does seem to matter more than the other. While your GPA plays an important role, most schools will place greater importance on your ACT score.

Is 27 a decent ACT score?

With a score of 27, you are in the 87th percentile of all test takers. More likely than not, with a score of 27, you'll often be in or near the commonly accepted range at selective colleges.

Is a score of 14 on the ACT good?

Each section has a test score range of 1-36: Below Average Score Range: 1-16. Average Score Range: 17-24. Above Average Score Range: 25-36.

Is 20 a decent ACT score?

A good ACT score ranks you higher than the majority of test-takers. As such, any composite score above the 50th percentile, or 19-20, can be considered a solid score. That said, a 20 won't cut it at many competitive colleges.

Why are colleges getting rid of ACT?

“In essence, we are eliminating our reliance on a high-stress, high-stakes test that has shown negligible benefit and providing our applicants with greater opportunities to demonstrate their drive, talents and potential for college success.”

Do colleges prefer ACT or SAT?

This is a common misconception. Colleges don't have a preference between the SAT or ACT so it's important to know how to choose the test that's right for you. Both tests are widely accepted across U.S. colleges—including those that are test optional.

Do any colleges not accept ACT?

Yes, there are many colleges in the US that don't require ACT or SAT scores. Some of them include New York University, University of Southern California, and many more. These are known as test-optional universities.

Should I send all ACT scores?

While most colleges are fine with receiving just one set of ACT scores, there are many—including some high-profile schools—that require your entire testing history.

Is the ACT easier than SAT?

The SAT is not harder than the ACT. Both tests vary slightly in terms of subjects covered and structure. These variations can affect each test-taker differently, making one exam more challenging than the other. Taking full-length practice tests of each type can help you determine which may be best suited for you.

Is 17 a low ACT score?

In general, many US colleges and universities accept applicants with 16 or 17 ACT scores. In fact, an ACT score of 16 or lower is accepted by 33 schools. On the other hand, an ACT score of 17 or lower is accepted by 58 schools.

Is 1200 a good ACT score?

For example, a score in the 75th percentile (approximately a 1200 on the SAT or a 24 on the ACT) would likely be strongly considered at most competitive colleges, while applicants scoring in the 90th percentile or higher (a 1350 on the SAT or a 29 on the ACT) would likely be well received even at highly competitive ...

Is 37 a good ACT score?

So, to recap, compared to all test-takers:

ACT score < 16 = bottom 35% ACT score of 21 = right in the middle! (average score) ACT score of 24+ = top 25%

Can I get a full ride with a 27 ACT?

Your score should be above 30 ACT score. Actually, some may provide scholarships at 25 ACT score and above but to get the good amount of scholarships your score should be 30 above. To get a full ride from your fees your score should be in the range of 32–36.

Should I retake the ACT if I got a 34?

After getting to know you better, they'll be able to recommend a list of schools for further research. Even if you're applying to the Ivy League institutions, there isn't an incredible need to retake the ACT. An ACT score of 34 lands you solidly in their average acceptance area.

Can I get into Harvard with a 27 ACT?

There's no absolute ACT requirement at Harvard, but they really want to see at least a 34 to have a chance at being considered.

What if I have a high GPA but low ACT scores?

Can a High GPA Make Up for a Low Test Score? Yes, to some extent, a high GPA can make up for a lower test score. Universities and colleges are increasingly looking at the entire profile of the student rather than a single metric.

Is it okay to do bad on your first ACT?

Don't give too much importance to your first real SAT or ACT. Most students perform a lot better when they take the test again—in fact, it's a rare student who only needs to take the test once!

Will not submitting ACT scores hurt?

If scores are not sent, the school simply bases their admission decision off the rest of the application. Test optional schools will not look negatively upon students who choose to not submit test scores. They are “test optional” for a reason, so no need to worry about that.

Will a 36 ACT get you into Harvard?

Aim for a 1580 SAT and 36 ACT (the 75th percentile)

The middle 50% of Harvard's class of 2025 earned SAT scores of 1480-1580 and ACT scores of 33-36. Any score in the middle 50% is good, however, the higher in the range you score, the better your odds of admission are.