Do colleges still want ACT scores?

While the need for submitting SAT/ACT scores has lessened, there are still some universities that require the test scores on applications. SAT and ACT scores have historically been key to the college admissions process, but that's changing quickly.

Do colleges look at ACT scores 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.

Are ACT scores important to get into college?

Depends on the college. Some want you to take either the SAT or ACT; some don't require tests; and some are currently test-optional. If a college requires a test, you may assume your score is important. If it's test-optional, a very good score could help your application.

Is it better to not submit ACT scores to colleges?

Here's when you might want to consider not sending your SAT/ACT scores: If they are below the 25th percentile for the school applying to. If they do not “elevate” your application and are relatively low in comparison to your GPA, AP scores, etc.

Do colleges take ACT seriously?

The ACT is Accepted

So you can rest easy knowing that if you take the ACT, you do not need to take the SAT to get into college. In terms of nominal legitimacy, the ACT is equal to or even above the SAT. Universities will accept ACT takers universally.

College Admission Officers, What Made You Declined A Student?

Do colleges prefer SAT or ACT?

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.

Does not submitting ACT scores look bad?

Although it may seem doubtful schools really won't penalize you for not submitting test scores, they've put rigorous admission policies in place in order to ensure the process is fair and equal between applicants, whether they submitted scores or not.

Do ACT scores still matter?

Yes, standardized tests still matter. For students applying to academically selective colleges in the US, they should still take and submit their ACT or SAT scores.

Does a bad ACT score matter?

Admissions committees also look at your high school transcript, extracurricular activities, essays, and other factors to assess your overall potential as a student. Don't worry if your ACT score falls slightly below the average;, a well-rounded application can still open doors.

What's the lowest ACT score to get into college?

What is the lowest ACT score a college will accept? 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.

What's the lowest ACT score you can get?

The ACT is scored on a scale of 1-36, meaning that the absolute minimum ACT score you could get is 1. This composite score is calculated by taking the average of all four section scores (English, Math, Reading, and Science) and rounding (so anything ending with a . 5 would round up).

What if I never took the SAT or ACT?

Many colleges and universities are now ““test optional” so you can apply without taking the SAT or ACT. Check into the specific colleges you'd like to attend. Find out if they are test-optional, or if they would waive the test scores requirement for a mature student.

Do colleges accept low ACT scores?

What is the lowest ACT score colleges will accept? Colleges generally consider a minimum ACT score of 12 for admission. Scores below this threshold may pose challenges in the admission process, impacting your chances of acceptance.

Does it hurt to send ACT scores to colleges?

High SAT/ACT scores can boost your admission chances, especially at highly selective schools. Some test-optional colleges require standardized tests to award merit-based aid. Consider withholding your scores if they fall well below your school's middle 50% range.

Should I delete my ACT score?

See our guide to good, bad, and excellent ACT scores to see if the score you're worried about is in range for your target schools. Don't delete a score unless you're positive it's bad. This is especially true if your composite was lower than you wanted, but you had some high section scores.

What if I think my ACT score is wrong?

If you think there is an error (on any information other than your test scores), write to ACT Customer Support—Score Reports at the above address within three months of receiving your score report. Enclose a photocopy or printed pdf of your Student Report describing the error and the change you are requesting.

Are colleges waiving ACT scores for 2024?

Recently, more schools have adopted test-optional or test-blind admissions policies. In fact, more than 1,900 schools will not require applicants to submit scores for fall 2024 admission, according to the National Center for Fair and Open Testing, a nonprofit advocacy group commonly known as FairTest.

Why are colleges getting rid of SAT?

In an October 2022 webinar called “Preparing for a Supreme Court Decision Involving Race-Conscious Admissions,” NACAC officials similarly advised college admissions officers to “eliminate consideration of applicants' ACT and SAT scores because they reflect a variety of biases related to race and ethnicity” as well as “ ...

Why are colleges not requiring ACT?

Why don't universities require ACT or SAT standardized tests for college admissions anymore? The ACT and SAT are seen by some as being unfair, racist and not a true determiner of a student's academic capability. These are just some of the reasons that standardized tests have been made optional.

Why take ACT instead of SAT?

Both tests evaluate your skills in reading, writing, and math. However, the ACT goes a step further by offering an optional essay component that can highlight your writing skills to provide a more well-rounded assessment of your academic abilities.

Is the ACT harder than the 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.

When should my child take the SAT or ACT?

Although you may take the SAT any time starting freshman year, most students take it for the first time in the spring of their junior year and possibly retake it in the fall of their senior year.

What if I never took the ACT?

Even test-optional colleges often require a test score when awarding merit-based scholarships. Without an ACT score, you could be missing out on thousands of dollars in scholarship money.

Can I get into Ivy League without SAT?

All eight Ivy League schools will continue to have test-optional policies for the 2022-23 application cycle. While high SAT scores are an asset, they're just one metric that colleges consider. Students should aim to score in the 75th percentile among admitted students.