How much do colleges care about the ACT?

The short answer: No. All colleges that consider test scores in 2023 accept both the ACT and SAT for admissions and don't discriminate based on which test applicants take. The biggest reason why you might think a college prefers one test is that a college typically receives more of one test than the other.

Do colleges care about ACT anymore?

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 care when you take the ACT?

You can't choose which test scores they will see; schools will see them all. However, they will not know that you also took the ACT in October, and they won't know what your scores were on that administration.

How important is the ACT to colleges?

Colleges use ACT scores to place you in the right classes at the right level. And, your ACT score can help you place out of remedial coursework rather than sitting for additional placement tests on campus — saving time and money!

Do colleges care more about GPA or ACT scores?

Although the ACT is given a lot of weight, the GPA is still a huge component of your application.

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

Option #2: You can check out test optional schools or schools that have guaranteed admission based on GPA or class rank. Many colleges out there no longer require the SAT or ACT to be considered for admission. Consider applying to some of those schools, at least as backups.

How many colleges accept an 18 ACT score?

18 ACT Score Standings

Out of the 1.91 million test-takers, 1225478 scored the same or higher than you. You can apply to 113 colleges and have a good shot at getting admitted. You have a very low chance of getting into 1394 schools with this score.

Is 17 good on the ACT?

Below Average Score Range: 1-16. Average Score Range: 17-24. Above Average Score Range: 25-36.

Is 19 a good 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.

Is a 22 on the ACT bad?

Is 22 a good ACT score? A 22 ACT score is above the national average score of 21, making you eligible to apply as a good candidate to many colleges.

What is a good ACT score for a junior?

We've already noted that a 19 is an average ACT score, at the 50th percentile. A score of 24 means you've scored better than about 78% of students. A 28 means you've scored better than 90% of students, and a 30 means you've scored better than 94% of them!

Do colleges prefer ACT or SAT?

You may have heard that colleges in some states prefer the ACT while others gravitate towards the 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.

Do colleges care how many times you take the ACT?

You can take the ACT up to 12 times, and many students end up taking the test between 2-3 times before applying to college. Most colleges are neutral about multiple scores. Many students, in fact, make score improvements by retaking the ACT. Give yourself time to improve before you begin filling out applications.

Why are colleges getting rid of ACT?

Like many universities, it had begun to question the fairness, validity and equity of tests like the ACT and SAT. Colleges and universities across the nation have been turning away from requiring standardized testing as part of their admissions process for the past two or three years.

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.

Do ACT scores matter anymore?

In conclusion, while the importance of the ACT and SAT exams may vary depending on the college or university, it's still essential to consider these exams as part of the college admissions and financial aid process.

Is 13 a bad ACT score?

Scores below a 15 on the ACT are considered low at just about any four-year college. You can overcome low scores with a great GPA or an outstanding college application. But even if you're accepted, the school may ask you to take some remedial courses before enrolling.

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 27 a bad ACT score?

Is a 27 ACT Score (85th Percentile) Good? A 27 ACT score puts you a good deal about the national average (20.8) and makes you eligible for acceptance at a vast majority of schools. It also makes you competitive at some selective institutions, as well as eligible for merit aid!

Is 27 a good ACT score for a junior?

Is 27 ACT Score Good? 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. The exception may be the Ivy League where the score required may be higher than 30 on average.

What's the lowest ACT score Harvard has accepted?

The average ACT score of Harvard-accepted students is 33. Although Harvard claims there is no minimum ACT score, if you apply with a 29 or lower, you'll have difficulty getting in. So, to get into Harvard, it is important to note the different Harvard University requirements for test scores.

Is a 30 bad on the ACT?

Because of all this, a 30 ACT score is definitely considered good! To help you understand your standing within all test takers, a score of 30 on the ACT puts you at the 93rd percentile, meaning you scored higher than 93% of all test takers.

What is a low ACT score?

For the general population, scores of 16 and below (so, scores that are lower than those of 75% of the population) could reasonably be considered low.

Is 18 a good ACT score for a junior?

Is 18 a good ACT score? A score of 18 on the ACT doesn't give you a whole ton of options for college, nor does it make you a competitive applicant at most. To make yourself a prime candidate, you'll want to earn a score closer to the national average, which is 20.8.

Is it hard to get a 18 on the ACT?

Earning an 18 on the ACT puts you at the 38th percentile, meaning that you scored higher than 38% of all test takers.