What are good ACT scores for high school?

While there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, a “good” ACT score is generally considered to be above the national average, which was 19.8 as of 2022. However, keep in mind that top-tier colleges and universities tend to have higher expectations, often looking for ACT scores in the 27-32 range or higher.

Is a 19 on the ACT good?

Ultimately, this means most students will perform in the average range. So, a lower number of test takers will fall on either extreme of the curve. The average ACT score is 19. Therefore, earning this score means you performed within the 50th percentile of test takers.

Is 18 on ACT bad?

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

What ACT score is needed for college?

Less selective institutions tend to accept scores closer to the national average (21), whereas more competitive universities often prefer scores in the 32-36 range.

Is 13 a bad ACT score?

ACT Test Score Ranges

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.

What Is a Good ACT Score in 2023? (High ACT Score Strategies Revealed)

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 a 11 bad on the ACT?

11 ACT Score Standings

You can apply to 2 colleges and have a good shot at getting admitted. You have a very low chance of getting into 1505 schools with this score.

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.

Can a high GPA make up for low ACT?

But if your child is applying to those very selective colleges and universities, I cannot stress enough how important having a high ACT score is to he/she being accepted. However, with most other schools, your child's high GPA and advanced classes will be enough to off-set a low ACT score.

What's a failing ACT score?

Any composite 16 or lower is in the bottom 25%. If you score below 16 or lower on the ACT, your score is definitely in the very low range nationwide.

Is 37 a good ACT score?

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

ACT score of 24+ = top 25% ACT score of 29+ = top 10% ACT of 31+ = top 5% ACT score of 35+ = top 1% of test-takers.

What is average ACT score 2023?

Scores on the ACT college admissions test fell to a 30-year low in 2023. The average composite score on the exam fell 0.3 points to 19.5 compared with 19.8 last year, according to the nonprofit group that administers the exam.

Do ACT scores matter in 2023?

Current figures estimate around 80% of four-year colleges won't require standardized tests for fall 2023 admissions, so the burning question remains: are SAT/ACT scores still important? The shorter answer is: yes. Just because scores are optional, it doesn't mean they aren't still important.

Is 15 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.

What ACT score is needed for Harvard?

Admissions Summary

Harvard College is extremely selective with an acceptance rate of 3%. Students that get into Harvard College have an ACT score of 34–36*.

Is the ACT harder 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.

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.

What to do if you get a bad ACT score?

Students wishing to retake the ACT can sign up for any National ACT test. Before the next test attempt, we strongly recommend that students review previous test scores and create a study plan to improve their scores. Check out ACT's free test prep resources.

Is a 27 bad on the ACT?

A 27 ACT score puts you at the 85th percentile, meaning you scored higher than 85% of test takers.

Has anyone ever gotten a 1 on the ACT?

The absolute minimum ACT score you can get is a 1, although this is very unlikely to happen. You might be more worried about getting a score high enough to get into college.

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.

Should I retake a 1370 SAT?

A 1370 is a solid score and it's quite commendable, so well done on that. However, if you're aiming for some of the more competitive schools, it may indeed be beneficial to consider a retake. Many of those institutions tend to have a median SAT score range that is higher than 1370.