What is a Good ACT Score?
As you prepare for college admissions, understanding what constitutes a good ACT score can help you set realistic goals and maximize your chances of success. In this blog post, we'll discuss the ACT scoring system, provide a chart with ACT score percentiles, and explain how colleges use the 25th and 75th percentile scores in the admissions process. We'll also discuss how to set your own target ACT score and provide a link to the BigFuture tool to help you explore college options.
Understanding ACT Scores and Percentiles
The ACT consists of four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Each section is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, and your composite ACT score is the average of these four section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number.
To help you understand how your ACT score compares to those of other test-takers, ACT provides percentile rankings. A certain percentile indicates the percentage of test-takers who scored at or below your score. For example, if your ACT score is in the 90th percentile, it means that you scored higher than 90% of test-takers.
Here's a chart of ACT score percentiles for the composite score:
How Colleges Use 25th and 75th Percentile Scores
When evaluating applicants, colleges often publish their 25th and 75th percentile ACT scores. These percentiles represent the middle 50% of admitted students' scores, meaning that 25% of students scored below the 25th percentile and 25% scored above the 75th percentile.
By researching the 25th and 75th percentile scores of your desired colleges, you can get a sense of the competitiveness of their applicant pool and how your own score compares. Aiming for a score at or above the 75th percentile can make you a stronger candidate for admission, while a score below the 25th percentile may make it more difficult for you to gain acceptance.
Setting Your Target ACT Score
To set a target ACT score, begin by researching the 25th and 75th percentile scores for the colleges you're interested in. You can use the BigFuture tool to explore college options and find this information. Aim for a score at, or within the middle 50% range, as this will make you a competitive candidate. Keep in mind that a higher ACT score can also increase your chances of receiving scholarships and other financial aid.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, a good ACT score is one that helps you achieve your college admissions goals. It's essential to set realistic targets based on your abilities and the schools you're interested in attending. Remember, your ACT score is just one part of your college application, and other factors like your GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal essays also play a significant role in your overall competitiveness.
As you prepare for the ACT, focus on building a strong foundation in the test content, practicing regularly, and honing your test-taking strategies. By setting a target score and working diligently towards that goal, you'll be well on your way to achieving success on the ACT and increasing your chances of college admission.