A good ACT score largely depends on the colleges and universities you’re aiming to apply to. However, there are general benchmarks that can help guide your expectations:
General ACT Score Ranges:
- Below 20: This is generally considered a lower score. It might limit your options, but many state universities or less competitive colleges will still accept students in this range.
- 20-24: This is considered an average score. Many colleges will accept students within this range, including mid-tier public universities.
- 25-29: These are strong scores. Students with scores in this range are competitive at a variety of schools, including selective public universities and private colleges.
- 30+: A score of 30 or above is considered excellent and will make you competitive at top-tier schools, including elite private universities and highly selective public institutions.
Top ACT Scores:
- 33-36: Scores in this range are considered exceptional and will make you very competitive at the most selective colleges in the U.S., such as Ivy League schools and other top-tier institutions.
What’s a Good ACT Score for You?
The best score for you depends on the schools you’re applying to:
- Research Your Target Schools: Look at the average ACT scores of students admitted to the colleges you’re interested in. Most schools will list their average or 25th-75th percentile scores on their admissions websites.
- For example, Harvard has an average ACT score around 33-35, while a state school may have an average closer to 24-28.
- Consider the 25th-75th Percentile Range: Some schools provide a range of scores (e.g., the 25th percentile is the score at or above which 25% of admitted students fall). If your score is within or above that range, you’re on track for a good chance of admission.
Improving Your Score:
If your goal is to achieve a higher score, it’s helpful to know where you can improve. Focus on:
- Time management: Practice taking full-length tests within the time limits.
- Identifying weak areas: Focus on the sections (English, Math, Reading, Science) where you’re scoring lower and use resources like prep books or online courses to boost those areas.
- Test-taking strategies: Practice answering easier questions quickly to ensure you have time to work through more difficult ones.
Would you like help with a strategy for improving your score or tips for specific sections of the ACT?
