The Role of ACT Scores in College Admission

ACT or American College Testing is a standardized examination that high school students take to gauge their readiness for higher education. Across the United States, universities use ACT scores and SAT scores as part of their admission criteria. This article delves into the significance of ACT scores in the college application process, explores target scores for different institutions, and discusses the evolving trend of test-optional admissions.

Understanding the ACT

The ACT is a multiple-choice test designed to evaluate the general educational development and potential success in college of high school students. It measures skills in English, mathematics, reading, science, and writing (though the writing section is optional). Universities in the USA typically require ACT scores, along with other factors such as GPAs, essays, and extracurricular activities, for undergraduate admission.

Target Scores for Admission

The ACT score scale ranges from 1 to 36, with the highest possible score being 36. A score of 21 or above is generally considered a good ACT score. For highly competitive institutions like Harvard and Dartmouth, a score of 30 or above is typically required. Yale, another prestigious institution, has an average ACT score of 35. It is crucial to keep your target school in mind and prepare accordingly.

ACT Scores and Their Weight in Admission Decisions

Colleges and universities typically consider ACT scores, just as they do SAT scores. However, many institutions have implemented a test-optional policy, which allows students to choose whether to submit their test scores. These policies often aim to increase the number of applications, as some applicants might feel assured that their strong applications would compensate for a lack of standardized test scores.

Despite the increasing popularity of test-optional policies, ACT scores serve an essential verification purpose. They are used to independently validate the claims made in a student's GPA and letters of recommendation (LORs). For instance, a student with a 4.0 GPA and a 1200 SAT score might not be as convincing as a student with a 3.6 GPA and a 1500 SAT score. This discrepancy could indicate that the student's high school is more challenging, and they are more competitive candidates if they showcase passion for extracurricular activities (ECs) and their major.

Conversely, a scenario where a student has a 3.8 GPA with a 1400 SAT score might be seen as less impressive. It is important to recognize that while GPA and test scores are significant factors, they are not the only considerations in the admissions process. "Holistic colleges" often take a more nuanced approach, evaluating various aspects of a student’s application.

Strategies and Considerations

It is advisable to aim for a high ACT score if it aligns with your goals. However, if your ACT score places you below the 50th percentile of your target college, it might be beneficial to avoid submitting it. If you can demonstrate your strengths through regional or state tournaments and public acclaim in your extracurricular activities, you might not need to report your ACT score.

For personalized advice, please provide details about your specific statistics, the state you are in, and your target colleges. Many colleges have different admission criteria, but test-optional policies generally make it advantageous to not submit a lower-than-expected ACT score.

Always remember that the goal is to present a well-rounded application that showcases your strengths and potential for success in higher education.

Note: This article is provided by a high school student and is intended to offer insights and general advice on the college admissions process.