What is a perfect score on the ACT exam?

I’m getting ready to take the ACT soon and I’ve heard there’s a perfect score you can achieve. I know it’s important to aim high for college applications, but I’m curious, what exactly is considered a perfect score on the ACT? Also, does achieving a perfect score make a big difference in college admissions, or is it more about having a well-rounded application? Trying to figure out where to focus my efforts as I prepare.

A perfect score on the ACT is 36. This score is the average of your scores from the four sections (English, Math, Reading, and Science), each of which is scored on a scale of 1-36. If you receive a score of 36, that means you've achieved the maximum score on each of these subtests.

However, it's important to understand that while a perfect score is certainly an impressive achievement, it doesn't guarantee acceptance into any particular college. While test scores are a component of the college admissions process, most schools consider a range of factors, in what is known as holistic admissions. This can include your coursework and grades, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and application essays. Over-emphasizing the importance of achieving a perfect score can overshadow your focus on these other key areas.

Not to suggest that higher scores aren't beneficial, of course. Achieving a high score on the ACT can make you a more competitive applicant for selective colleges and can also increase your eligibility for merit-based scholarships. However, keep in mind that a perfect score is not a necessity, even for top-tier schools. A score within the 75th percentile of accepted students at your target schools will usually be competitive.

Remember, each student’s situation is different, and what may work for one individual might not work for another. The best recommendation is to try to balance your preparation for standardized tests with the other key components of your application. This might include maintaining strong grades, taking rigorous courses, engaging in meaningful extracurriculars, and writing compelling application essays. Good luck!