21 ACT Score: Realistic College Goals?

So, I recently got my ACT score back and it turns out I got a 21. I'm trying to figure out what realistic college options I have with this score, or if I should plan to retake it. I know that there are schools that accept a range of scores, but I want to make sure I'm setting myself up for success.

Do you guys have recommendations for colleges where a 21 ACT is competitive? Should I focus on strengthening other parts of my application instead? Any advice for a junior feeling a little stuck would be appreciated!

First off, remember that while your ACT score is a notable factor in your application, it is not the sole determinant. Admissions committees take a holistic approach to reviewing applications, so while strengthening your testing performance can help, it's important to also focus on other components of your application like maintaining good grades, engaging in extracurricular activities, writing a compelling personal statement, and getting strong recommendations.

Now, to give you some context, an ACT score of 21 falls approximately in the 50th percentile, meaning that it's the average score among all test-takers. This score is certainly competitive at many colleges and universities, though it might fall short for more selective institutions.

Colleges where your ACT score would be within the middle 50% range include some state universities such as the University of Nevada, Reno; University of Arizona; and Oregon State University, among others. You may also want to consider test-optional schools, particularly those that appreciate unique experiences and personal qualities, as test-optional schools tend to place more emphasis on essays and extracurricular activities when making admissions decisions.

If you have the opportunity to retake the ACT and believe you can improve your score with some focused prep work, it might be a good option. However, remember to balance this with ensuring other aspects of your application are as strong as they can be. You should primarily focus on creating the most well-rounded application possible.

Lastly, use this as an opportunity to deeply reflect on what you want out of your college experience. Identify what academic fields you're interested in, what kind of student culture and campus environment you're seeking, and what resources and opportunities you value most. This can help guide your college search and ensure that, regardless of test scores, you're focusing on schools that are the right fit for you personally.