Understanding ACT scores: What makes for a good score?

I recently took the ACT and just received my scores. I'm not exactly sure what to make of them. What is considered a good ACT score, and what should I be aiming for in order to be competitive when applying to top colleges?

A good ACT score depends on the colleges you're targeting and your overall profile. For a general understanding, ACT scores range from 1 to 36, with an average score of around 21. Keep in mind that the scores also vary in percentiles, which indicate the percentage of test takers you've scored better than. For instance, a score of 21 puts you at the 64th percentile (as of recent data), meaning you've scored better than 64% of test takers.

To be competitive when applying to top colleges, you should aim for a score in the 90th percentile or higher. This typically corresponds to a score of 28 or above. However, aiming for the 95th percentile or higher (a score of 31+) would be even better, as it would set you apart from your peers when applying to selective colleges.

For the most prestigious schools like Ivy League institutions, an ACT score of 33-36 is common amongst admitted students. This places you in the top 1-2% of all test takers and is considered very competitive for these schools.

Remember that while a high ACT score is beneficial, it's just one aspect of your college application. Top colleges use a holistic approach when reviewing applications, so your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and essays are also crucial components. In addition to aiming for a high ACT score, focus on standing out through your other accomplishments.

Ultimately, research the average ACT scores of admitted students at the colleges you're interested in and aim for at least within that range. If you plan on retaking the test, doing so with a targeted study plan and pinpointing your weaker areas can help you improve your score. Don't forget that many colleges also superscore the ACT, meaning they'll combine the highest subscores from multiple test attempts to create your highest possible composite score, so taking the test multiple times can be beneficial.