Hey everyone! Just a quick question: what's the average ACT score these days? I want to have an idea of where I should aim in terms of my own testing efforts. Thanks!
Hi there! The average ACT score varies each year, but generally, it hovers around 20-21 out of a maximum score of 36. While it's good to know the average score as a reference point, your own testing efforts should be more focused on the colleges or universities you're interested in applying to.
Take a look at the middle 50% range for ACT scores at your target schools, which represents the 25th to 75th percentile scores of admitted students. Aiming for a score within or above this range will help make you a more competitive applicant for that particular college. Some colleges may have a middle 50% range around the national average, but more selective schools will be looking for significantly higher scores, potentially even in the 30s.
Finally, while test scores are an essential part of your application, they're not the only factor colleges consider. Your coursework, grades, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations are all important components of your college application as well, so make sure you also put effort into these other areas while studying for the ACT. Good luck with your ACT preparation!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.