How bad is a 12 ACT score?

Hey everyone! I took the ACT and ended up with a score of 12. It seems really low, and I'm concerned about how it'll affect my college chances. Should I retake the exam or focus on other aspects of my application? Please help, I'm kinda stressed about this!

A 12 on the ACT is indeed on the lower end of the scoring spectrum, as the scores range from 1 to 36. Understandably, you might be concerned about your college admissions chances. However, try not to panic - rather, focus on improving your score and demonstrating your strengths through other aspects of your application.

First, you should consider retaking the ACT if you believe you can improve your score through additional preparation. Use resources like prep books, online study guides, and practice tests to help you better understand the exam format and content. It's common for students to see an improvement in their scores with each attempt, especially as they become more familiar with the test and its structure. For example, CollegeVine's blog has a range of posts offering guidance on how to improve your ACT score - one such post can be found here: https://blog.collegevine.com/top-10-act-tips-for-acing-the-exam

In the meantime, start working on other aspects of your application that may help offset a lower ACT score. Focus on maintaining or improving your GPA, and take challenging courses to demonstrate your academic abilities. In addition, consider enhancing your extracurricular involvement by pursuing activities that align with your interests and showcase your commitment, such as community service, leadership roles, or participating in clubs and organizations.

Lastly, spend time crafting a strong personal essay that highlights your unique experiences and qualities. A well-written essay can help admissions committees see you beyond your test scores and provide a more holistic view of your potential as a student.

Finally, keep in mind that many colleges have moved towards test-optional policies, which means they may not require or even consider ACT scores for admissions. So, while a strong score is still advantageous, a low score does not necessarily shut the door on your college dreams, especially if you apply to test-optional schools, or less selective institutions.

By improving your ACT score and strengthening other aspects of your application, you can better position yourself for college admissions success. Stay focused on your goals, and remember that there are many ways to showcase your strengths in the application process. Good luck!