Is a 28 on the ACT good enough for most top-tier colleges?

I got a 28 on my ACT and I'm kind of stressed about it since I want to apply to some top-tier colleges. Do you guys think it's worth retaking or should I focus on other parts of my application?

A 28 on the ACT is a solid score, but it may not make your application as competitive at top-tier colleges. The average ACT scores for students accepted at these institutions tend to be higher, usually in the 30-34 range (and often higher for the absolute most selective schools, like those in the Ivy League).

That being said, it's essential to remember that top-tier colleges use a holistic admissions process, which means they will consider many factors beyond just your test score. Your grades, course rigor, extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation all play crucial roles in their decision-making process.

However, since ACT scores do carry some weight, it might be worth retaking the test if you believe you can improve with additional preparation. Consider focusing on practice tests, identifying areas where you can improve, and perhaps seeking out tutoring or other resources to help you raise your score. CollegeVine's blog contains a series of ACT-prep posts that you may find helpful, such as this one: https://blog.collegevine.com/top-10-act-tips-for-acing-the-exam/

On the other hand, if your test performance is unlikely to change significantly, it might be better to focus on other parts of your application that you can strengthen. Make sure your essays are compelling and reflective, your extracurriculars showcase your interests and unique abilities, and ensure that your teachers and counselors are well-informed about your accomplishments to write strong letters of recommendation. Making a big jump on the ACT is quite challenging, and you want to be sure you're using your time in the most productive way possible.

It is worth noting that many colleges, even top-tier ones, are currently operating under a test-optional policy. While you typically want to demonstrate your strengths in as many ways as possible at highly selective schools, technically you do not have to submit an ACT score. For more detailed guidance on how to navigate test-optional policies, check out this blog post from CollegeVine. https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional/.

Finally, if you haven't already, you could give the SAT a shot. The tests are designed to evaluate the same skills, but they do differ in terms of structure and exact content covered, and some students find that they do quite a bit better on one vs the other. Try taking an SAT practice test, and then using a conversion table with the ACT, to see if you have a stronger affinity for that test.

In summary, while a 28 on the ACT is respectable, aiming for a higher score could improve your chances at top-tier colleges. Retake the test if you feel confident that you can increase your score, but don't neglect the other crucial components of your application. Good luck - I'm rooting for you!