What ACT score do I need to get into college?

Hey, y'all! So, I'm going to take my ACT soon and I'm nervous about applying to colleges. I have no idea what ACT score I should be aiming for. Can anyone give me some guidance on what kind of scores are typically needed for college admissions?

Hey there! It's completely normal to be nervous, but don't worry, we're here to help. The ACT score you should aim for depends on the colleges you're interested in applying to. There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer since different colleges have different average ACT scores for admitted students. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Research the colleges you're interested in: Look up the middle 50% ACT score range for the schools on your list. This range usually indicates the scores where 50% of admitted students fall. Aim for a score within this range, or even higher if you want to be more competitive.

2. Consider the level of selectivity: Colleges can be divided into three categories based on their selectivity: selective (average ACT scores around 20-25), more selective (average ACT scores around 26-30), and highly selective (average ACT scores 31+). Generally, the more selective the school, the higher your ACT score should be.

3. Remember that test scores are just one part of your application: While aiming for a competitive ACT score is important, remember that colleges also consider other aspects of your profile, such as grades, coursework rigor, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. A well-rounded application is important for college admissions.

Ultimately, it's crucial to remember that what might be a competitive ACT score for one college won't necessarily be the same for another. I recommend researching each college on your list, making note of their average ACT scores, and setting a target score based on your findings. Good luck with your ACT preparation and college applications!