Understanding perfect ACT scores

Hey everyone, I know a good score for the ACT may vary depending on the colleges I'm applying to, but what's considered a 'perfect' ACT score?

A perfect ACT score is 36, which is the highest possible score you can achieve on the test. The ACT consists of four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, each scored on a scale of 1 to 36. Your composite score is the average of your four section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number.

If you score a 36 in each section, your composite score will obviously be a 36, which is perfect, but you could also get a 36 by earning a 36 in three sections, and a 35 in the fourth, as your composite score would still round to 36.

However, it’s important to note that while a perfect ACT score can certainly strengthen your college application and make you a more competitive applicant, it isn't a guarantee for admissions to highly selective colleges. Admissions committees consider multiple factors, including academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and other personal qualities when making their decisions.

In reality, no colleges, even highly selective ones, require a perfect ACT score for admission. Rather, you'll want to aim for a score within or above the middle 50% of admitted students at your target schools. At the most competitive colleges, that will likely be somewhere in the 34-36 range, but there are many schools where you would be in a strong position even with a slightly lower score.

Remember to also focus on other important aspects of the application process, such as strong essays, solid extracurricular activities, and recommendation letters, as they also play a significant role in demonstrating your overall strengths as a candidate. While standardized tests play an important role in many schools' admissions processes, at most institutions even a perfect 36 won't get you in on its own.

Good luck with your college process!