Is 15 a Bad ACT Score?

I'm a junior and I just got my ACT score back... I got a 15. Is that a terrible score? How can I improve before applying to colleges? Any suggestions would be appreciated!

A 15 on the ACT is considered below the national average, which is around 21. However, don't worry too much, as you still have time to improve your score before applying to colleges. Here are some suggestions to help you prepare for your next attempt:

1. Understand your strengths and weaknesses: Analyze your score report to see the sections where you did well and where you struggled. Knowing exactly why you didn't do as well as you hoped will help you target your study efforts more effectively.

2. Make a study plan: Allocate time daily or weekly for ACT preparation. Focus on the areas where you need the most improvement, while also maintaining your stronger areas.

3. Use reputable resources: Utilize official ACT preparation materials as well as reputable third-party resources such as books, online courses, or tutoring services to help guide your study process. CollegeVine's blog is one free resource, that contains a series of posts focused on ACT prep specifically: https://blog.collegevine.com/category/standardized-tests/act/

4. Practice regularly: Consistently practice answering ACT questions, taking timed practice tests, and reviewing your responses to understand and correct your mistakes. Becoming more familiar with the test format and improving your time management skills can sometimes be just as crucial as familiarizing yourself with the actual content.

5. Learn test-taking strategies: Familiarize yourself with strategies for each section of the ACT, such as reading and annotating passages, eliminating wrong answer choices, and using your calculator efficiently. These strategies can help you approach questions more effectively and improve your overall score.

6. Set realistic goals: As you're starting from a 15, consider setting a target score for your next attempt that shows significant improvement but is also achievable. Remember that increased scores are particularly noticeable at the lower end of the scale, so even a few points of improvement can make a significant difference.

7. Stay persistent: Improving your ACT score may take time and effort, so stay determined throughout the process, even if you don't see immediate improvement. Keep track of your progress and adjust your study plan as needed to ensure you're effectively working towards your goal.

Finally, it's essential to know that colleges look at multiple factors beyond test scores, including your grades, extracurricular activities, and personal essays. As you work on improving your ACT score, remember to continue focusing on these other aspects too, especially since being especially strong in one of these other areas can sometimes help compensate for a lower ACT score. Good luck!