Understanding the Value of an ACT Score of 33

Hey guys! I just got my ACT scores back and I have a 33. Is that a decent score? What kinds of universities should I be aiming for with a score like this? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Congratulations on your ACT score of 33! That's a fantastic achievement. To give you a sense of how it stacks up, a score of 33 places you in the top 2% of test-takers nationwide. So, you're certainly in a strong position when it comes to college admissions.

With a 33 ACT score, you are a competitive candidate for many top-tier universities and liberal arts colleges. However, although standardized test scores are important, remember that admissions decisions also consider other factors like your GPA, rigor of your coursework, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters. That said, your score does open up a lot of opportunities for you.

As you research and create a prospective college list, consider the target schools' middle 50% ACT score range. Your score is particularly competitive for schools with an upper quartile of 33 or below, and you have a solid shot at institutions with a range around or slightly above your score. With your score, you'd be a competitive applicant at prestigious institutions, such as Emory University, University of Notre Dame, and Boston University, to name a few.

Of course, it's essential to consider other elements when choosing colleges as well, such as fit, location, academic programs, class size, and campus culture. It's wise to divide your college list into three categories: reach schools, match schools, and safety schools. Reach schools are highly selective institutions where your chances of admission are lower but still within the realm of possibility. Match schools are those where your profile aligns well with the typical admitted student, and safety schools are ones where your chances of admission are higher.

Remember to visit campuses, attend info sessions, or participate in virtual events to learn more about each school and find the best fit for you. Good luck with your college search and application process!