Hey, I recently took the ACT and scored an 18. I'm feeling a little stressed about this score and need some advice: is this a good score or should I consider retaking the test?
An 18 on the ACT is considered below average, as the national ACT average score is around 21. However, whether it's a good score depends on your personal goals and the colleges you are planning to apply to. If you are targeting more competitive colleges or universities, it would be wise to retake the test and aim for a higher score.
Before deciding on a retake, research the colleges you're interested in and check their average admitted student ACT scores. This information can usually be found on their admissions websites or through websites like CollegeVine. If your score is considerably lower than the middle 50% range of admitted students, retaking the test might be a good option.
In preparation for a retake, consider analyzing your performance on your first attempt to identify areas where you struggled. Then, focus on those sections and practice using resources like ACT prep books, online classes, or tutoring sessions. It's also essential to familiarize yourself with test-taking strategies that can help you manage your time and approach different question types more effectively.
Remember, each college has its own set of criteria for admissions, and an ACT score is only one aspect of your application. Your extracurricular activities, essay, and letters of recommendation also play a significant role in the admissions process. However, improving your ACT score could indeed boost your chances of getting into your desired colleges. Good luck!
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