I've been prepping like crazy for the ACT and was hoping someone could clarify something for me - what's the highest possible score on the ACT? I am working to get as high a score as I can because I'm interested in top-tier colleges. Thanks in advance!
The highest possible score you can get on the ACT is a 36. The ACT calculates this composite score by averaging your scores from the four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Each of these sections is also scored on a scale of 1-36. Note that the score of the optional Writing section (which is scored separately on a scale of 2-12) does not contribute towards the composite score of 36.
Aiming for the top score is a great goal, but remember, the scores are just one aspect that top-tier colleges look at. They also consider your coursework, grades, leadership experience, extracurricular involvement, letters of recommendation and personal essays. Achieving a 36 on the ACT is an excellent achievement, but a slightly lower score with a strong application otherwise can also be successful.
It's also important to recognize that the average ACT scores for students admitted to top-tier colleges typically range from 31 to 34. So while a 36 is outstanding, scores in this range are also very competitive. Regardless, it's always a good idea to aim high, so keep pushing yourself in your studies, and best of luck!
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