Is my ACT score average?

Hey, I just got back my ACT and scored a 21. I'm feeling kinda down about it, is that around average? Should I retake it?

From a national standpoint, an ACT score of 21 is indeed around average. The national average tends to hover around 20-21. However, whether you should retake the test or not really depends on your specific goals and the colleges you're aiming to get into.

Now, if you have your sights set on more selective colleges, a higher ACT score might be more favorable because the average scores of admitted students at those institutions tend to be higher. To give you some context, at many selective universities, the majority of admitted students often have ACT scores in the upper 20s to mid-30s.

Additionally, it's worth noting that while your ACT score is important, other aspects of your application also play a significant role in admission decisions. This includes your GPA, extracurricular involvement, recommendation letters, essays, and more. Assessing where you stand academically in all these areas can help you determine whether or not it would be beneficial to retake the ACT.

Before deciding, try to consider some other factors such as: How much time do you have before college application deadlines? Do you feel like you can improve your score with more preparation? How essential is a higher ACT score for your targeted universities?

Keep in mind that many test-prep resources are available to assist you should you opt to retake the ACT. Best of luck with your decision, and remember, your ACT score is just one part of your overall application.