Is ACT score 22 good enough?

So, I got my ACT results back and I scored a 22. Is it decent enough for most colleges? Or should I consider retaking the test?

It's helpful to note that an ACT score of 22 is roughly in the 63rd percentile of all test takers, which means you scored higher than about 63% of students. So yes, a 22 is a decent score. However, "good enough" can vary greatly depending upon the colleges you're applying to.

Suppose you're aiming for less selective schools or local state universities. In that case, a 22 can often be enough to be considered for admission, especially if the rest of your application (like your GPA and extracurriculars) is strong. However, if you're shooting for more selective institutions, a 22 may be below their typical ACT score range.

To determine how you stack up, look at the ACT middle 50% scores for admitted students at the colleges you're interested in. If your ACT score of 22 falls within or close to that range, you're on target.

However, keep in mind that standardized test scores aren't the only thing colleges look at. The importance of the ACT varies from college to college. Some universities provide a holistic review and consider other aspects such as GPA, coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and others, just as much -- if not more -- than standardized test scores.

If you feel you could improve your score, then re-taking the ACT could be a good option. There's usually room for improvement, and even a few additional points could make you a stronger candidate.

To guide your decision about whether to retake the test, consider these factors:

1. How close was your score to your practice test results? If you've been consistently hitting higher on practice exams, it might be worth retaking, as your test day score may not be indicative of your potential.

2. Did you prepare thoroughly for your first ACT? If not, creating a dedicated study plan may help you boost your score.

3. Do you have time to study? Think about your current schedule and what you might need to give up or postpone to dedicate yourself to the test.

Remember, a test score is just one part of your application. Strengthening other areas of your application can also improve your admissions odds.