I took the ACT and did pretty well on the multiple-choice sections, but my writing score was lower than I expected. Should I retake the ACT to improve just the writing test score, or do most colleges not weigh it as heavily as the other sections?
It is thoughtful to consider how your writing score might impact your college applications. Generally speaking, the multiple-choice sections of the ACT tend to be weighed more heavily by most colleges than the writing score. However, it's important to check the specific requirements and preferences of the institutions you are interested in. Some schools may look at the writing score more carefully, especially if you're applying to a program that emphasizes strong writing skills.
To give you an example, if you're aiming to get into a competitive program like journalism or English, a higher writing score could demonstrate your proficiency in those areas. On the other hand, for programs inclined towards STEM, the ACT writing section might be less critical. Therefore, before you decide to retake it, review the admission pages of your chosen colleges or contact their admissions offices directly to inquire about the importance of the ACT writing score in their evaluation process. This will allow you to make the most informed decision possible.
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