Is it worth retaking the ACT to get a higher score

I’m a junior in high school and I just got my ACT scores back. I got a composite score of 28. My individual section scores were: English – 30, Math – 26, Reading – 29, and Science – 27.

I know that a 28 is above the national average, but I’m aiming for some pretty competitive colleges, like maybe a few Ivy League schools and some other top-tier universities known for their engineering programs. The average ACT score for admitted students at those schools seems to be much higher, usually in the 32-35 range.

My GPA is pretty good – around a 3.9 unweighted. I’m also involved in a few extracurriculars, like robotics club, debate, and volunteering at a local animal shelter. I’m worried that my ACT score is going to hold me back from getting into my dream schools.

So, is it worth the time and effort to retake the ACT? I’m already feeling pretty stressed with schoolwork and other activities. I’d have to dedicate a significant amount of time to studying, and I’m not sure if it would actually make that much of a difference. I’m especially worried about improving my Math and Science scores.

Also, if I do decide to retake it, how should I approach studying differently this time around? I used a prep book the first time, but I clearly didn’t improve as much as I hoped. Are there any specific resources or strategies that people have found particularly helpful for improving those specific sections? Is there a point of diminishing returns where studying more won’t significantly improve my score?

Answer

Whether retaking the ACT is "worth it" depends entirely on individual circumstances and goals. A higher ACT score can open doors to various opportunities, but the time, effort, and cost involved need to be carefully weighed against the potential benefits.

Potential Benefits of a Higher ACT Score:

• Increased College Admission Chances: Selective colleges often have average or median ACT score ranges for admitted students. A higher score can significantly improve your chances of acceptance, especially at highly competitive institutions. Aiming for a score within or above the 75th percentile of admitted students for your target schools is generally a good strategy.

• Merit-Based Scholarships and Financial Aid: Many colleges and universities offer merit-based scholarships based on academic achievement, including ACT scores. A higher score can qualify you for more substantial scholarships, reducing the overall cost of college. Some external scholarship programs also use ACT scores as a criterion.

• Expanded College Options: A higher ACT score can broaden your range of potential college choices. Schools that might have seemed out of reach with your initial score may become viable options.

• Placement in Honors Programs or Advanced Courses: Some colleges use ACT scores to determine placement in honors programs or advanced courses in specific subjects. A strong score can allow you to start your college career at a higher academic level.

• Improved Self-Confidence and Academic Standing: Achieving a higher ACT score can boost your self-confidence and create a more positive academic profile. This can be particularly beneficial if you struggled with the test the first time around.

Factors to Consider Before Retaking the ACT:

• Current Score: Analyze your current ACT score in relation to the average scores of admitted students at your target colleges. If your score is already within or above the range, retaking the test might not be necessary.

• Target College Requirements: Research the specific admission requirements of your desired colleges. Some colleges are "test-optional," meaning they don’t require ACT scores for admission. Others may "superscore," meaning they consider your highest score from each section across multiple test dates. If a college is test-optional or superscores, the decision to retake the test should be evaluated based on how the ACT will factor into your application.

• Areas for Improvement: Identify your weaknesses on the ACT. If you struggled in specific sections (e.g., Math, Reading), focus your preparation on those areas.

• Preparation Time and Resources: Assess how much time and effort you can realistically dedicate to preparing for the ACT again. Effective preparation often involves consistent studying, practice tests, and potentially tutoring or test preparation courses.

• Test-Taking Anxiety: Consider whether test-taking anxiety significantly affected your performance on the initial test. If so, explore strategies for managing anxiety, such as relaxation techniques or practicing under timed conditions.

• Financial Cost: The ACT exam fee can be a barrier for some students. Additionally, test preparation materials, courses, or tutoring can add to the cost. Fee waivers are available for eligible students with financial need.

• Time Constraints: Consider other academic and extracurricular commitments. Ensure that retaking the ACT won’t negatively impact your performance in other areas.

• Superscoring Policies: Research whether your target colleges superscore the ACT. If they do, focusing on improving specific sections where you scored lower can be a strategic approach.

How to Determine if Retaking the ACT is Worth It:

1. Identify Target Colleges: List the colleges you are interested in attending.
2. Research Admission Requirements: Determine the average ACT scores of admitted students at each college and their testing policies.
3. Evaluate Current Score: Compare your current score to the average scores of your target colleges.
4. Assess Improvement Potential: Honestly assess how much you believe you can improve your score with additional preparation.
5. Consider Costs and Benefits: Weigh the potential benefits of a higher score (e.g., increased admission chances, scholarships) against the costs (e.g., time, effort, money).
6. Factor in Test-Optional Policies: If your target colleges are test-optional, consider whether your application is strong enough without submitting ACT scores.

Alternatives to Retaking the ACT:

• Focus on Other Application Components: If retaking the ACT is not feasible or desirable, concentrate on strengthening other aspects of your college application, such as essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and GPA.

• Consider Test-Optional Colleges: Explore colleges that do not require ACT scores for admission.

• Explore Alternative Standardized Tests: In some limited cases, colleges may accept alternative standardized tests, but this is becoming less common.

In conclusion, deciding whether to retake the ACT is a personal choice that should be based on careful consideration of your individual circumstances, goals, and resources. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.