Thinking about college admissions and wondering what a good ACT score is? You're not alone. The ACT is a key part of the college application process for many students in the United States. Scoring well on the ACT not only improves your chances of getting into your target schools but can also qualify you for scholarships and honors programs. In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about good ACT scores, how they're interpreted, and how to achieve them.

What Is a Good ACT Score?

A good ACT score depends on your college goals. The ACT is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with the national average typically around 19–21. However, for more selective colleges, a good score on the ACT is usually 28 or higher, while top-tier universities often look for scores above 32.

So, what is considered a good ACT score?

• Average Score: ~20
• Competitive Score: 26–29
• Top 10% Score: 30–32
• Ivy League Level: 33–36

Ultimately, what a good ACT score is will vary depending on the expectations of the schools you plan to apply to.

Good ACT Scores for 15 Popular Colleges

Here's a look at the middle 50% ACT score range (25th–75th percentile) for accepted students at 15 well-known U.S. colleges:

Knowing the ACT ranges of your desired schools helps you set realistic goals for a good ACT score.

Top Strategies for a Good ACT Score

Here are expert-approved strategies to help you reach a good ACT score:

• Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the ACT sections—English, Math, Reading, Science, and optional Writing.
• Take Practice Tests Regularly: Simulate real exam conditions to build stamina and improve timing.
• Analyze Mistakes: Review incorrect answers to understand your weak areas and prevent repeated errors.
• Focus on Time Management: Each section is tightly timed; practicing with a stopwatch can help build speed.
• Use ACT Prep Resources: Use prep books and online platforms, or consider a tutor if needed.
• Retake the Test If Needed: Many students improve their score the second or third time they take the ACT.

ACT Score Percentiles and Good ACT Scores

Percentiles show how your score compares to others. Here's how ACT scores break down by percentile:

A good score on the ACT usually places you in the 75th percentile or above, especially if you are applying to selective colleges.

ACT Score vs. Typical Scores at Your Target Schools

To determine what a good ACT score is for you, start by researching the ACT ranges for your dream schools. If your score is:

• Above the 75th percentile, your chances are strong.
• Within the 25th–75th percentile, you're competitive.
• Below the 25th percentile, you may need to strengthen other parts of your application or consider retaking the test.

This personalized approach is key to understanding what is considered a good ACT score for your specific goals.

🎓 Scholarships for Good ACT Scores

A high ACT score can unlock thousands of dollars in merit-based scholarships offered by universities and private organizations. Many colleges in the U.S. offer automatic scholarships based on ACT score thresholds—no separate application required.

🎯 What ACT Scores Can Get You Scholarships?

💡 Notable Examples:

• University of Alabama: ACT 30+ can earn up to full tuition source
• Baylor University: ACT 32+ can yield up to $24,000/year in academic scholarships source
• University of Kentucky: ACT 31+ may qualify you for the Presidential Scholarship (tuition + housing) source

📌 Tip: Many private scholarships also require high ACT scores—search national databases like Fastweb and BigFuture.

✨ Bonus: Superscoring Helps

Because universities like Arizona State University, University of Mississippi, and Ohio State superscore the ACT, you can boost your composite and qualify for more aid.

Conclusion

A good ACT score isn't one-size-fits-all—it's about alignment with your college ambitions. Deciding whether one wishes to get admitted into one of the best Ivy League universities or get merit scholarships in a state university requires one to know what a good ACT score is and how to achieve it. So calculate the numbers, prepare wisely, and aim high. After all, test scores form only a small part of your entire college application; really, all the hard work and determination that count.