The Role of the ACT Test

The ACT test scores are used for many things, not just admission. 

Test Optional Admission

Many colleges are now test optional for admission, meaning you can be considered for admission without submitting a test score. So what does this really mean?

Most colleges have an admission formula that looks at GPA, test scores, and the number of core courses you take in high school. If you apply test optional, you simply put more emphasis on your other submitted information. 

Many colleges would still prefer that you submit a test score, but if you choose an individual review process be sure to ask colleges how they will evaluate your application when there is no test score and if there are things you could miss out on by not having the score in your file.

Course Placement, Wait Lists and Specific Program Requirements

What could you miss out on by not submitting a score? 

Test scores are not just used for admission. Test scores help colleges place you in the right level of math, communication, or literacy courses. Without a test score it can be more difficult to place you in the correct level and you could end up taking the wrong course or being put in a remedial level first to ensure you are ready for college-level academics.

In addition to course placement, while general admission criteria may be test optional, some specific programs or majors may require or prefer a test score. You may not be able to get into a program right away if you do not have a test score. If there is a wait list, some programs may favor students that submitted a test score over those who don't have that extra bit of information in their file. You may be waitlisted longer without a test score.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

ACT test scores are also often a requirement for merit-based scholarships. If a scholarship or grant requires a certain test score and you do not submit a test score, you cannot qualify for the scholarship, even if you meet all other academic requirements. Having a test score on file ensures that you receive any merit-based aid you qualify for. 

Taking the Test Twice (or more)

The most popular time to take the ACT is during your junior year. Have you considered taking it twice? Not every time, but many times, students do better the second time they take the test with an average increase of two points. 

The ACT is on a scale of 0-36. Big academic scholarships tend to start around a 28 and increase the closer you get to 36. When it comes to the ACT, a single point increase can make a big difference in academic awards.

And if you are interested in a college that superscores, taking the test again could really help you. If you score higher in certain subjects but not in others, some colleges will take the highest subject test scores from each test and create a superscore from all the tests you've taken. Talk to admissions to understand how this process works at each school that interests you. Not every college superscores but some do and it could benefit you.

If you are thinking you may want to take the test again you want to do it yet this Fall. Most colleges will accept scores through December, but it's always best to ask.

Final Thoughts

Every college is different. It's important to talk to the schools you are considering to see the impacts of having or not having a test score. If you have any questions, be sure to reach out to the admissions office, or talk to your school counselor and we can talk you through your options as well.