Hi CC,
I just got my ACT scores back: 33 composite (E34, M35, R30, S33).
While a 33 places me in the top 1%, it isn’t in the usually recommended 34+ range.
Although there is a test date remaining, I would rather concentrate on doing the SAT 2 Subject Test (Chemistry and Maths 2) instead of retaking the ACT for a 34+.
Should I retake?
Thanks everybody in advance 
P.S.: I want to study medecine later on, so I don’t know whether the 30 in Reading will hurt my chances.
See Harvard Common Data Set, C9 Data point: http://oir.harvard.edu/files/huoir/files/harvard_cds_2013-14.pdf
A 33 ACT is in Harvard’s middle range, so there’s no reason to retake. Keep in mind that testing is only one part of the applications process, and is not the most important part, as it cannot answer the question Harvard will be asking when reviewing your file: https://college.harvard.edu/admissions/preparing-college/choosing-courses
I would suggest you retake if this was your first time taking the ACT. A 33 is an excellent composite score and places you pretty solidly right in the middle of the applicant pool. I am not looking to heap pressure on you but realistically you are competing for admission with the best and brightest applicants in the world. You have to be as across the board strong as you can be. A 33 is enough, a point or two higher is better. Good luck to you!
A 33 is a very good score, but for Harvard and other Ivies you should try to get at least a 34. You still have time to take ACT and subject tests
@GreatKid and @Whuff24: According to the ACT/SAT concordance table (http://www.act.org/solutions/college-career-readiness/compare-act-sat/). a 33 ACT is equal to a 2200. If the OP had asked if they should retake a 2200 SAT, would you be giving the same advice?
@gibby personally, yes. However, that is just me. Being someone with lesser extracurriculars than some scholars and being of the white majority, I would rather be in the upper range of scores
FWIW: Both my kids are white. My daughter was accepted to Harvard with a 34 ACT, while my son was rejected with a 36 ACT (accepted to Yale and Princeton). What that says to me, is that beyond a certain threshold – and I think that number is around 2200 – other factors become MORE important than test scores. And having a higher test score does not compensate for lesser things in a file.
No, do not retake. Your score is competitive. A point or 2 more isn’t going to change your application in the grand scheme of things.You are more than a number, and being in that range is enough.
@GreatKid @gibby @whuff24 Thanks for your answers!
@GreatKid This was my second time taking the ACT.
@gibby I always thought that the average ACT score was 34?
In my opinion, my extra-curriculars are quite good: however, I don’t want my admission to rely only on them.
I practised for only 1 week (but very intensively) for the June ACT. I averaged a 34 composite on practice tests; that is, I surely can score a 34+.
I would take it again if it maximizes my chances of admission.
I just checked the dates and the next ACT test date (September 12) wouldn’t be in conflict with the next Subject Test date (October 3). So, theoretically, I could take the ACT again. Should I or should I concentrate on the other thing gibby mentioned?
By the way, what are these other things @gibby? What can you still significantly change at this point of the admission process?
Thanks
Harvard receives about 35,000 applications and maybe 20% of applicant’s “have it all” – they have a top GPA, almost perfect test scores and interesting EC’s. However, out of those 7,000 students who have it all, Harvard only has room for 1660 of them. So, Harvard uses a student’s essay, teacher recommendations, guidance counselor report and interview report to find students that in their estimation will make a difference and change the world: http://thechoice.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/09/10/harvarddean-part1/
Hi goldenmaster, none of us has the formula for an assured Harvard ( or any other elite college acceptance).
I asked purposely if it was the first time you had taken the ACT. Given that it was your second time I wouldn’t take it again. I would focus on your SAT subject tests and your essay/essays, and securing your letters of recommendation. A piece of advice to you is to be genuine and authentic in your writing, let your essays show who you are as a person. The Admissions people will be assessing what a person such as yourself will bring to your class and their college community. If you have a compelling story to tell make sure you go for it.
Trust where ever you end up is where you were meant to be! Best Wishes!
My younger son got a 2200 the first time around. I told him don’t bother to retake, but he was hell bent for leather to retake, so I didn’t fight him. He usually gets what he wants. 
Do not retake it. Seriously a 33 is good enough. Think about it. your application with a 33… your application with a 34.
No difference in the eyes of an admissions officer.
I have to disagree with some of these people. On the ACT, one point really does make a difference (and who knows. you might improve even more than that). And if you’ve only taken it once, it really is worth it because you will likely improve.
@diane11 I took the ACT twice 
i knew a guy with a 28 who got into harvard. He was not an excellent jock but had a great application. Scores are but a piece of the puzzle.
I’d say not to retake an SAT if you have a 2200+ or an ACT if you have a 33+. I think colleges like to boast about rejecting perfect scorers, so not being perfect (but still having good credentials) is a big plus.
If retaking the ACT is just a matter of going and spending a few otherwise idle hours on a Saturday, and you think you’ll improve your score, then it’s not such a bad idea. If retaking it includes any significant time to study for the test in order to improve one’s score, then don’t bother. Use the additional time and energy on your essays.
^ exactly right