I took the ACT with writing in April and recently found out how I did. I got a 34 composite (35E, 33M, 34R, 33S) and a 10 on writing.
Should I retake it to get a higher score? This is my second time taking the test, and I’m a sophomore so I have plenty of time if I need to retake it again. (I also sent my scores to Harvard, Yale, Princeton, and Columbia–not sure if this was the brightest decision but it’s done now). Would it increase my chances of admission to get a 35 or 36?And is my writing score high enough? I know it won’t be required when I apply, but I don’t think it can hurt to have a writing score.
Please don’t post hate (“you just want to brag!”) or derail this post. Straightforward answers are always appreciated
No! A 34 ACT is within Harvard’s range, and a higher ACT (35/36) will not increase your chances, as now other “soft” factors come into play such as your “character.” That’s an old fashioned word; it means the way you develop your inner qualities: intellectual passion, maturity, social conscience, concern for community, tolerance, inclusiveness and love of learning. Colleges learn of those things by comments made from your teachers and guidance counselor, as well as what your choose to write about in your essays and the “tone” and content of what you say.
To be admitted to Harvard – you need it all: A high GPA, great ACT/SAT scores (a 34 is a great ACT score), interesting EC’s, a thought provoking essay, stellar teacher recommendations. If one area is deficient, a student might be waitlisted or rejected – that’s how tough the competition is these days. So, congratulations on your 34 ACT, now let it go. When the time comes, I would focus on your essays. Best of luck to you!
I don’t think you even need to be thinking about college yet (or submit scores). For elites, as others have said, your scores need to meet a benchmark and after that it is about other things, so devote your energy to those other things. But not to get into a school, rather to explore interests and grow as a person. Next Feb. is a good time to start thinking about where to go to college. Enjoy high school.
A 34 is a great score. In terms of test prep, look ahead to which subject tests you will want to take. Most schools require or at least “recommend” 2. Some require 3. Based on conversations I have had with senior Yale AO’s, the LoR’s are pretty critical -I’d imagine the same dynamics for Harvard. The more of a personal relationship you can develop with core curriculum teachers your junior year, the more likely they will have good ammunition to write about you. But as the above posters have written, it is about presenting the complete package through all parts of the application.
Congrats on your score. Work on other parts of your application such as essays, teacher recommendations, and truly developing your passions. What can you contribute to Harvard that no one else can? Answer that and you’ll be far better off than having 1 or 2 more points on your already great ACT score. Good luck!
