<p>I just received my ACT scores after taken the test for the first time in June. My composite score was 34 with (35 English, Math 31, Reading 35, Science 34), however I only got a 6 on the essay making my english/writing score a 30. I had already signed up to send my scores to four schools: Georgetown, Columbia, Brown, and Boston College. I guess I'm just scared the 6 will look pretty bad comparatively.
I did similarly on the SAT writing (7), but I have always done well in all my english classes and other tests involving writing. I think I just get a bit frazzled by the time limit. Anywho, I guess I'm wondering if the 6 will be seen as a big red flag and if its possible/better to not send this score when I'm applying and just to retake the ACT in the fall and hopefully get the same composite and a better writing score. I'm going to talk to my guidance counselor about it too, but I figured this might be faster since its summertime.</p>
<p>Your English and Reading scores show your advanced level literacy far more than your “6” on the writing exam. I was given some of the best comments for my essay and only got a 10. ACT writing essay = / = writing ability </p>
<p>Look into the schools you’ve mentioned. A Quick google search for Georgetown’s ACT policy i found this: </p>
<p>“The optional writing section on the ACT is not required, nor is the writing subscore used in the application review process.”</p>
<p>So look into your schools, and see if a retake is even needed.</p>
<p>Thanks, that does make me feel better. I looked at the other the three schools and others that I’m interested in and it appears they all do look at the ACT writing, so I’ll probably try to end up retaking if I’m not busy in the fall.</p>