Does 33 vs 34 ACT really matter?

Colleges and Universities A-Z University of Pennsylvania
1

<p>I recently got a 33 Composite (35 E, 34 M, 35 R, 28 S, 12 essay) on the June ACT and was originally more than content with it. However, everything I've been reading on CC claims 34+ is key for top schools. I'm mostly just concerned about UPenn Wharton (although I'm sure this applies to HYPMS too), as it is the only extremely elitist school that I will be applying to; however, it will (likely) be my ED so I'd like to be clear on this.</p>

<p>I've heard a rumor that there is an ED cut off at Penn and other top schools (2200/34) for unhooked applicants like myself. Not sure if this has any truth to it, so really just wondering if a 34 is really that much better than a 33. I find it hard to believe 1 point can make such a difference, but what do I know? I think my GPA has a pretty good chance of taking me out of the running, so would at least like to have the ACT competitive. Thanks :)</p>

2

<p>How many times did you take the ACT? Your score is really high except for science and that could be lack of experience with the ACT and you may benefit from taking it again. Not that the 33 isn’t great because it is, but really if the science was a bit higher can you imagine. No one can really tell you the difference between 33 and 34.</p>

3

<p>There is no ACT cutoff for ED candidates. Remember the review is holistic. They will look at everything and everything should be strong for an unhooked candidate. It is only anecdotal, but my unhooked son got in ED to Wharton class of 2017 with a 33 ACT.</p>

4

<p>33 is ample. At that score level the only thing relevant now are your EC’s, essays, and letters of recommendation (assuming you have solid grades too).</p>