Okay so I feel like crap because I just took my act test and i know i bombed it. The last time i took it i got a 20. My gpa is 3.7 unweighted and a 4.7 weighted. Like im generally a good student. Im 33 out of 460ish. Do you think I have a chance in getting into any good colleges with a 20 act? Im also in the national honors society and Some international music club. ;/ I feel really stupid. like i panic a lot when it comes to timed testing. I simply cannot be rushed to do something… i just feel really dumb. especially when i compare to what other people got (28s…29s)…although the ave. was 23
Are you a junior, senior? A retest is probably needed, or a switch to the SAT. You will be shut out of a lot of institutions with a 20 ACT.
I am a senior. i want to apply to UIC
have you considered test optional? I did not look into it myself, I do not know whether you are a female, but Bryn Mawr. comes to mind
You aren’t stupid at all. Anyone who can get a 4.7 GPA is very, very smart. I agree that the ACT timing is rather challenging. I’ve taken the ACT a total of 4 times, and I can tell you that today’s test was unreasonably hard. Keep trying and I’m sure you’ll do better! Also, try the SAT. The time constraints are much more generous. Standardized tests aren’t everything and I’m sure if you put in the effort you’ll see a major improvement/get into your college of choice
thank you! I have so much to do idk if i should give it another shot. ive taken it 3 times…with this one. i know i did horrible on this one!! 
You need to focus on test optional schools.
Hey! You are not alone! I am number 3 in my class! And I usually get A’s…however, my ACT score is SOOO LOWWWWW! But my mentor recommended me test optional schools! And I found Pitzer College! A great college in California! There is Bates College, St.Lawrence, Wake Forest, if you want to stay in contact you can message me! You are not the only one! STAY STRONG AND BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!
did you study for it?
The ACT interquartile range for UIC is 22 to 26. It is a reach, but you may still get accepted since your GPA is strong. http://www2.oir.uic.edu/commondataset/pdf/CDS2013_2014_c.pdf
Definitely apply!
Do you think you have any circumstances that might warrant extended time? If not, I would just wait to see what you get and if you don’t improve your score, work on your timing and take it again if you aren’t applying early action. Your timing is bound to get better if you practice continuously. I know you have a lot to do but just an hour each day will pay off a lot. If you’re going to look into test optional schools, I believe American Univ. is another one.
THANK GOD I’m not the only one in this condition. I have really good grades 3.86 UK but I got a 25 on my acat after studying with 20+ real practice tests…
My older daughter was a terrible test taker. She started out with an 18 and with a lot prep classes she improved to a 25. She attends Auburn University and has thrived in college. She’s now applying to PhD programs. Don’t let your score discourage you. Be realistic about your college choices. Most scholarships are based on test scores and need. If you work hard, you’ll have a bright future no matter where you land! Good luck!
@lushbomb Did you try the SAT? It give SOOO much more time! You should take the SAT - As soon as possible.
Try the SAT! Some students have better luck with one over the other and maybe you will too. Hurry to register though - I think the next one is early December.