I got a 34 composite score--Should I retake the ACT?

Test Preparation ACT Preparation
1

I just got my letter in the mail, with a comp score of 34, with zero studying–my school offered the test for the entire grade and so I thought I’d just take it, see what I get, then retake.

English: 35
Math: 30
Reading: 35
Science: 36

I think I could up my math (I’m currently in Alg 2, room to grow) by 2-5 points, and maybe bump up english or reading a point with good prep. I also got only a 27 on the essay–I ran out of time and had to crush my conclusion and final 1/2-paragraph into two sentences, so I could definitely do better there. Given this score was with no study or test experience besides the PSAT, should I retake? What do you think?

2

No, you shouldn’t retake

3

What are you planning on majoring in? It might help to bring up your math but you could also do that by taking the Math II subject test.

4

Not sure I’d re-take, but I do love the Math II subject test idea above. ^^

5

If you can get math up two points then you get a 35 which puts you in an even more elite group of kids. If you don’t want to retake make sure you take the SAT Math Level 2 and score well on it so colleges can see that you are proficient at math and you’re not significantly weaker at math than other subjects.

6

Unless you are applying to the most super selective colleges in USA I wouldn’t bother.

7

Thanks for all the help you guys! I appreciate it.

8

And a 27 essay, if that matters–I know I could bump that score as I ran out of time as missed my conclusion paragraph…

9

Don’t retake. You will benefit more by ensuring the rest of your application is strong.

10

My S says his biggest mistake was not taking SAT IIs. He had a 34. Good enough, but other kids had a 34 AND SAT II scores in the high 7s! Had he planned better, he could have too.

Unless you need lots of merit $, focus on a math SAT II. It is becoming “expected” even at the optional schools!!! Good luck!