<p>I scored a 33 on the ACT on my first try. Here's the breakdown by section...</p>
<p>C: 33
E: 34
M: 31
R: 33
S: 33
W: 8</p>
<p>I'm looking to apply to competitive schools. I'm not going to post my full list here, but I do plan on applying to Ivies, is my ACT score too low? I really don't want to have to shell out $70+ to retake it.</p>
<p>I think in general, students do better on a 2nd try. I encouraged my DD (who got 32 her 1st try) to retake b/c her sci score was unusually low. She did and improved like I thought. Her composite didn’t ramp up though – but for her target colleges, she was fine. I think if you sense you can improve, another afternoon and the value of a new video game, is a good investment – especially if you’ll be targeting very competitive schools – which by definition, are tough to achieve. GL</p>
<p>Google the Common Data Set for your school list, sections C7 and C9</p>
<p>If my scores are in the middle 50% range, does that mean they’re fine?</p>
<p>Yes, you want your test scores to be at least in the middle 50%. A 33 is okay, but it might not be competitive at Ivies (though this is a loose generalization to make when we don’t have any other details on your app like EC’s or GPA). You shouldn’t have to shell out $70+ to retake; the ACT is only $55 per session with writing. If you’re eligible for fee waivers, retaking it becomes even more reasonable. You don’t have to retake both tests; pick the one you did best on or that you felt you understood the best and just retake that one. Besides, going up even by one point will increase your chances and might bump up merit aid as well.</p>
<p>If your score is within the 25%-75% range for the schools you are applying to, you are competitive for admission there, given you have excellent qualifications in the rest of your admissions profile.</p>