* Low ACT Essay Score But High Composite Score *

Test Preparation ACT Preparation
1

I recently got back my ACT results, and I scored very poorly on the essay (16/36), but did well overall (34 with subscores of 36 Math, 36 Science, 33 Reading, 29 Writing).

On the new SAT scored a 6/8, 7/8, and 7/8 for the three categories for the essay, which is much better than a 16/36.

I’m just generally surprised my ACT essay score was so low, how will that affect my competitiveness to colleges and just generally how important is it? Should I reconsider retaking?

(I’ve take honors English classes throughout high school and I’m generally a solid writer.)

2

I would contact ACT to have the essay rescored. It’s a $50 fee, and I believe the fee is refunded if the result is a higher score. Refer to the featured thread at the top of this sub forum “ACT essays inexplicably low”.

3

A lot of people on here are complaining about low writing scores. It’s quite possible that they incorrectly graded your essay, request a re-score.