My ACT dropped

Applying to College
1

Soooo I’ve taken the ACT 4 times, and the results are as follows
1 - 30
2 - 28
3 - 31
4 - 29
Superscore - 32
Kind of interesting pattern, huh? I’m wondering if the UC schools will look at my latest score drop and view it negatively or simply consider it in my admissions? My top schools are UCLA and Berkeley so I’m worried it’ll affect my chances there. Please help!

2

The UC’s will take the highest score from a single sitting and do not superscore. If you are targeting both these schools, your ACT is within range but a bit on the low side depending upon intended major. Test scores are only one part of your application, so if everything else is competitive, you should be fine. Remember both schools should be considered Reaches regardless.

3

Okay, thank you! Both schools should be considered reaches regardless of what? Score? @Gumbymom

4

@kt1215 Most Cali people say UCLA and UCB are reaches no matter what your scores are, I respectfully disagree as they take high percentages of their very high scoring/ GPA applicants. However in your case and just based on the scores alone (only thing provided) it’s quite possible to be rejected by both if you wanted to be an engineering major, so in that case it’s a reach for you.

5

I concur with @CU123, intended major can make a difference on your chances and if UCLA/UCB will be a Reach, a High Reach or a Low Reach. Again it is a combination of several academic statistics such as your UC capped weighted GPA, fully weighted UC GPA, HS course rigor, EC’s and essays. You cannot determine any applicants chances just based on an ACT alone.

How UCB and UCLA review applications:

  • Berkeley
    *
  •   Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores

  •   Important: Extracurricular activities, Volunteer work, Work experience

  •   Considered: Character/personal qualities, First generation college student, State residency

  •   Note: Thorough review of academic performance; likely contribution to intellectual and cultural vitality of the campus; diversity in personal background and experience; demonstrated qualities in leadership, motivation, concern for others and community; non-academic achievement in the performing arts, athletics or employment; demonstrated interest in major.
  • LOR’s by invitation only as of 2017
  • Los Angeles

  • Very important: Academic GPA, Application essay, Rigor of secondary school record, Standardized test scores
  • Important: Character/personal qualities, Extracurricular activities, Talent/ability, Volunteer work, Work experience
  • Considered: First generation college student, Geographical residence
  • Note: GPA, test scores, course work, number of and performance in honors and AP courses most important. Essay considered. Strong senior program important. Extracurricular activities, honors and awards also reviewed.