On my June ACT, I recieved a 34 (E36, M31, R36, S34)
However, all I needed to improve to a 35 would be 1 point in any section. I had to guess on the last five math problems so I know I have the ability to make a 35. Is a 1 point jump in composite score enough to make a significant difference on college applications? Is it worth the stress and time to take it again?
Thanks for any help
A 34 is a great score. I think the main thing to think about is whether you can truly improve upon that math score. How were you doing on practice tests? Are you applying for a STEM major? For example, at MIT, the 25th-75th percentile for ACT math (admitted students) is 34-36.
My guess is that most schools would not consider a score of 35 vastly superior to a 34. There are a few schools (Vanderbilt and Wash U come to mind) that seem to really value 35+ composite. Also, a higher score could mean meeting scholarship thresholds for certain schools.
@Jennings99 on practice tests I was doing a lot better on the math section. I plan to apply to college as a liberal arts major, so I’m not too concerned about the math and will gladly submit this score, especially since I got perfect scores on English and reading. It’s just extremely frustrating that I was so close to achieving a better score.
Thanks for your reply
If you have only taken the test once, I don’t think it would hurt to take it one more time, especially if you think you can improve your math score. It probably won’t be as stressful since you already have a great score.
What schools are on your list?
If you have the time and money, I do not see any harm to retake it, given you can always delete the score if you do not like (from what I read, it will take a few weeks). However, can you guarantee that you will get 36 for E and R the second time?
@Jennings99 this was actually my second time taking it, and I improved two points on the composite level. I’m looking at Georgetown and the UT Plan II and LAH honors programs as my top choices
@annamom exactly my dilemma! this is the first time i have scored perfect scores on the english and reading sections and am worried about my ability to do so again
I think, in many cases, there is an element of luck for scores above 34. Therefore, if you have the time and money, I see no harm in taking the test again. Obviously, many will tell you that if you were rejected, it won’t be because of the 34. You can always delete the lower score.
Keep in mind that Georgetown will require you to send all sittings of the ACT. Your score from June is excellent. There is no guarantee that you would go up a point, and actually there is a better chance you would stay the same or decline. You may be better off using the time to work on the app. Georgetown has a lot of very specific essays that they place importance on.
@annamom @wisteria100 Great! Thanks for the helpful advice. I was not aware that I would have to send all sittings of the ACT.
A 34 to 35 would not be a difference at those schools, Gtown recommends three subject tests so you could take the Math 2 to show your math knowledge.
@theloniusmonk great! thanks