Hi,
Happy new year to all. I am currently a Junior.
Took the ACT first time in OCT 2013, these are my scores:
English: 34
Math:35
Science:35
Reading:28
Writing:10/12
Comp:33
I wish to get in one of the top 25 schools, majoring in bio-med engineering or pre-med.
and also giving three subject SATs, have 800 on SAT MATH 2C. Also I am in the Columbia SHP.
Question is do i need to give the ACT again, as my reading score is not all that great. How much do reading scores weigh in, as when I see ACT requirements for college, they all state comp and Eng, Math, Sci.
I don’t plan on giving the SATs, as I just cannot get past 2150(800M, ~700W, ~650R) in practice tests.
Any insight or previous experience while applying greatly appreciated.
regards,
Rodawg
You did very well for that being your first time taking the ACT. However, I would recommend taking it at least one more time since most people do. Plus, it improves your chances of increasing your reading score. I have also heard that the top schools like to see the scores from each time you’ve taken the ACT, so I don’t think sending in one set of scores would be at your advantage.
Those are great scores (nearly identical to my own, just flip flop the math and reading xD).
I truly think those scores are good enough for the avenue you wish to pursue. Don’t stress out too much about your reading scores. For engineering and medical majors, they will generally focus on your math more than anything. Go enjoy senior year and don’t worry about taking another ACT. You did absolutely fine!
If you want to go to one of the top 25 schools in the country, then I would recommend taking the ACT again. Begin studying with a particular focus on the critical reading section; if you can get that score up, it’ll just enhance your application even more.
Doesn’t hurt to take it again, and it may help. Focus on any areas that gave you troubles.
Your ACT is great for your first time taking it but I agree with the others that you should take it again. For an Ivy or very prestigious school you want to score as high as you can. Just be careful that while you are working on your reading score, your other scores don’t drop. My first time taking the ACT, I scored a 35 in English but only a 30 my second time. Also, since you thinking about engineering or pre-med, try to get those 35’s in Math and Science to 36. You’re still a junior so you have plenty of time to prepare for another test. Good luck and don’t stress!
DEFINITELY take the ACT again. UIUC released decisions today and people with 32s for engineering were rejected. For even more selective universities, 33s would certainly be a easy cut.
I would also consider taking the SAT. I never got above a 1900 on practice tests but somehow managed a 2210 on the real thing… Sooooooooooooo