I recently took the ACT, and my scores finally arrived. I got a 33 composite, with my Science/English/Reading subscores ranging from a 33-35. However, my math subscore was a mere 28. Would these scores affect my admissions into top/Ivy schools and/or the UC systems, especially if I were to apply as a STEM major, or should I just retake?
A 28 math subscore probably isn’t that competitive at the top schools. If you have enough time to work on improving your score, and if you do significantly better on practice tests, then I would suggest re-taking it. A 28 probably won’t sink you if you have a strong application overall though.
@Z.Exodus2008 Yeah, that’s what I was thinking. I really don’t want to give the ETS any more money but I earned a B in most of my STEM classes and I feel like I don’t have too many “outstanding qualities”, especially in math and science. I didn’t study for this ACT so it probably wouldn’t be too hard to improve.
What about simply taking a math subject test (sat)?
I’d hate to see someone w a 33 waste study time on ACT instead of real classes!
@HRSMom Would taking SAT math really compensate for the low ACT subscore? I was actually going to take it in the fall anyways.
Good news is you would have a 34 or 35 with a better math score. S was in the same situation with a similar scores and distribution, and he reviewed the algebra and geometry he had forgotten and some of the critical reading. He had a 3 pt composite improvement with a minimal (few weeks) effort.
If the schools that you are applying to break out the sub-scores, the 28 will affect your application. Same with most any better engineering program. If the school only uses the composite score, you are fine except for your reach schools.
At 33, I would say that it is worth taking again - especially since you only one area have to improve .
@TooOld4School Alright, thank you! I’m afraid of tanking my other subscores and of the fall curve but I think you’re right.