What do I put for ACT Writing on the Common App?

Applying to College
1

Hey guys! So I took the ACT test with writing on September 2016, and I got a 10 on Writing and a 33 as my ELA score. What should I put down when the Common App asks for the highest combined English/Writing or Writing subject score?

2

Your combined English/Writing score is not the same as your ELA score (it doesn’t include the reading section score since it isn’t as important). There is a table on the ACT’s website to find out your combined E/W score. For example, if you got a 36 on English and a 10 essay, your combined E/W score is 34. I reported my combined E/W score instead of my single essay.

3

Check this out on Common Application Q&A

https://appsupport.commonapp.org/link/portal/33011/33013/ArticleFolder/23/Testing

There is one question specific to September 2016 writing subject score: enter 2-12

4

@DistraughtStudent

5

I had the same issue and when I called my admissions counselor to ask she said to just stick the writing number (so your 10). It sounds low when the option goes up to 36, but that’s just because they are still accepting the essays from the old ACT test (that was out of a 36 and not 12 like the new one). They will know how to judge the score when they see the date you took it at.

6

Thanks!