I received my ACT scores from Feb 11 and I’m mostly happy except for the math score, which was very low (and lower than I had been scoring on practice tests.)
English: 35
Math: 30
Reading: 35
Science: 35
Essay: 10
I’m looking at top-20 colleges and I am applying STEM. I plan to take the Math 2 SAT subject test to prove I can do math, plus I have all A’s in my math courses, which are all Honors level courses (school doesn’t offer APs). Should I take the June ACT to try and increase my math score? What are your thoughts? Thanks in advance.
I, personally, think that your ACT is fine, since (I’m assuming) admissions officers will see how well you did in your other math exams and classes and not place too much weight on the ACT math section subscore. However, if you keep dwelling on that math ACT score and it’s easy for you to prep for the ACT and pay the fees one more time, I wouldn’t protest you wanting to retake it. Also, you should check what the average ACT score is for the your top 20 schools and see if your ACT composite is well above the average or if the math drags you down. If the math drags you down and you’re applying to really REALLY competitive schools, I might recommend retaking the ACT. Hope this helps!
The math section on the ACT is definitely easier than the honors courses you’ve been getting As in. Likely the problem is the timing, and maybe some basic formulas you’ve forgotten. I would sign up for the June and to prep practice only math sections just to increase your speed. Will definitely be worth it if not just to raise your overall score. Good luck!