Is 17 a Good ACT Score? Schools That Accept a 17 ACT

If you've just received your ACT results and your composite score is a 17, you might be asking yourself, ''Is this a good ACT score?'' Understanding what your score means can help you plan your next steps, whether that's applying to colleges, retaking the test, or exploring other options.

In this article, we'll break down what a 17 ACT score represents, how it stacks up against national averages, and which colleges are likely to accept students with this score. Let's explore your opportunities and strategies for moving forward.

Is 17 a Good ACT Score?

A 17 ACT score is considered a below-average ACT score. The national average ACT score generally falls around 20 or 21, so a 17 places you below the midpoint of test-takers nationwide.

In terms of ACT score percentile, a 17 typically lands you in the 28th to 29th percentile. This means you performed better than about 28% to 29% of students who took the test, but most scored higher. While a 17 isn't a competitive score for highly selective colleges, there are still many schools that accept students with this score, such as colleges that accept everyone.

How Is the ACT Scored?

The ACT is a standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. It consists of four main sections: English, math, reading, and science. Each section is scored on a scale from 1 to 36.

The ACT composite score is the average of your four section scores, rounded according to ACT score rounding rules. Your composite and section scores are then compared to national percentiles, which show how your performance stacks up against other test-takers. Some colleges may also use ACT superscoring, where they consider your highest section scores from multiple test dates.

What Happens If You Get a 17 on the ACT?

Scoring a 17 on the ACT means your test scores are below the national average, but it doesn't mean your college dreams are over. Many less selective colleges and universities accept students with a 17 ACT score, especially if you have a strong GPA, extracurricular activities, or compelling essays.

Your percentile ranking means you outperformed about a quarter of students but have room to improve. You may want to consider retaking the ACT or focusing on holistic admissions factors to strengthen your application.

Will Colleges Accept a 17 ACT Score?

Yes, there are colleges that accept 17 ACT scores. While more competitive colleges and universities (like Harvard or those in the 75th percentile range) typically require higher scores, many public and private institutions have more flexible admissions standards.

Schools accepting a 17 ACT score often look at the whole applicant, considering GPA, extracurriculars, and essays alongside standardized test results. Some colleges also have test-optional policies, allowing you to apply without submitting ACT or SAT scores if you feel your academic record better reflects your abilities.

Colleges That Accept a 17 ACT Score

Many schools�especially public universities and smaller private colleges�accept applicants with a 17 ACT score. Here are examples of schools that consider students with this score, based on information from their official admissions pages:

• San Francisco State University: A large public university in California, SFSU typically accepts ACT scores in the 16 to 23 range, making a 17 competitive for admission.
• California State University Los Angeles: This public institution in Los Angeles accepts ACT scores as low as 15, with many admitted students scoring between 15 and 20.
• Clark Atlanta University: A private historically Black university in Georgia, Clark Atlanta considers applicants with ACT scores in the 16 to 20 range.
• Morgan State University: Located in Baltimore, MD, Morgan State is a public university that accepts ACT scores from 17 to 21. It also does not require that you submit test scores to apply.
• University of West Georgia: This public university in Carrollton, GA, admits students with ACT scores between 17 and 23.
• Mansfield University of Pennsylvania: Mansfield University, part of the Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania, has an average ACT score of 16 for admitted students, and applicants with a 17 ACT score are well within the typical range for acceptance.
• Paul Quinn College: Located in Dallas, Paul Quinn College values leadership and service. With an average ACT score of 15, a 17 ACT score makes applicants competitive for admission.

FAQs About Scoring a 17 on the ACT

If you're navigating the college admissions process with a 17 ACT score, you probably have a lot of questions. Here are answers to some of the most common concerns.

What Is the Lowest ACT Score a College Will Accept?

Colleges set their own admissions standards, and some schools accept ACT scores as low as 14 or 15, especially those with open admissions policies or community colleges. However, the lowest ACT score accepted by most four-year colleges is typically in the 15 to 17 range.

It's important to check each college's admissions website for specific requirements, as some schools may also consider students with lower scores if they have strong GPAs or other exceptional qualities.

Should I Retake the ACT With a 17 Score?

If your goal is to attend a more competitive college or qualify for more scholarships, retaking the ACT can be a smart move. Even a small increase�raising your score from 17 to 20�can move you from the 29th percentile to the 43rd percentile, significantly improving your chances at a wider range of schools.

Before you retake, consider using ACT prep resources and practice tests to target areas for improvement. However, if you're happy with your college options and your application is strong in other areas, a retake may not be necessary.

How Can I Improve My Chances of Getting Into College With a 17 on the ACT?

To boost your college admissions prospects with a 17 ACT score, focus on holistic admissions factors. Strengthen your GPA, participate in extracurricular activities, and craft compelling essays.

Some colleges offer ACT superscoring, so retaking the test and improving individual section scores can help. Also, explore test-optional colleges, where submitting your ACT score is not required.

What Is Considered a Good Score on the ACT?

A good ACT score is typically one that meets or exceeds the national average ACT score, which is around 20 or 21. Scoring in the 50th percentile or higher (18 to 19 and above) means you performed as well as or better than half of all test-takers.

For highly selective colleges, a good ACT score is often in the 75th percentile or higher, usually 28 or above. However, what's considered ''good'' can vary depending on your college goals and the schools you're applying to.

Explore Online Colleges

Whether you're interested in public universities, private colleges, or online degree programs, there are many paths to a rewarding education�even with a 17 ACT score. Explore online colleges and degree options offered by the schools featured here on Learn.org to find a program that fits your goals, schedule, and academic strengths.