Is 18 a Good ACT Score? Schools That Accept an 18 ACT

If you've scored an 18 on the ACT, you might be wondering what that means for your college plans. Is it a good ACT score? How will colleges see it?

Don't worry�an 18 isn't the highest score, but it's not the end of the road either. This article will help you understand what an 18 ACT score means, how it compares to other scores, and which schools might welcome you with that score.

Is 18 a Good ACT Score?

An 18 ACT score falls slightly below the national average, which typically hovers around 20 to 21. This score places you in the 38th percentile, meaning you scored higher than about 38% of test-takers but lower than the majority.

While it's not considered a strong score for highly selective colleges, an 18 can still be competitive at some less selective institutions, such as colleges that accept everyone, especially if you have a solid GPA, strong extracurricular activities, or other strengths in your application.

How Is the ACT Scored?

The ACT is scored on a scale from 1 to 36, with your composite score being the average of your four section scores: English, math, reading, and science. Each section is scored individually, and the composite score is rounded to the nearest whole number.

The writing section, if taken, is scored separately from 2 to 12. Your score report will show both your composite score and your section scores, helping colleges interpret your academic strengths and weaknesses.

What Happens If You Get an 18 on the ACT?

Scoring an 18 on the ACT means you performed better than about a third of all test-takers, but it also means there are many applicants with higher scores. With a score of 18, your college options may be more limited, and you may not meet the benchmarks for more competitive schools. However, some colleges do accept students with scores in this range, especially if you compensate with a strong GPA, compelling essays, or notable extracurricular activities.

Will Colleges Accept an 18 ACT Score?

Yes, some colleges will accept an 18 ACT score, but your choices may be limited to less selective schools or community colleges. Many colleges now also offer test-optional admissions, allowing you to apply without submitting standardized test scores.

If you're aiming for a specific college, check their admissions requirements to see if your score is within their acceptance range. Strengthening other parts of your application can also improve your chances.

Colleges That Accept an 18 ACT Score

While an 18 ACT score is below the national average, there are still colleges that consider applicants with this score. These schools may have holistic admissions processes that look at your GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal essays alongside your test scores.

• Livingstone College: A private, historically Black college in North Carolina, Livingstone College typically accepts students with ACT scores starting at 15 to 18.
• Rust College: Located in Mississippi, Rust College is a liberal arts institution that accepts ACT scores as low as 16, making an 18 competitive.
• Pine Manor College: Based in Massachusetts, Pine Manor College accepts students with ACT scores in the mid-teens and above.
• Harris-Stowe State University: This public university in Missouri often admits students with ACT scores starting at 17 to 18.
• Paul Quinn College: A private historically Black college in Texas, Paul Quinn College considers applicants with ACT scores of 16 and above.
• Morgan State University: A public university in Maryland known for its strong programs in engineering and business, accepting ACT scores starting around 18.
• North Carolina A&T State University: A well-regarded university in North Carolina, North Carolina A&T accepts ACT scores starting at 16 to 18.
• San Francisco State University: A public university in California with a diverse student body, San Francisco State accepts ACT scores from 16 to 23.
• California State University Los Angeles: Part of the CSU system, this university accepts ACT scores starting at 15, making an 18 competitive.

FAQs About Scoring an 18 on the ACT

Scoring an 18 on the ACT brings up many questions about college admissions, scholarships, and next steps. Here are some of the most common questions students have about this score.

Is 18 a Passing Score on the ACT?

There is no official ''passing'' score on the ACT, as it's not a pass/fail test. Instead, your score is used by colleges to compare you to other applicants. An 18 is below the national average, but it is still a valid score and can be used for admission at some colleges. If your target schools list a minimum ACT score, check to see if 18 meets their requirements.

What Is Considered a Good Score on the ACT?

A good ACT score is typically one that meets or exceeds the average score of admitted students at your target colleges. Nationally, the average ACT score falls around 20 to 21, with scores of 24 or higher considered above average. Highly selective colleges often look for scores in the upper 20s or 30s. However, what's considered ''good'' depends on the schools you're applying to and their specific admissions standards.

What Is the Average ACT Score a College Will Accept?

The average ACT score accepted by colleges varies widely. Many public universities and less selective colleges accept scores in the high teens to low twenties, while more competitive schools expect scores in the mid-to-high twenties or above. Always check the middle 50% ACT score range for your prospective colleges to see how your score compares.

Can You Get a Scholarship With an 18 on the ACT?

Scholarship eligibility often depends on a combination of factors, including GPA, extracurricular activities, and standardized test scores. While many merit-based scholarships require higher ACT scores, some colleges and organizations offer scholarships for ACT scores in the high teens, especially if you have a strong academic record or other achievements.

Need-based aid is also available regardless of test scores. Be sure to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see what you qualify for.

How Hard Is It To Get an 18 on the ACT?

An 18 on the ACT is achievable for many students with consistent study and test prep. It represents a score that is below the national average but still within reach for students who prepare using practice tests, review key concepts, and work on test-taking strategies. If you're aiming to improve your score, consider retaking the test after additional preparation.

Explore Online Colleges

If you're interested in pursuing higher education with an 18 ACT score, consider exploring online degree options from the colleges listed above. Visit Learn.org to discover more about online colleges and find the right fit for your educational goals.