Is 21 a Good ACT Score? Schools That Accept a 21 ACT

When preparing for college, understanding your ACT score is a key part of the admissions process. Many students wonder, ''Is 21 a good ACT score?'' The answer depends on how your score compares to the national average, college requirements, and your own goals.

Below, we'll break down what a 21 ACT score means, how it's interpreted by colleges, and provide a list of schools accepting 21 ACT scores. For more on what makes a good ACT score, keep reading.

Is 21 a Good ACT Score?

A 21 ACT score is considered average and places you right around the national midpoint for test-takers. This means you performed as well as or better than about half of all students who took the ACT.

While a 21 may not meet the requirements for the most selective colleges, it is a solid score for many public universities and moderately competitive schools. Ultimately, a ''good'' ACT score depends on your target colleges and your overall application.

How Is the ACT Scored?

The ACT is a standardized test with four main sections: English, math, reading, and science. Each section is scored on a scale from 1 to 36. Your ACT composite score is the average of these four section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number.

Colleges usually focus on your composite score, but some may consider individual section scores or use a superscore, which combines your highest section scores from multiple test dates. Percentile rankings show how your score compares to other test-takers nationwide.

What Happens If You Get a 21 on the ACT?

If you earn a 21 on the ACT, you're in the 50th to 57th percentile, meaning you scored higher than about half of all students who took the test. This score makes you eligible to apply to a wide range of colleges, especially public universities and some private schools.

While you may not qualify for the most selective institutions, you can still find many colleges that accept everyone or have flexible admissions standards. Remember, colleges also consider your GPA, extracurricular activities, and essays.

Will Colleges Accept a 21 ACT Score?

Yes, many colleges will accept a 21 ACT score, especially public universities and less selective private colleges. While a 21 may not be competitive at Ivy League or top-tier schools, it meets or exceeds the minimum ACT score requirements at hundreds of institutions across the country.

Your chances of admission also depend on your GPA, course rigor, and other aspects of your application. Some schools are test-optional, so you may not need to submit ACT scores at all.

Colleges That Accept a 21 ACT Score

A 21 ACT score opens the door to a variety of colleges and universities. Many public institutions and moderately selective schools list a 21 as part of their middle 50% ACT score range. Here are some schools where a 21 ACT score is within or near the accepted range:

• University of Kentucky: Known for its strong programs in health and engineering, this Lexington-based university accepts ACT scores from 21 to 28.
• East Carolina University: Located in Greenville, NC, ECU is a public university with an ACT range of 20 to 26.
• University of Hawai'i at Manoa: Hawaii's flagship campus, accepting ACT scores from 20 to 27.
• University of Arizona: A major research institution in Tucson, the ACT range for incoming students is 21 to 30.
• Kennesaw State University: Located in Georgia, this university's ACT range is 21 to 24, making it accessible for students with a 21.
• Texas State University: A public university in San Marcos, Texas, with an ACT range of 19 to 26.
• San Jose State University: This California State University campus does not require applicants to submit their ACT scores.
• Appalachian State University: Located in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, the ACT range is 21 to 27.
• Grand Valley State University: A public university in Michigan, the ACT range for admitted students is 21 to 28.

FAQs About Scoring a 21 on the ACT

Scoring a 21 on the ACT raises many questions about college admissions, scholarships, and how your score compares to others. Below are answers to some of the most common questions.

Is 21 a Passing Score on the ACT?

The ACT does not have a formal passing or failing score. Instead, your score is interpreted based on percentile rankings and college requirements.

A 21 ACT score is considered average, placing you around the 50th percentile nationally. This means you performed as well as or better than about half of all test-takers. Many colleges accept students with a 21, but some schools, especially highly selective ones, may require higher scores.

What Is Considered a Good Score on the ACT?

A good ACT score is typically one that meets or exceeds the average for your target colleges. Nationally, the average ACT composite score is around 20 to 21.

Scores in the low 20s are considered average to slightly above average. For more selective colleges, a good score may be in the high 20s or 30s. Always check the ACT score range for colleges you're interested in to set your goals.

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 private colleges accept students with ACT scores in the 19 to 23 range.

More selective colleges and universities often look for scores in the mid-to-high 20s or above. It's important to review the ACT score middle 50% range for each college to understand your admissions chances.

Can You Get a Scholarship With a 21 on the ACT?

Some colleges and organizations offer scholarships to students with a 21 ACT score, especially if paired with a strong GPA or extracurricular activities. While many merit scholarships require higher scores, a 21 can still qualify you for institutional aid or state grants at certain schools. Always check the scholarship requirements at your target colleges, as criteria vary.

How Hard Is It To Get a 21 on the ACT?

Achieving a 21 on the ACT requires a solid understanding of high school-level material and some test prep. It represents average performance among test-takers, so with consistent study, practice tests, and review of ACT section scores, many students can reach this benchmark. Focused ACT prep and identifying your weaker sections can help you improve your score if you wish to retake the test.

Explore Online Colleges

A 21 ACT score can help you access a wide range of colleges, including many that offer online degree programs. Explore the online options at the universities featured here on Learn.org to find flexible pathways toward your educational and career goals.