Is 13 a Good ACT Score? Schools That Accept a 13 ACT

When you receive your ACT score, you might ask, ''Is 13 a good ACT score?'' The ACT is a key college entrance exam, and your score can impact your college admissions process.

Many students wonder how their ACT composite score compares to national averages and what it means for college eligibility. In this article, we'll explain whether or not 13 is a good ACT score, discuss the ACT score range, and provide a list of colleges that accept 13 ACT scores. For more on what counts as a good ACT score, keep reading.

Is 13 a Good ACT Score?

A 13 ACT score is considered low compared to the national average, which typically hovers around 21. Scoring a 13 places you in the 7th percentile nationally, meaning that about 93% of test-takers scored higher.

While a 13 is below average, it does not mean you have no college options. Some less-selective colleges and community colleges accept students with lower ACT scores, focusing more on other aspects of your application such as GPA, extracurricular activities, and essays. However, if your goal is to attend a more selective college, a higher score will improve your chances significantly.

How Is the ACT Scored?

The ACT is a standardized test with four main sections: English, math, reading, and science. Each section receives a scaled score from 1 to 36, based on the number of correct answers, with no penalty for wrong answers.

Your ACT composite score is the average of these four section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number. The ACT also offers an optional Writing test, scored separately.

The ACT score range allows colleges to compare applicants from different high schools and backgrounds using a common benchmark. Understanding your score can help you decide on the next steps, such as test preparation or a test retake.

What Happens If You Get a 13 on the ACT?

If you receive a 13 on the ACT, you are in the lower range of test scores. This score may limit your options for college admissions, especially at more selective institutions.

However, some colleges accept students with lower ACT scores, and community colleges often have open admissions policies, making them colleges that accept everyone. With a 13, you may need to focus on strengthening other parts of your college application, such as your GPA, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities. Additionally, you can consider retaking the ACT or exploring test-optional schools to improve your college acceptance prospects.

Will Colleges Accept a 13 ACT Score?

Yes, some colleges will accept a 13 ACT score, especially less-selective colleges, community colleges, and schools with open admissions policies. These institutions may place more emphasis on your high school GPA, personal statement, and other factors beyond standardized testing.

While a 13 ACT score is below the national average, it does not automatically disqualify you from college eligibility. However, it is important to research the ACT score requirements for each school on your college list for low ACT scores, as more selective colleges will typically expect higher scores for admission.

Colleges That Accept a 13 ACT Score

Nearly all community colleges in the United States have open-admissions policies. These institutions offer associate degrees, certificates, and transfer pathways to four-year colleges. Be sure to research community colleges in your area if you have a 13.

However, several four-year colleges accept low ACT scores, including a 13. These schools often have holistic admissions processes and may consider factors beyond test scores.

• Medgar Evers College (City University of New York): This public college in Brooklyn, NY, has a minimum ACT score requirement around 13. The school serves a diverse student body and offers a range of undergraduate programs.
• Pine Manor College: Located in Chestnut Hill, MA, Pine Manor College accepts students with ACT scores of 13 to 15. The college offers small class sizes and individualized attention.
• University of Maryland Global Campus: UMGC is a well-known public university with an open-admissions policy, especially popular among adult learners and military students. Admission is open to anyone with a high school diploma or GED, regardless of ACT or SAT scores.
• Weber State University: Based in Ogden, UT, Weber State University is a public institution with open enrollment for most undergraduate programs. Students are admitted as long as they have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Metropolitan State University of Denver: MSU Denver operates with an open-admissions policy for first-year applicants, making it a great choice for students with lower ACT scores.

FAQs About Scoring a 13 on the ACT

Scoring a 13 on the ACT can feel discouraging, but it's important to remember that college admissions consider more than just test scores. Here are answers to common questions about low ACT scores and college acceptance.

What Is the Lowest ACT Score a College Will Accept?

The lowest possible ACT composite score is 1, but very few colleges accept scores that low. Most colleges accepting low ACT scores will consider applicants with scores in the 12 to 15 range, especially community colleges and some less-selective four-year institutions.

However, even at these schools, a stronger GPA, compelling essays, and extracurricular involvement can help offset a low ACT score. Always check each college's ACT score requirements before applying.

Should I Retake the ACT With a 13 Score?

Yes, you should consider retaking the ACT if you scored a 13. Most students who retest see their composite score increase by about one point on average, and even a small improvement can expand your college options and scholarship eligibility.

Retaking the test also allows you to benefit from superscoring, where colleges consider your best section scores from multiple attempts. Before retaking, review your previous results and focus your study plan on areas needing the most improvement. There's no limit to how many times you can take the ACT, so a retake can be a practical step toward reaching your goals

How Can I Improve My Chances of Getting Into College With a 13 on the ACT?

To improve your chances of getting into college with a 13 on the ACT, it's important to strengthen other parts of your application and explore accessible college options. Here are practical steps you can take:

• Highlight your GPA: A strong high school GPA can help balance a low ACT score.
• Showcase extracurricular activities: Leadership roles, volunteer work, and clubs demonstrate your commitment and skills.
• Write a compelling personal statement: Share your story, goals, and motivations to stand out.
• Request strong recommendation letters: Ask teachers or mentors who know you well.
• Apply to test-optional or open-admissions colleges: These schools may not require ACT scores.
• Consider retaking the ACT: Focus on ACT test prep to improve your score.
• Explore community colleges: They offer accessible pathways with transfer options to four-year institutions.

What Is Considered a Good Score on the ACT?

A good ACT score is typically one that meets or exceeds the national average, which is around 21. For more selective colleges, a score in the 75th percentile or above (often 28 or higher) is considered competitive. However, what counts as a ''good'' score depends on your college list and the ACT score comparison for each school. Some colleges superscore, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test dates. Always research the ACT score requirements for your target schools.

Explore Online Colleges

If you're interested in flexible learning options, many of the colleges mentioned above offer online degree programs. Explore online colleges and universities on Learn.org to find programs that fit your needs and help you achieve your academic and career goals.