Is 15 a Good ACT Score? Schools That Accept a 15 ACT

Deciding whether a 15 is a good ACT score can be confusing, especially when you're thinking about your future college options. The ACT is a standardized test used by many colleges to help make admissions decisions, but not all schools have the same requirements.

Below, we'll break down what an ACT score of 15 means, how it compares to the national average, and which colleges that accept 15 ACT scores might be a good fit for you. Keep reading for more information about what you should do if you scored a 15 on the ACT.

Is 15 a Good ACT Score?

A 15 on the ACT is considered a below-average ACT score. The national average ACT score is around 20 or 21, which means a 15 falls below what most test-takers achieve.

In terms of ACT percentile, a 15 places you in about the 17th to 28th percentile, meaning that 72% to 83% of students scored higher than you. While this score may limit your options for more selective colleges, it does not mean you cannot attend college at all. Many schools, especially public universities and open-admissions colleges, which are colleges that accept everyone, will still consider applicants with a 15 ACT score.

How Is the ACT Scored?

When you take the ACT, you'll complete four sections: English, math, reading, and science. Each section is scored from 1 to 36, and your overall score�the composite�is the average of those four scores, rounded to the nearest whole number. For example, if you scored 16 in English, 15 in math, 14 in reading, and 15 in science, your composite score would be 15.

The good news is there's no penalty for guessing, so it's smart to answer every question. There's also an optional writing test, but that score is separate and doesn't impact your composite score.

What Happens If You Get a 15 on the ACT?

If you receive a 15 ACT score, you may feel concerned about your college admissions chances. While a 15 is below the ACT national average, it does not automatically disqualify you from attending college. Many colleges, especially those with less competitive admissions or test-optional policies, will consider applicants with a 15.

However, you may have fewer options among selective colleges, and it's a good idea to strengthen other parts of your college application, such as your GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.

Will Colleges Accept a 15 ACT Score?

Yes, some colleges will accept a 15 ACT score. While most selective colleges and universities have higher ACT score ranges for admitted students, there are public universities, private colleges, and test-optional colleges that accept 15 ACT scores.

These schools may place more emphasis on your academic profile, extracurricular activities, and other aspects of your application. Additionally, many colleges have holistic admissions processes, meaning they consider your entire background, not just your test scores.

Colleges That Accept a 15 ACT Score

A 15 ACT score can still open doors to a variety of colleges, especially those with less competitive admissions standards or open-admissions policies. Below is a college list of schools that accept a 15 ACT score or have ACT score ranges that include 15. Be sure to check each school's specific admissions requirements, as policies can change.

• Virginia State University: Virginia State University is a public historically Black university in Virginia with an ACT score range starting at 14, making it accessible for students with a 15 ACT score.
• Bethune Cookman University: This private university in Florida is known for its supportive environment and does not require ACT scores for enrollment. You'll be required to complete a placement test if you don't want to submit your scores.
• Huston-Tillotson University: At this private university in Austin, TX, you can be automatically accepted with a 2.5 GPA.
• Saint Augustine's College: Located in Raleigh, NC, this private college has a minimum ACT score requirement as low as 13, making it accessible to students with a 15.
• University of Hawai'i at Hilo: UH Hilo explains that if applicants have a 2.7 GPA, they do not need to submit test scores to be considered for enrollment.
• Alabama A&M University: This public university in Alabama accepts ACT scores as low as 14 and offers a supportive campus community. It waives the test-score requirement if you have a 2.0 GPA.
• Winston Salem State University: A public university in North Carolina without a test score requirement for students with a 2.5 GPA provides a variety of degree programs.

FAQs About Scoring a 15 on the ACT

If you're concerned about your ACT composite score, you're not alone. Below are some of the most common questions students have about scoring a 15 on the ACT, along with practical answers.

What Is the Lowest ACT Score a College Will Accept?

The lowest ACT score a college will accept varies by institution. Some colleges have open admissions policies and will accept students with any ACT score, while others set minimum requirements.

Most colleges require at least an 18 or 20, but some public universities and private colleges will accept students with a 15, especially if other aspects of the application are strong. Test-optional colleges may not require ACT scores at all, focusing instead on GPA, extracurricular activities, and essays.

Should I Retake the ACT With a 15 Score?

If your goal is to attend a more competitive college or increase your chances of receiving scholarships, retaking the ACT is a good idea. A higher score can open more college options and improve your academic profile.

Consider focused ACT prep, such as practice tests, tutoring, or online resources, before retaking the test. If standardized testing isn't your strength, you might also consider taking the SAT or applying to test-optional colleges.

How Can I Improve My Chances of Getting Into College With a 15 on the ACT?

If you have a 15 ACT score, don't worry�there are plenty of ways to boost your college application. Focus on keeping a strong GPA, getting involved in extracurricular activities, and taking on leadership roles when you can. A well-written personal essay and solid recommendation letters can also make a big difference.

Look for colleges that take a holistic approach to admissions or are test-optional, so they consider more than just your test scores. Showing your strengths in other areas can really help balance out a lower ACT score and improve your chances of getting in.

What Is Considered a Good Score on the ACT?

A good ACT score is generally considered to be above the national average, which is around 20 or 21. Scores in the 24 to 28 range are competitive for many mid-tier colleges, while scores above 30 are typically needed for highly selective colleges.

However, what counts as a good ACT score depends on the colleges you're interested in and their specific admissions requirements. Always compare your score to the ACT score range for your target schools and consider their average ACT score for admitted students.

Explore Online Colleges

A 15 ACT score doesn't have to limit your college options. Many of the schools listed above offer online degree programs, making higher education accessible no matter where you live. Explore online colleges and degree programs on Learn.org to find the right fit for your academic and career goals.