Is 28 a Good ACT Score? Colleges that Accept a 28 ACT

If you've scored a 28 on the ACT, you might be wondering just how far that number can take you. It's well above the national average and opens doors at many competitive colleges.

A 28 can help you qualify for scholarships and strengthen your overall college application, especially if paired with a solid GPA and strong extracurriculars. You're in a good position to start comparing options. To better understand how your score stacks up, see what's considered a good ACT score in the article below, along with colleges that accept a 28 ACT.

Is 28 a Good ACT Score?

Yes, a 28 on the ACT is considered a strong score. It typically places you in the top 12% of test-takers nationwide. That means you're above the national average by several points, giving you a competitive edge in college admissions. Schools with moderate to highly selective admissions often consider a 28 very favorably.

While it may not guarantee acceptance at the most elite universities, it meets or exceeds the ACT average at many respected public and private institutions. Combined with other strong application materials, a 28 can help you stand out.

How Is the ACT Scored?

The ACT includes four main sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Each section is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, and your composite score is the average of these four, rounded to the nearest whole number. There's also an optional Writing section, which is scored separately and doesn't affect your composite score.

You won't lose points for wrong answers, so it's smart to fill in every question. Most colleges focus on the composite score, but some schools may also review your section scores, especially if they align with your intended major.

Colleges That Accept a 28 ACT Score

A 28 ACT score puts you in a strong position for admission at many competitive universities. While test scores are just one part of your application, this score shows colleges that you're well-prepared for academic success.

1. University of Georgia

The University of Georgia (UGA) offers over 150 majors spanning agriculture, public health, journalism, engineering, and the arts. As the state's flagship university, UGA combines academic strength with Division I athletics and a vibrant campus life in Athens.

UGA uses a holistic review process and is test-optional. A 28 ACT score places applicants in a competitive position, particularly if paired with advanced coursework, a high GPA, and strong essays. Out-of-state students should be aware that admissions can be more selective.

• Estimated tuition: $10,034 (in-state); $30,878 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. University of Wisconsin-Madison

The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers more than 130 majors across fields like political science, nursing, education, and data science. As a major public research institution, it provides access to nationally ranked programs and hands-on learning opportunities.

Admission to UW-Madison is selective. The school is test-optional, but most enrolled students report ACT scores between 27 and 32. A 28 ACT score is competitive, especially if paired with a strong GPA, college-prep coursework, and compelling application essays.

• Estimated tuition: $11,606 (in-state); $16,638 to $42,104 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

3. Indiana University Bloomington

As the flagship campus of the IU system, Indiana University Bloomington features more than 200 majors in fields like business, informatics, education, music, and the liberal arts. The university is known for its strong research programs and global learning opportunities.

IU Bloomington evaluates applicants on academic rigor, GPA, and optional test scores. A 28 ACT is within range for admission, particularly if paired with strong grades. The school encourages students to submit essays and other materials to show academic motivation and personal strengths.

• Estimated tuition: $12,142 (in-state); $41,890 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

4. University of Washington

The University of Washington (UW)in Seattle offers more than 180 undergraduate majors across disciplines like engineering, business, social sciences, and public health. It's known for strong research programs and competitive departments, particularly in computer science and biological sciences.

UW uses a holistic admissions process and is test-optional. That said, a 28 ACT score falls within the typical range for admitted students. Applicants are also evaluated on GPA, course rigor, personal statements, and activities, making it a solid fit for students with strong overall applications.

• Estimated tuition: $12,973 (in-state); $43,209 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

5. Clemson University

Clemson University in South Carolina offers more than 80 undergraduate majors, including animal and veterinary sciences, biological sciences, and packaging science. The university is known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and business, and it supports hands-on learning through research and internship opportunities.

Admission to Clemson is selective. While ACT scores are optional, most admitted students have scores in the mid-to-high 20s. A 28 fits well within their typical range, especially when paired with a strong GPA and rigorous coursework.

• Estimated tuition: $14,038 (in-state); $39,350 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

6. University of Delaware

Located in Newark, the University of Delaware (UD) offers more than 150 undergraduate majors across colleges of engineering, business, education, health sciences, and arts and sciences. Known for its research programs and historic campus, UD supports experiential learning through internships and study abroad.

UD takes a holistic approach to admissions, considering GPA, class rank, course rigor, and test scores when submitted. A 28 ACT falls within the typical range for accepted students, and strong academic records or extracurriculars can help you stand out.

• Estimated tuition: $14,600 (in-state); $39,190 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

7. University of Colorado Boulder

Surrounded by mountain views, the University of Colorado (CU) Boulder offers bachelor's degrees in areas like environmental design, aerospace engineering, psychology, and media studies. The campus promotes sustainability, research, and global engagement across disciplines.

CU Boulder is test-optional, but a 28 ACT score is competitive and often aligns with midrange scores for admitted students. Admissions decisions also factor in GPA, curriculum strength, and personal essays, making well-rounded applicants more likely to be admitted.

• Estimated tuition: $14,606 to $20,678 (in-state); $44,748 to $48,736 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

8. New Jersey Institute of Technology

Known for its focus on STEM disciplines, the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) offers over 125 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as computer science, engineering, architecture, and business. The school emphasizes innovation and practical experience through co-ops and research.

Admission is competitive, especially for programs in engineering and computing. A 28 ACT score is within the average range of accepted students. NJIT also evaluates GPA, academic rigor, and involvement in STEM-related activities when reviewing applications.

• Estimated tuition: $16,334 (in-state); $34,024 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: MSCHE

9. University of Connecticut

The University of Connecticut (UConn) is a large public research university with hundreds of majors across fields like engineering, nursing, education, and digital media. It supports academic exploration through its honors program, learning communities, and global study options.

UConn takes a holistic approach to admissions. A 28 ACT score is considered competitive, especially if you're also in the top percent of your class or have a strong GPA. The school recommends submitting scores if they strengthen your application.

• Estimated tuition: $17,010 (in-state); $39,678 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

10. University of Minnesota Twin Cities

At the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, you can choose from over 150 majors, including programs in biological sciences, education, liberal arts, and data science. The school's urban Minneapolis location offers access to research, internships, and a major metropolitan area.

Admissions are selective, and most admitted students report ACT scores between 26 and 31. A 28 ACT is well within range, but strong grades and a rigorous high school curriculum are also essential. The university is test-optional and considers other parts of the application as well.

• Estimated tuition: $18,094 (in-state); $40,556 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: HLC

Can You Qualify for Scholarships With a 28 ACT score?

Yes, a 28 ACT score can help you qualify for merit-based scholarships at many colleges. Some universities automatically consider students with ACT scores in the high 20s for academic awards, especially when paired with a strong GPA.

You may also qualify for state-based grants or private scholarships that use ACT scores as part of their eligibility criteria. Always check the scholarship pages at each school to see if your score meets their requirements.

FAQs About Scoring a 28 on the ACT

A 28 ACT score can be a solid foundation for college admissions, but you might still have questions about how it compares to other scores or what steps to take next. These FAQs address whether you should retake the ACT, when to submit your score, and how it fits into your broader college application strategy.

Should I Retake the ACT if I Get a 28?

It depends on your goals. A 28 is already above the national average and strong enough for many selective colleges. But if your dream school has an average ACT closer to 32, retaking it might improve your chances. If you're aiming for merit aid or honors programs, a few more points could make a difference.

Should I Submit My 28 ACT Score?

In most cases, yes, a 28 is considered competitive at a wide range of colleges. If the school is test-optional and your GPA is also strong, your score can support your application. But if your academic record is stronger without the test, you might consider leaving it out, especially at highly selective test-optional schools.

Can I Get Into a Top 100 College With a 28?

Yes, many top 100 colleges accept students with ACT scores in the high 20s. While elite schools may expect higher scores, others view a 28 favorably when paired with solid grades, essays, and extracurriculars. Check each school's middle 50% ACT range to see where you fall.

Is 28 a Good ACT Score for Engineering Majors?

It can be, especially for public universities and less competitive programs. However, engineering schools often look closely at math subscores. If your math score is strong, a 28 can be enough. For more selective engineering programs, boosting your score to 30 or higher may help.

How Does a 28 ACT Compare to the SAT?

A 28 on the ACT roughly translates to an SAT score between 1300 and 1340. This comparison can help if you're considering submitting SAT scores instead. Both scores are strong, but some students perform better on one test than the other, so consider taking both if possible.

Explore Online Colleges

Whether you're aiming for a traditional campus or something more flexible, many of the colleges listed above also offer online degrees you can complete from anywhere. If a 28 ACT score aligns with your goals, consider exploring these online programs featured on Learn.org to find the right fit.