Colleges for a 18 on the ACT

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• About a 18 ACT score
• Colleges to consider with a 18 ACT
• Search the full list of colleges

Is an 18 ACT Score Good?

When considering college admissions, an ACT score of 18 can be a bit of a mixed bag. In terms of percentiles, a score of 18 places you in the 34th percentile, which means you have scored better than 34% of test-takers nationwide. Compared to the national average ACT score, which hovers around 20, an 18 is slightly below average. To put this in perspective, an ACT score of 18 is equivalent to an SAT score of roughly 970. While this score indicates a solid understanding of high school-level academics, it might not make you a competitive candidate for more selective colleges. However, it still leaves room for numerous opportunities at a wide range of institutions. Remember, admissions officers consider multiple facets of your application, and an ACT score is just one piece of the puzzle.

Colleges that Accept an 18 ACT Score

With an ACT score of 18, you will find that your college options are generally more accessible in the less selective and some moderately selective categories. Many public universities such as the University of Hawaii at Manoa, San Francisco State University, and several California State Universities, such as those in Los Angeles, Fullerton, and Sacramento, typically accept students with an 18 ACT. Private institutions like Clark Atlanta University, Hampton University, Wingate University, and Tuskegee University also fall within this score range. While these schools may not be elite, they still offer quality education and numerous opportunities for growth and success. On the higher end, schools like Arizona State University, The University of Alabama, and San Diego State University can be considered reach schools where additional strengths in your application could make you a competitive candidate.

Should You Retake the ACT if You Score an 18?

Deciding whether to retake the ACT depends on several factors, including your target colleges and their typical ACT score ranges. If a higher score could significantly boost your chances at your dream schools, it may be worth the effort. Incremental improvements are common; gaining an extra 2 to 4 points on a retake is a realistic goal. A higher score could open the door to more selective institutions and provide additional scholarship opportunities. Besides retaking the test, you can also enhance your application by excelling in other areas such as your GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal statements. Holistic applications are increasingly common, and showing well-rounded capabilities can offset a lower ACT score.

Scholarship Opportunities with an 18 ACT

When it comes to scholarships, an ACT score of 18 might limit some high-value merit-based awards, but it doesn't exclude you from all opportunities. Numerous colleges offer merit-based scholarships aimed at a variety of talents and achievements beyond test scores. With an 18 ACT, you can still apply for and receive scholarships based on other criteria such as community service, leadership, and specific academic interests. Additionally, many schools, including those within the list of colleges below, have dedicated funds to support students with a range of academic profiles. Exploring these options can help you secure financial aid and make higher education more affordable.

Exploring Your College Options

With an ACT score of 18, you have a broad spectrum of colleges to consider. You can explore a comprehensive list of 399 popular colleges where an 18 ACT is within the typical score range of accepted students, including public schools like the University of Hawaii at Manoa, San Francisco State University, and several California State Universities, as well as private colleges like Clark Atlanta University, Hampton University, and Wingate University. This extensive list offers a multitude of environments and programs to help you achieve your educational goals. Additionally, consider aiming for reach schools like Arizona State University and The University of Alabama, where a holistic application could tip the scales in your favor. Scroll down to explore the full list of 399 colleges and start mapping out your academic future.