Colleges for a 21 on the ACT

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• About a 21 ACT score
• Colleges to consider with a 21 ACT
• Search the full list of colleges

Is a 21 ACT Score Good?

When evaluating whether a 21 ACT score is good, it's important to consider that this score places you in the 55th percentile of all test-takers. This means you have scored better than 55% of students who took the ACT, which is slightly above average. The national average ACT score hovers around a 20, so a 21 is just one point above the average. From the perspective of college admissions officers, a 21 ACT indicates a solid foundation of academic achievement, but it may not make you stand out in a highly competitive applicant pool. The SAT equivalent to a 21 ACT is approximately a 1080. Essentially, this score shows you have a good grasp of high school material but leaves room for improvement if you're aiming for more selective institutions.

Colleges That Accept a 21 ACT Score

With a 21 ACT score, you can gain admission to a wide range of colleges varying in prestige and selectivity. Many public universities, such as Arizona State University, the University of Kentucky, and East Carolina University, typically accept students with this score. In the private sector, schools like Howard University and Savannah College of Art and Design also consider applicants with a 21 ACT. However, if you're aiming for more prestigious or selective schools, such as The University of Texas at Austin or Michigan State University, your 21 ACT score might land you in the "reach" category. The full list of 692 colleges where a 21 ACT is within the typical score range of accepted students can be explored below, providing you with numerous options to consider.

Should You Retake the ACT If You Score a 21?

Deciding whether to retake the ACT after scoring a 21 depends on your specific goals and the colleges you aim to attend. If you're targeting schools with higher selectivity, raising your score could significantly improve your chances of admission. On average, students see a 1-2 point increase upon retaking the test, but with focused preparation, more substantial improvements are possible. If a higher ACT score can place you in the competitive range for reach schools like The University of Alabama, retaking the test is worth considering. Besides improving your ACT score, enhancing your application with strong extracurriculars, a compelling personal essay, and solid recommendation letters can also boost your admission prospects.

Scholarship Opportunities with a 21 ACT

A 21 ACT score opens up several merit-based scholarship opportunities, although they may not be as plentiful or substantial as those for higher scores. Many public universities offer scholarships that consider academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities, where a 21 ACT can still make you a strong contender. For example, state schools and less selective private institutions often provide merit aid to students who demonstrate promise despite an average test score. Scholarships based on specific talents, community service, or unique experiences might also be within reach. Reviewing scholarship criteria at your target schools can reveal additional opportunities specific to applicants with your academic profile.

Explore Your Options

The journey to finding the right college with a 21 ACT score involves understanding your options and making informed decisions. Although this score may not open doors to the most elite institutions, it certainly provides access to a vast array of credible universities where you can thrive academically and personally. Explore the full list of 692 colleges below to discover schools where your ACT score aligns with their accepted range. Remember, each college values different aspects of your application, so take time to highlight your strengths and unique qualities beyond just your test scores.