Colleges for a 36 on the ACT

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• About a 36 ACT score
• Colleges to consider with a 36 ACT
• Search the full list of colleges

Is a 36 ACT Score Good?

Achieving a 36 on the ACT is an exceptional accomplishment. This score places you in the 99th percentile, meaning you performed better than 99% of test-takers. College admissions officers view a perfect ACT score as a strong indicator of academic proficiency and intellectual capability. Compared to the national average ACT score of around 20, a 36 is significantly higher, showcasing your preparedness for college-level work. To put it into perspective, a 36 on the ACT is equivalent to a 1590 on the SAT. This score suggests you possess outstanding critical thinking, problem-solving, and subject-specific knowledge.

Colleges You Can Get Into With a 36 on the ACT

With a 36 ACT score, you have the credentials to apply to some of the most prestigious and selective colleges in the country. Elite institutions like Harvard University, Stanford University, and the University of California Los Angeles are within reach. Public universities that typically admit students with such high scores include the University of Michigan, the University of Texas at Austin, and the University of Florida. Private colleges like Harvard, Stanford, and the University of Southern California also frequently admit students with perfect ACT scores. While your score opens doors to many top-tier schools, admission is still highly competitive, and other aspects of your application will also play a crucial role.

Should You Retake the ACT if You Score a 36?

If you already have a 36 on your ACT, there is no need to retake the test. A higher ACT score is not possible, and retaking it won't provide any additional benefits. Instead, focus on other parts of your college application to strengthen your candidacy. These can include enhancing your extracurricular activities, leadership experiences, writing compelling application essays, and securing strong letters of recommendation. By diversifying your achievements beyond test scores, you can improve your chances of admission at reach schools like Harvard and Stanford.

Scholarship Opportunities With a 36 ACT

A 36 ACT score can open the door to numerous merit-based scholarships. Many universities offer substantial financial aid packages and full-ride scholarships for students with top-tier test scores. Public universities like the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Florida often award significant merit scholarships to attract high-achieving students. Private institutions such as Stanford University and the University of Southern California also provide generous scholarships based on academic performance. With a perfect ACT score, you have a strong case for securing financial assistance to lower the cost of your college education.

Explore Colleges Where a 36 ACT is Within the Typical Score Range

A 36 ACT score significantly broadens your college options. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of 192 popular colleges where your score is within the typical range of accepted students. This list includes esteemed public schools like the University of Florida, the University of Texas at Austin, and the University of Michigan, along with private institutions such as Harvard University, Stanford University, and the University of Southern California. For those aiming for the pinnacle of academic excellence, even reach colleges like Harvard and Stanford recognize the potential behind a 36 ACT score. Explore the full list to identify the best fit for your academic and career goals.