What Is a Good ACT Score for Ivy League Admissions?

Getting into an Ivy League school is a dream for many students, and achieving competitive ACT scores is often a critical part of the admissions process. These elite institutions, known for their rigorous academic standards and selective admissions, generally expect applicants to present ACT scores that rank among the highest nationally. While an impressive ACT score is not the sole determinant of success, it can significantly strengthen an applicant’s chances.

Ivy League ACT Score Expectations

Ivy League colleges typically seek students who score in the top 1% nationally in ACT test scores. For context, the average ACT score nationwide is around 20.8. For Ivy Leagues, however, successful applicants often receive ACT test scores between 34 and 36 out of 36, placing them well above this national average.

Below is a breakdown of the middle 50% ACT score range for some Ivy League institutions based on recent data:

These ranges indicate the scores of the middle 50% of admitted students, meaning 25% of students scored below and 25% scored above these numbers. For the most competitive applicants, aiming for a 34 or higher is ideal.

Why ACT Scores Matter for Ivy League Admissions

Standardized test scores offer insight into the student’s overall understanding and comprehension of their high school career. Submitting test scores to admissions officers helps them look at your composite ACT score and breakdowns and compare them to other Ivy League applicants’ ACT English scores and ACT math scores, for example.

• A Benchmark of Academic Excellence: High ACT scores or SAT scores demonstrate a student’s academic abilities and readiness for rigorous coursework. Ivy League institutions use standardized test scores as a universal metric to compare applicants from diverse educational backgrounds, including international students.
• Strengthening a Holistic Application: Ivy League admissions committees evaluate students holistically, considering extracurriculars, essays, recommendations, and personal achievements. A strong ACT or SAT score complements these elements, reinforcing applicants’ academic potential to get into their target school.
• Setting You Apart from the Competition: With acceptance rates typically below 10%, Ivy Leagues attract highly qualified applicants. A high ACT score can help differentiate you in a pool of similarly accomplished candidates applying to Harvard University or other top universities.

Preparing for Ivy League ACT Scores

Near-perfect grades in honors and AP classes and excellent performance on standardized tests are just a part of gaining acceptance to top Ivy League schools. Even if the school is test-optional, you should always aim to submit good SAT/ACT scores to gain an edge over other students. The admissions committee will appreciate your dedication to preparing for the test.

Set a Target Score

Research the specific ACT score ranges of your target schools and set a target score within or above those ranges. This provides a clear goal and helps focus your preparation.

Take Practice Tests

Regular practice tests are essential for improving your performance. They help identify strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to refine your study strategy and achieve scores above naturally good test takers.

Focus on Weak Areas

Whether it’s math, science, reading, or English, devote extra time to sections where you need the most improvement. Consider using resources like ACT prep books and online prep courses.

Retake the Test if Necessary

The vast majority of students take the ACT more than once to achieve their best score. Ivy League schools generally superscore the ACT, meaning they consider your highest section scores across multiple test dates, not just your highest composite score.

How to Balance ACT Scores with Other Application Components

Even more than other schools, Ivy League schools value well-rounded students who excel in academics, extracurriculars, and personal character compared to other applicants.

• Engage in meaningful extracurricular activities that showcase leadership, passion, and impact. Whether it’s founding a club, excelling in athletics, or volunteering, these experiences demonstrate qualities that go beyond academics.
• Your application essays are your opportunity to share your unique story, perspective, aspirations and demonstrate how you will add value to your dream school. Use this space to highlight what makes you a standout candidate.
• Seek recommendations from teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your abilities, character, and potential for success at an Ivy League school. Recommendations are an important factor to make up the difference for less-than-perfect scores.
• A strong SAT/ACT score paired with a high GPA demonstrates consistent academic excellence. Weighted GPAs that reflect challenging coursework, such as AP or IB classes, are particularly valuable.

Achieve Admittance to Top Schools

Achieving a competitive ACT score for Ivy League admissions requires dedication, preparation, and strategic effort. While aiming for a score within the 34–36 range is critical, remember that admissions qualifications are holistic at most universities.

Spark Admissions is dedicated to helping you achieve admittance to several of your best-fit colleges and universities, regardless of the acceptance rate at the Ivy League schools. Partner with us to increase your chances of success!

About The Author

Dr. Rachel Rubin

Dr. Rachel Rubin is the co-founder of Spark Admissions and holds a doctorate from Harvard University, where she was a Presidential Scholar. A former university faculty member and high school teacher, she understands the needs of adolescents and excels in guiding them through the admissions process, from identifying best-fit colleges to refining application essays. A U.S. Presidential Scholar and member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, Dr. Rubin has helped thousands of students gain acceptance to their top-choice schools.

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