Hello. I am currently debating on whether or not to retake the ACT. I took it for the first time in February, receiving a score of 34. My splits were 32 Math, 35 Science, 34 English, and 33 Reading. I plan to apply to HYPSM(except MIT) as a bio or neuroscience major. Would retaking it be a waste of my time or should I go with my score. Thank you.
Your score is fine congrats! You can retake in the fall if you want (you might do a bit better after you learn more material), but your score right now is absoutely fine for any school.
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If you’re a Junior ,yes retake. You have a 33.5 - and you want to see a higher math score if possible.
It is a terrific score - but you are looking at schools where it might not be competitive.
Good luck.
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Having spent a lot of time looking at SCOIR for our feederish HS–for HYPS specifically, I think retaking once to see if you can get that up to a 35 or 36 is not a bad idea. I wouldn’t sacrifice much to do that, but if you can fit in some prep and the test itself comfortably, I think it could be worth a shot.
And what other colleges will you be applying to beside the selective ones you have mentioned? Even with a perfect ACT score, you won’t be guaranteed admission to HYPS.
But yes, take the ACT one more time.
Have you tried the SAT? Some find that to be a better test for them.
Great job on the first try! I would highly recommend math and science as close to 36 as possible if you have the time. For top schools you mentioned and as a science major, being close to 35-36 in math and science is almost a reprequisite to be considered, unless you have a very eye catching background or awards.
I have a child who is a senior - straight A, 800 in math, 750 in English, 14 AP and 1 DE - and he has been rejected by 4 Schools in the T10-30 range, accepted by 3 and waitlisted by 1. College app process is becoming more and more unpredictable each year. I would encourage you to try 1-2 more time and see how it goes! Goodluck.
ya i alr have a 1500 but I prefer the ACT
Your ACT and SAT scores are very good. You might retake one to see if you can move it higher, especially if you can put some more time into preparing.
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