Should I Send My ACT Scores To Colleges?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You are applying to schools that explicitly require or heavily weigh ACT scores, and your score is above the average for admitted students.
• Good fit: You have a strong ACT score that can offset a lower GPA or limited extracurriculars, helping you stand out in a competitive applicant pool.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: The colleges you’re targeting have adopted a test‑optional or test‑flexible policy, and your ACT score is near or below their median.
• Warning sign: You have already used up the free score‑reporting limit for the ACT (usually four score reports) and would need to pay additional fees, stretching a limited budget.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Provides an objective, nationwide benchmark that many admissions committees still value, especially for scholarships tied to test performance.
• Can strengthen an application when other components (GPA, coursework) are weaker, giving you a broader portfolio of evidence.

Cons

• May add unnecessary cost if the schools you’re applying to do not consider scores, leading to wasted money.
• If the score is lower than you hoped, sending it could unintentionally draw attention away from stronger parts of your record.

Decision Checklist

• Do the colleges on my list require or strongly recommend ACT scores?
• Is my ACT score above the median for admitted students at each target school?
• Can I afford any additional score‑reporting fees, or do I have free reports left?

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re unsure about sending your ACT scores, you can opt for a test‑optional approach by not submitting them and focusing on other strengths such as a high GPA, compelling essays, or strong letters of recommendation. You could also retake the ACT to try for a higher score before the application deadline, or submit SAT scores if they better reflect your abilities.

Final Recommendation

Send your ACT scores when the target schools require them or when your score is a clear asset compared to the school’s average. In test‑optional environments, weigh the cost and potential impact; if the score is competitive, sending it can be beneficial, otherwise it may be wiser to conserve resources and highlight other achievements. For high‑stakes decisions—especially scholarship eligibility—consult a college counselor or admissions advisor to ensure you’re making the most strategic choice.