ACT Scores Released!

By: Robert S. Jackson, Ed.S., Assistant Principal for Instruction

Our ACT scores have been released for 2011. The ACT is a national college admissions test that examines a student’s ability and knowledge of four key subject categories:

• English

• Mathematics

• Reading

• Science

ACT scores (along with an applicant’s high school grades, curriculum, and class rank) are the largest determinants into whether a college will accept an applicant. The ACT test is based out of 36 points, with scores ranging from 1 to 36. The average ACT score of all 1.4 million test takers nationwide remains consistent from year to year, and was just above 21.1 in 2011. Almost 30% of ACT takers score between a 19 and 23. 55% of all ACT takers score between 17 and 25. The ACT is accepted by all four year colleges and universities located across the country.

At Dutch Fork High, 47.2% (215 students) of the class of 2011 attempted the ACT at least once during their sophomore, junior, or senior years and received a composite average of 22.9. This remains higher than the district average of 22.7, state average of 19.9, and national average of 21.1.

District ACT Report

Getting a high ACT score can mean thousands of dollars in scholarships for college. For high school students, taking the ACT is one of the critical elements of the college admissions process. Receiving a High ACT score qualifies a student for many scholarship opportunities. Post Secondary Institutions give a large amount of weighting to college entrance exams, such as the ACT. For example, the University of South Carolina accepted Seventy-five percent of admitted fall 2011 freshmen who scored a 24 or higher on the ACT, and also earned a GPA of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. AT USC, admissions consideration requires excellent high-school grades and strong scores on the ACT. Higher ACT scores may offset grades or vice versa. Fifty percent of fall 2011 honors freshmen received scores between 31 and 33 on the ACT.

USC Freshman Admission Requirements

Taking the ACT is one of the most important parts of the college admissions process. Make sure you achieve a high ACT score, and you will be able to get into many of the prestigious colleges and universities across the country and qualify for many scholarships. Do not underestimate the importance of a high ACT score. Take your preparations for this admissions exam seriously while you are enrolled in the appropriate classes that will better prepare you for your college experience. Doing so, will inevitably prepare you for a lifetime of academic and personal achievements.