<span>22 ACT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 22 ACT Score</span>

22 ACT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 22 ACT Score

The ACT is a standardized test that measures your academic proficiency in four areas of study: English, Reading, Science, and Mathematics. There is also an optional Writing portion students can take, if they would like, however most colleges don’t require it outside of notable writing and journalism schools. 

The ACT is made up of 215 questions, scored on a scale between 1 and 36, and has a time limit of 2 hours and 55 minutes. The writing portion adds an additional 40 minutes. 

 

Is a 22 ACT Score (63rd Percentile) Good?

When it comes to looking at whether a score is “good” or “not-so-good,” the focus is on whether a score makes you eligible to apply to a wide variety of schools, and also makes you competitive. A 22 ACT accomplishes this task — the national average score is just a hair under 21, making 22 better than average!

Looking at this from another angle, a score of 22 places you in the 63rd percentile, meaning that you scored higher than 63% of all test takers. At this level, scores begin to become competitive for admission to mildly selective institutions. Since one of the main purposes for taking the ACT is to improve your college acceptance odds, a 22 can be helpful in accomplishing that goal.

 

What Colleges Can I Get Into with an ACT Score of 22?

Many colleges and universities are happy to review applicants with an ACT score of 22. While no standardized test score guarantees admission, all of the schools listed below have a history of admitting students with a 22 ACT that complements good academic performance.

 

Should I Retake the ACT with a 22 Score?

A 22 is a decent score and it isn’t going to hinder your college application unless you’re applying to selective or very selective institutions. If none of those are on your radar, the primary reason to consider retaking the ACT would be to increase your odds of receiving merit aid. 

If you’re a junior, you typically have some time to take it again if you want to. Your score comes with a subject-by-subject breakdown of how you did in each section of the exam: Science, English, Reading, and Mathematics. Take a look at the subjects that need improvement and concentrate your studies in those areas. Other methods to improve include picking up a book of practice ACT exams or downloading practice tests, as well as signing up for a test prep class through your high school or district. Be sure to time yourself to get used to testing conditions on the day of the retake.

As for seniors, do research to determine the ACT range for accepted students at a given college or university. If the college you want to attend has a history of admitting students with a 22 on the ACT, make sure that the other parts of your application are as strong as possible. Devote enough study time to all classes to ensure that your GPA is up to par. You should also consult with your college counselor as you write your essay to make it effective and persuasive. 

If you ultimately decide you want to retake it, there are typically dates throughout late summer and the fall semester that would get you results in time. Whatever you decide to do, though, remember that your ACT score is just a component of your application.

 

22 ACT to SAT Equivalent

A 22 SAT score is equivalent to an 1100 to 1120 on the SAT.  However, the tests do have some differences, including in time management skills and content, so what you earn on what test may not directly translate to what you earn on the other. 

Because of these differences, you may find that one test suits your testing style better than the other. If you feel like you’re struggling on the ACT or should be doing better, it may be worthwhile to take a practice SAT and see what score you earn. 

 

Scholarships for a 22 ACT Score

When it comes to earning scholarships for merit (because of your ACT or SAT score, or GPA), a 22 ACT score may make you applicable for some merit-based scholarships. Keep in mind that there are plenty of other types of scholarships, including ones for life circumstances, location, and passions! Get started applying today so you can offset the cost tuition. 

 

View all scholarships

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 22 a good ACT score?

A 22 ACT score is above the national average score of 21, making you eligible to apply as a good candidate to many colleges. 

 

What colleges can I get into with a 22 ACT score?

You can apply to any number of schools, including the following, which would fall under your Target institutions: Washington State University, Texas State University, and Portland State University.   

 

What percentile is a 22 ACT score?

A 22 ACT score puts you at the 63rd percentile, meaning you scored higher than 63% of all test takers. 

 

What is the SAT equivalent of a 22 ACT score?

A 22 ACT score is equivalent to a 1100 to 1120 SAT score. There are some differences between the two tests, so what you earn on one may not be what you earn on the other, but this is a good comparison. 

 

What scholarships can you get with a 22 ACT score?

When it comes to earning scholarships for things like your GPA or for your ACT or SAT score, it’s usually referred to as merit scholarships or merit aid. A 22 may make you eligible for some merit aid options, but don’t forget that there are other types of scholarships, too, including ones for location, life circumstances, and passions!

 

View all scholarships

 

Advanced Search

Founded in 1890, Washington State University is the state's first land-grant university. Washington State University offers more than 200 fields of study, including 96 undergraduate majors, 86 minors, and more than 140 graduate and professional...

“…

The Professors at WSU are thorough in their teaching but sometimes lack the patience for slower students. The curriculum while tough is also very educational and I have found it to be rather enjoyable.

” – John from Clarkston, WA

Originally founded as a teachers college, Central Michigan University has grown to become a 4-year public research institution. CMU encompasses eight colleges offering bachelor’s degrees in over 200 academic programs. In addition, CMU is home to...

“…

Having only been at Central Michigan University for a year, I feel like I have learned so much. Not only are students taught so much in the classroom, they learn through volunteering and getting involved on campus.

” – Samantha from White Cloud, MI

Founded in 1899, Texas State University is a 4-year public school in south Texas and the largest campus in the TSU system. TSU hosts nine colleges conferring undergraduate degrees in 98 academic majors. Every year, Texas State unveils a Common...

“…

I received 42 credit hours from IB and AP classes in high school and my first semester courses were just basically review classes for me. However, since I have all of my core classes out of the way, I can take Upperclassmen and Honors courses for my...

” – Laura from Garland, TX

The University of Texas at San Antonio is a 4-year public research institution and the largest university in the San Antonio region. UTSA encompasses nine colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees as well as an Honors College. Between...

“…

What is there to learn about U.T.S.A. ? For starters, how great the college is! I love the size of the college, not so big but then again not so small. I learned that U.T.S.A. offers a variety of degrees from the Arts to Engineering majors. I have...

” – Beatriz from Austin, TX

California State University-Fullerton is a 4-year public research institution in Orange County and a campus of the Cal State system. Cal State Fullerton has the largest student body out of any California State University school and has been...

“…

The classes at Cal State University, Fullerton are fairly easy. I had expected college to be a lot more difficult, but CSUF has proved otherwise. Although the classes are not difficult, they have allowed me to grow intellectually. The professors...

” – Janet

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis is the result of a merger between Indiana University and Purdue University and offers degrees from both institutions. IUPUI hosts 17 schools granting degrees in over 350 areas of study. Additionally...

“…

I am learning so much from being at IUPUI. Learning new things from my major as well as new ways do do things from subjects I have already taken in high school. Aside from the classroom learning, I have learned so much about others background since...

” – Ian from Gary, IN

Originally founded as a small branch college, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas is a 4-year public university and an Hispanic-Serving and Minority-Serving institution. UNLV encompasses 16 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in...

“…

The classes offer an incredible amount of insight and new information. Classes tend to start off a little slow in my experience, but when they did get going they got going quickly and I learned a lot in short amounts of time.

In addition, classes...

” – Adam from Las Vegas, NV

Originally founded to educate returning World War II veterans, Portland State University is a 4-year public institution in the heart of Portland. The PSU campus encompasses eight colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 120...

“…

When it comes to how much you learn I believe that it is up to you to take classes that are interesting and a little bit challenging, because the classes that are easy tend to get boring and not teach you as much.

” – Brittany from Tigard, OR

San Jose State University is the oldest public university on the west coast, and is the founding campus of the 23-campus California State University System. Located on 154 acres in downtown San Jose, SJSU offers more than 145 areas of study with an...

“…

I have taken English 1A, Latino Identity (psycology), Remedial Math, and Intro to Sociology. English 1A is the GE English class required for undergrad students. My teacher, Mr. Mujal, was amazing. It was a small class of 25, and he made sure everyone...

” – Tatiana from San Francisco, CA

Northern Arizona University is a four-year public research institution in Flagstaff, Arizona, which is consistently named among the nation’s best college towns. A variety of award-winning student resources and support are available to all students...

“…

The teachers that I have had for the most part have been amazing. Use upperclassman and online prof. grading sites as a resource though, because there are a few snoozers out here. If you can catch the right professor at this school, they can change...

” – Christian from Las Vegas, NV

East Carolina University is located in Greenville, NC, and is comprised of 13 colleges. This public research university offers 84 bachelor's and 71 master's degrees, and claims a spot as the state leader in distance educated by providing 90 online...

“…

Out of state tuition is gruesome in this economy! But there is truly no where I'd rather be than an ECU pirate!

” – Purple and Gold, Greenville NC

Originally founded as a teacher training college, San Francisco State University is a 4-year public institution and a Bay Area-based campus of the California State University System. SF State offers bachelor’s degrees in 77 fields of study and...

“…

I have enjoyed all but one teacher in my first year here at SF State. My teachers are committed to giving me the best education they can and that's a lot to ask for from a state school.

” – Liza from Bolinas, CA

Established in 1837 and named for former Chief Justice John Marshall, Marshall University is a 4-year public research institution in southwestern West Virginia. Marshall is home to seven undergraduate colleges conferring bachelor’s degrees in 57...

“…

You learn as much as you put into it.

” – Erin from Beckley, WV

Radford University is a comprehensive public university of 7,718 students that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs. The University offers 76 bachelor’s degree programs in 47 disciplines, two...

“…

Professors are willing and able to help students during his or her specificed office hours. The stronger your will to learn, the more you will gain from each course.

” – Taylor from Blacksburg, VA

Formed by the merger of Clark College and Atlanta University, Clark Atlanta University is an Historically Black College and University affiliated with the United Methodist Church in Atlanta. CAU is home to colleges of Business Administration...

“…

try to go to all your classes and get to know the professors because they can really help you out if you're having trouble.

” – Tia from Atlanta, GA

Montclair State University is a 4-year public institution in northern New Jersey and the second largest university in the state. Montclair State is home to 11 colleges and schools conferring over 300 undergraduate and graduate degrees and the...

“…

Montclair State University's student to faculty ratio is 17 to 1, and class size is not large. The environment is just right for learning, and it is put together for your academic success.

” – Elisha from Blackwood, NJ

California State University-Fresno is a 4-year public school and the second largest university in the Cal State system. Fresno State encompasses eight colleges and schools offering undergraduate degrees. In addition, Fresno State has been designated...

“…

Even when taking my general ed. classes, I've learned more than what I've expected. The teachers that I've had this semester all seem thrilled about teaching and hearing student responses.

” – Zachary from Fresno, CA

Originally founded as the Roanoke Classical Seminary, Manchester University is a liberal arts university in northeast Indiana affiliated with the Church of the Brethren. Manchester is home to colleges of Arts & Humanities, Health Sciences, Business...

“…

From the very first class of the semester, the learning started. Professors don't waste class time; they teach to you what needs to be learned. You may think going into a familiar class that it'll be an easy breeze; but, the professors always find a...

” – unanimous

Originally founded as a teacher’s college, Ball State University is a public institution in eastern Indiana. Ball State is home to seven colleges conferring undergraduate degrees in more than 120 academic majors. Throughout the year, Ball State...

“…

The staff and employees of the campus are both kind and knowledgeable of their areas. The presentations I have seen from professors during orientation demonstrates how varied they are and creative in their ways of instruction.

” – Jared from Muncie, IN

Founded in 1849 as a teachers college, Eastern Michigan University is now a 4-year public school in Ypsilanti, MI. EMU is home to five colleges offering bachelor’s degrees in over 200 academic majors and minors. In addition to classroom space, EMU...

“…

Eastern has such a wide variety of majors and minors. Professors are personable, but still don't make it easy. You have to work for your grades.

” – Brittaney from Dexter, MI

Old Dominion University is a 4-year public institution in Norfolk and a doctoral high research activity university. ODU hosts colleges of Arts & Letters, Business, Sciences, Education, Engineering, and Health Sciences as well as an Honors College...

“…

Old Dominion Professors are very professional and informative when it comes to detailed lectures & assignments.

” – Efrem from Chantilly, VA

Part of the University of Wisconsin system, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is a 4-year public school and the largest university in Milwaukee. UWM confers degrees in over 195 academic programs and the university is one of two doctoral-degree...

“…

I have learned so much so far at UWM. My art classes are fantastic! The instructors are very knowledgeable in their fields, and push creativity and new thoughts into my head effortlessly. I can't wait to go back!

” – Chelsea from Bristol, WI

Situated near the Great Smoky Mountains, Western Carolina University is a public school in the University of North Carolina system with three campus locations. WCU features six colleges granting bachelor’s degrees encompassing over 120 majors, minors...

“…

The class size average is about 30 students which is good for student-professor relationships. You are able to get to know your professor in a setting not much different from high school. Professors strive to make time for your questions and want to...

” – Hannah from Clemmons, NC

Northern Illinois University is a selective public university with a focus on research. The DeKalb campus is home to seven colleges with 46 schools and departments, and students can take advantage of regional centers in Chicago, Naperville, Rockford...

“…

Some of the classes are pretty difficult and take a lot of studying, but this is a good thing. I have learned more from my Engineering class than in any other class I taken my entire life. The class sizes vary. I have had some classes with only 15...

” – Erik from Hanover Park, IL

With campus along the shores of Puget Sound, The Evergreen State College is a public liberal arts institution in Washington’s state capital of Olympia. Evergreen offers Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees without formal majors and...

“…

The Evergreen State College has a variety of fun, unique, and engaging classes. As a freshman, I have only enrolled in one course for the entire year. This class, however, has really opened my eyes to many possibilities and I have learned more in a...

Founded in 2005, the University of California-Merced is a 4-year public research institution in northern California and the first American research university opened in the 21st century. UC Merced is home to colleges of Social Sciences, Engineering...

“…

Obviously, just like any other school, if you put your mind to it, study, and do the work, you'll learn. Putting in effort to what you want to accomplish is the key. I am currently a freshman and am about to finish my 1st semester here. I'm taking...

” – Gabriel from Hercules, CA

Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, Southwestern College is a private school in southern Kansas. Southwestern confers bachelor’s degrees in 24 fields of study. As part of its technological initiative, Southwestern issues a laptop to every...

“…

This school has several faculty members who are here for the soul purpose of helping your get your desired degree. My favorite thing about these staff members is that even if one person can't help you, then you always have another staff member to...

” – Cody from Wamego, KS

Originally founded as a junior college, Monmouth University is a 4-year private school near the Jersey shore. Monmouth grants bachelor’s degrees in over 40 academic majors and also provides an opportunity for students to earn an undergrad and...

“…

The classes here are small. All of your classes will never reach 40, so forget about large lecture halls. I love the classes; because of the small class size, you get to learn much more and have a great relationship with your professor. Your...

” – Joanna from Staten Island, NY

The University of West Georgia is a public, 4-year, R3 doctoral research university. UWG offers over 85 academic programs, and is home to an Honors College. UWG is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and...

“…

There are always those easy classes, but for the ones that aren't so easy--learn how to use your time wisely.

” – Stephanie from Temple, GA

Founded in 1906 as a land-grant college, Georgia Southern University is a public research institution and part of the University System of Georgia. GSU’s main campus at Statesboro is situation on 900 acres of land and offers more than 50...

“…

I've only talk to a few professors, but i have already learned a lot.

” – Ivory from Union City, GA

With campus a short walk from the Wabash River, Indiana State University is a 4-year public institution in western Indiana. ISU confers bachelor’s degrees in over 100 academic majors and makes over 70 degree-granting programs available entirely...

“…

Within just my first year at ISU, I gained the skills I need to succeed. My professors, teacher assistants, college advisor and employer have provided my with the knowledge required inside and out of the classroom. The teaching staff was extremely...

” – Nursing Student

Founded in 1872, the University of Toledo is a public research institution in northwest Ohio and a member of the state university system of Ohio. Toledo is home to 13 colleges and schools conferring over 300 undergrad and graduate degrees. For...

“…

The University of Toledo is an excellent school. In the classes that I am taking right now, I am learning a lot. I feel like by the time I graduate, I will have received an excellent education.

” – Sarah from Sagamore Hills, OH

Originally conceived as a school of accounting and secretarial science, Southern New Hampshire University has grown to become a 4-year private university. SNHU confers bachelor’s degrees in more than 150 academic majors available both on campus and...

“…

Easy to apply and admissions counselors are with you every step of the way. The online class formats are self-explanatory, and you quickly learn the ins and outs. You academic adviser is constantly available and takes the initiative in knowing how...

” – Katty from Reno, NV

College placeholder image

Wesleyan College is a private, 4-year, women’s institution. Founded in 1836, Wesleyan was the first college in the world chartered to grant degrees to woman, and its 200-acre, wooded campus has since been added to the National Register of Historic...

“…

Each class offers its own, unique challenge for students. With a 10 to 1 student to professor ratio, the discussions are dynamic and intellectually stimulating. Faculty offer the best quality of education possible, and are determined to see you...

” – Francesca from Macon, GA

With campus a short drive from the Atlantic Ocean, Coastal Carolina University is a 4-year public liberal arts institution in South Carolina. CCU confers bachelor’s degrees in 74 academic areas of study. In addition to the academic facilities on its...

“…

Every class I walk out of, I feel that I have learned something new each day. Whether it be how to communicate in groups effectively to what began the civil war, I feel more knowledgeable.

” – Caroline

Ferris State University is a 4-year public university in west central Michigan. Ferris State is home to eight colleges conferring over 190 undergraduate degrees as well as an honors program. For students who wish to learn in a foreign culture, Ferris...

“…

I am currently enrolled at Kendall (Ferris affiliate) and I find that the art studio and elective classes are very thorough and challenging. The professors are enjoyable, the atmosphere is non-competitive and the student life enjoyable and fun...

” – Samantha from Grand Rapids, MI

Founded as a normal college for women, Valdosta State University is a public institution in southern Georgia and part of the University System of Georgia. Valdosta State confers degrees in over 100 majors, minors, and certificates. Additionally, VSU...

“…

VSU is a great institute to further your education. I must say that I am learning a lot. My teachers are great and if I need further assistance they are willing to meet with me during office hours, or e-mail. If this is not enough, VSU has a tutoring...

” – Marcel Smith

Salisbury University is a 4-year public institution on Maryland’s eastern shore and a member of the University System of Maryland. Salisbury is home to colleges of Education, Business, Science, Liberal Arts, and Health conferring undergraduate...

“…

This is a beautiful, academically challenging school. The amenities offered are great, and almost all of the dorms are nice. It is situated only 30 minutes from ocean city, but aside from that, there isn't much to do around here.

” – Jessica from Laurel, MD

Founded in 1853 by a local Presbyterian congregation, Westminster College is a 4-year liberal arts college in central Missouri. Westminster grants undergraduate degrees in 33 academic majors and 41 minors. As the site of Winston Churchill’s famous...

“…

I am taking so many amazing classes here at Westminster!! Each class is really interesting. For example, I am taking psychology as a social science (which I was incredibly not excited for) but I am absolutely loving it!!! My professor makes it so...

” – Siri from Hibbing, MN

Founded by a Baptist minister in 1887, Campbell University is a 4-year Christian institution in central North Carolina. Campbell encompasses eight colleges and schools offering undergraduate degrees in over 100 majors, concentrations, and tracks. As...

“…

There is a whole lot of nothing to do around Buies Creek, so learning is the next best thing... :)

” – Josh from Eastover, NC

Heidelberg University is a private, liberal arts institution established in Tiffin, Ohio. Students graduating from Heidelberg are all given the option to enroll in the school’s Plus One Advantage program, which registers students in a 1-year Master...

“…

I attend Heidelberg University's music program. I've at least doubled my knowledge about music, and I've only been here a semester! You will definitely learn, and the work is challenging but not difficult. I really think you will enjoy going here.

” – Katelyn from Coshocton, OH

The University of Northern Colorado is a public research institution with a main campus situated in Greeley, a municipality between the Rocky Mountains and High Plains, with three satellite centers in Colorado Springs, Denver, and Loveland. UNC...

“…

I had no idea I could cram so much information into my head. I find myself doing everyday activities and understanding so much more about them that I did before. Every time I clean my fish tank, I wonder how many different molecules are in the water...

” – Brittany from Greeley, CO

The University of North Florida is a 4-year public institution in Jacksonville and a member of the State University System of Florida. UNF is home to five colleges of Health, Business, Arts, Computing, and Education hosting degree-granting programs...

“…

Take advantage of professor's office hours!! They are more than willing to sit down with you!

” – Carly from Florida

Founded in 1889, Saint Leo University is a top rated, private university located in Tampa Bay, Florida. We offer our students an ideal college experience - from our leading-edge academics with over 50 programs (including unique accelerated 3 + 1...

“…

I AM LEARNING A LOT AT ST LEO AND THE PROFESSORS ARE REALLY HELPFUL AND WANT YOU TO SUCEED

” – JOSEPH from ORLANDO, FL

Located near old Route 66 in Albuquerque, the University of New Mexico is New Mexico’s flagship public university. UNM is home to 12 colleges conferring bachelor’s degrees in 94 academic programs and its Health Sciences Center is New Mexico’s largest...

“…

The school is a good place to go and get your degree. I am studying Business. The classes are harder for this major than other majors. There is a lot of writing and reading. However, the teachers are extremely nice, and they are very helpful. They do...

” – Stacy from Los Alamos, NM

Founded by the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, Marymount University is a Roman Catholic institution in northern Virginia and the first Catholic college in the state. Marymount encompasses schools of Arts & Humanities, Business, and Sciences...

“…

At Marymount University, you will learn a lot, not only the needed necessities for your intended majors, but just all around information that is vitally important. Right now i am a freshman in the 2009/ 2010 school year, and I am a Fashion Design...

” – Tynisha from Lorton, VA

Originally founded in 1891 as the Washington State Normal School, Central Washington University is a 4-year public institution. Central Washington is home to six colleges and schools offering undergraduate degrees in over 135 academic majors as well...

“…

The profs here are truly amazing and very understandable. They are very approachable and ready to help you study and learn. Also a wide variety of classes and foriegn languages you can choose from so make sure to keep an open mind!

” – Katherina from Tacoma, WA

Colorado Mesa University is located in Grand Junction, Colorado on the beautiful Western Slope of the state. At CMU, the student is the hero of the story. The university exists to guide students to broaden their horizons and reach their goals. CMU...

“…

In my opinion, the professors at Mesa do a good job of cutting straight to the core of a subject and really making sure that their students understand what is being taught. They talk to you, rather than at you when they lecture so everything is more...

” – Tara from Fruita, CO

Western is the perfect size university, with physical resources such as crime labs, nursing simulation areas, an Emergency Operations Center, and performance spaces that will be enhanced by our new $120 million Center for the Performing Arts.

And we...

“…

There are a varity of subjects on campus apply to the different types of people here on campus

” – Stephenie from Chillicothe, IL

Tuskegee University is a 4-year private school and an Historically Black College and University in east Alabama. Tuskegee offers bachelor’s degrees in over 65 academic majors and is the only HBCU to house a fully-accredited College of Veterinary...

“…

I'm a freshman at Tuskegee and I just finished my 1st semester. As an Animal Poultry and Veterinary Science Major I have learned so much more than I expected. I was expecting to only become a Vet with my major but our APSC 100 class taught me to open...

” – A. Smith