<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
College placeholder image

Founded in 1890 by the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael, the Dominican University of California is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the state. The private university is located at the base of San Pedro Mountain and operates a...

“…

At Dominican, class sizes are, at most, twenty students per teacher; however, if you plan to major in nursing (a competitive major), be sure to expect classes of at least fifty students. All the teachers I have encountered have been easy to get along...

” – Amber from El Sobrante, CA

Montana Technological University is Montana’s only Special Focus science and engineering university. With programs in science, technology, engineering, math, healthcare, and the trades, our students graduate career-ready with the experience top...

“…

A School for motivated Students who want an excellent education, especially in engineering Fields. Small campus and class size leading to a closer working relationship with professors and other students. Beautiful area and nice people with plenty of...

” – Steven from Butte, MT

St Andrews University is a public institution based in St. Andrews, Fife, and is the oldest university in Scotland. It is one of the most difficult universities in the UK to gain admittance to. St. Andrews University operates its own wind farm and is...

Founded in 1845, Wittenberg University is a 4-year liberal arts college in western Ohio affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The third oldest Lutheran college in the United States, Wittenberg confers bachelor’s degrees in over...

“…

I am learning things that I have never heard of at this school. The professors are friendly and always willing to help you.

” – Stephanie from Chicago, IL

Originally founded as Hawai’i Vocational College, the University of Hawai’i at Hilo is a public liberal arts college on The Big Island. UH Hilo confers bachelor’s degrees in over 60 academic majors including Hawai’ian Studies. The university also...

“…

I have learned so much at UH Hilo, not only in my classes, but also about different cultures and lifestyles. I have many friends that are exchange students from other countries who have taught me so much about the world outside of what I had known.

” – lindsay from Great Falls, MT

College placeholder image

Originally founded as a school for women called the Livingston Female Academy, the University of West Alabama is a coeducational 4-year public university. UWA is home to five colleges and divisions offering undergraduate degrees in over 90 academic...

“…

Its a beautiful campus with cheap tuition for in state students and has the perks of a more expensive University. The campus has its own movie theater, that is free for students. The dorms are beautiful and recently built, any student will be happy...

” – Janay from Montgomery, AL

College placeholder image

Saint Xavier University is a private four-year institution affiliated with the Roman Catholic church. SXU operates two campuses, one in a residential neighborhood of Chicago and a second in suburban Orland Park, Illinois. The school provides a...

“…

I like Saint Xavier because the classes are smaller and it is easy access to get in touch with the teacher. They help you if you have questions and it is more intimate where you can get that one on one needed sometimes.

” – Victoria from University Park, IL

Campbellsville University is a private institution affiliated with the Baptist Church. The CU campus is based in rural Kentucky and is home to the Clay Hill Memorial Forest which is used as an educational and research area for woodland studies...

“…

Its a great school. Its a small schools, students are able to get a lot of help from their teachers, if needed one on one time is provided as well. The school is focused on making better life's for its students.

” – Destiny from Stanford, KY

Founded in 1863, Emporia State University is a public institution with “selective” admissions that offers a flat rate tuition. The Emporia State campus houses the Johnston Geology Museum, the Peterson Planetarium, and the Richard H. Schmidt Museum of...

“…

My classes are pretty easy! Though I am learning a lot of new topics. It is like a continuation from what I learned in high school! But classes are more fun and there is a lot more down time.

” – Kristine from Tecumseh, KS

The University of Houston-Clear Lake is a 4-year institution and a campus of the University of Houston system. UH Clear Lake is home to colleges of Human Sciences, Business, Education, and Science & Engineering conferring degrees in over 80 academic...

“…

An ideal university for focused students.

” – Mali

Minot State University is a public institution located in Minot, North Dakota. Minot State is home to three colleges, of Business, of Education & Health Sciences, and of Arts & Sciences. On top of the wide variety of majors and minors provided on...

“…

The teachers challenge their students to want to learn what they are teaching. I have learned so much that I never thought I would ever learn.

” – Brooke from Plentywood, MT

Elms College is a 4-year liberal arts institution located in Chicopee, Massachusetts. Founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield, MA, Elms is a Catholic college and offers mass Monday through Thursday, as well as missions trips, programs...

“…

Elms College is best described as a friendly, tight knit family. Being a smaller college, students quickly become familiar and comfortable with their professors and fellow students. With a diverse population of students, a beautiful campus, and...

” – Rachel from Ellington, CT

Rockford University is a private, 4-year institution established on a suburban, 150-acre campus in Winnebago County, Illinois. Rockford offers over 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, minors, and concentrations through the College of Arts and...

“…

The teachers are really interested in your learning. So if you ask questions they will give you the best and detailed answer. They will be available to you at every hour so you could ask them questions about the homework or any problem you might have...

” – Erick from Rockford, IL

Georgia Southwestern State University is a 4-year public institution and part of the University System of Georgia. GSW is home to five colleges and schools conferring bachelor’s degrees in 40 academic areas of study. Additionally, Georgia...

“…

The professors are knowledgeable in their class. I am currently taking Anatomy & Physiology this semester and I am enjoying myself because the human body is interesting.

” – Azriel from Columbus, GA

College placeholder image

The University of Saint Francis is a private, Christ-centered institution located in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The campus features a number of historic facilities, such as the Brookside Mansion, which once was home to the entire college, and now hosts...

“…

The courses at the University are in a word: Fantastic. The class sizes are of course small in comparison to a larger University but its not necessarily the size that accounts for the quality of the education. The professors are the one's who make a...

” – Kyle from Monroe, IN

With campus a short distance from the Ohio River, the University of Southern Indiana is a 4-year public school in southwest Indiana. USI confers bachelor’s degrees in 87 areas of study featuring a community-focused curriculum with an emphasis on...

“…

You learn a lot about yourself. It sounds cheesy, but it's true. You discover just what you're capable of doing and how much effort you're willing to put out there for what you want.

” – Shannon from Bloomington, IN

Founded by an antislavery advocate in 1859, Adrian College is a 4-year liberal arts college in southeast Michigan. Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, Adrian awards bachelor’s degrees in 50 academic majors. In addition to classroom space...

“…

Almost every professor here at Adrian knows their stuff and is very willing to work with you to make sure you thoroughly understand the class material. They will stay after class, meet with you during or outside of posted office hours, and help you...

” – Kelly from Wellington, OH

Henderson State University is one of only 10 public schools in the state and has the alma mater “The School with a Heart.” Rated as having “selective” admissions, HSU offers the only bachelor’s degree in aviation in the state. The Reynolds...

“…

I have taken several classes, and almost every one of them I have learned a lot of new information from. There were only a couple classes that I didn't really retain much, because they seemed to be a review from the college prep classes from high...

” – Brittany from Malvern, AR

College placeholder image

Founded in 1896, Delaware Valley University is a private institution situated in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. DelVal confers undergraduate degrees in 25 majors focused on Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Business, and all academic programs incorporate...

“…

The classes offer a good level of work and challenge that makes sure you will not be forgetting any of it soon.

” – Jossette from Erie, PA

College placeholder image

Central Methodist University is a private, liberal arts institution established in Fayette, Missouri. While CMU is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, the university values diversity and diplomacy making students of all faiths welcome. CMU’s...

College placeholder image

Nicholls State University is a public institution with “selective” admissions located in the rural town of Thibodaux, Louisiana, 50 miles west of New Orleans. The institution is named after Francis Redding Tillou Nicholls, a brigadier general for the...

“…

The teachers are very friendly & willing to go out of their way to help you to the best of their ability. If you're having trouble with anything all you have to do is ask. The material covered in the classes are interesting & challenging.

” – Amanda from Raceland, LA

University of the Ozarks is a Presbyterian-affiliated, liberal arts university that was founded in 1834. Located in Clarksville, Arkansas, at the base of the Ozark Mountains, the university is the oldest in the state and offers 59 majors and minors...

“…

The campus is really small and simple. I like that about it. I went to a campus day and met so many great people!

” – Kaitlin from Lincoln, AR

College placeholder image

St. Bonaventure University is a small, private institution located in the rural town of Allegany, New York. It is associated with the Roman Catholic Church and provides a “values-based” curriculum. Journalism, accounting, and marketing are the most...

“…

I know one thing students hate are mandatory classes; but honestly these classes, at Bonaventure called CLARE courses, give you a wider range of knowledge. I'm learning things I wouldn't in my major and I find it really interesting. Granted some...

” – Heather from Penn Yan, NY

Originally founded in 1860 as St. Francis Solanus College, Quincy University is a 4-year liberal arts college in western Illinois affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. Quincy grants undergrad degrees in over 40 academic majors and provides a...

“…

Quincy University is a campus near the Mississippi river and is gorgeous. The staff are all very friendly and willing to help many people when ever they need to or are needed. Like the staff the students are all very outgoing and willing to meet new...

” – Taylor from Quincy, IL

College placeholder image

Limestone College is an independent liberal arts school located in Gaffney, South Carolina. The school has “selective” admissions and provides a curriculum based on Christian values and ethics. Traditional students attend the “Day” program, while...

“…

Professors are extremely helpful, and are available to help whenever you need them!

” – Katherine from Trenton, NC

College placeholder image

Fresno Pacific University is a private Christian institution based in Fresno, California. It is affiliated with the Mennonite Brethren Churches. All academic programs offered at FPU highlight the importance of ethics, character development, and...

“…

The student there seem to really love it, the campus is beautiful and the classes are small enough for one on one learning so you don't feel left behind. The school offers many various programs all with an underlying message of faith and God.

” – Kourinthia from Tulare, CA

Since 1808, Mount St. Mary’s University has inspired students to become ethical leaders who lead lives of significance in service to God and others. Surrounded by a peaceful mountain campus in Emmitsburg, Maryland, students are immersed in rigorous...

“…

The core curriculum along with the specific courses tied to my majors are challenging yet the professors make sure the students comprehend the information with before and after class assistance. There are tutors on campus to assist on a one-on-one...

” – Samuel from Middletown, MD

The University of Alaska Anchorage is a public institution in the city of Anchorage. The campus is surrounded by lakes, ponds, and mountains, but has a trail system that  connects the university to midtown Anchorage. Top fields of study include...

“…

The learning experience is amazing. The professors know what they are teaching and enjoy teaching it. Some of them are born and raised in Alaska so they can help you out. The other students are a big help as well.

” – Haley from Kodiak, AK

At Franklin Pierce University, you’ll find a tight-knit community of dreamers and doers who can help you achieve anything. You’ll receive a contemporary, far-reaching liberal arts education that’s financially accessible and be supported by a network...

“…

From my meeting with some of the professors and sitting in on some classes I feel that the teachers will push you to learn. This school may not be Harvard but that may mean that the teachers care a little more about how smart you are, not just how...

” – Kate from Hopedale, MA

Originally founded in Seattle, Simpson University is a Christian liberal arts institution in northern California and the region’s only Christian university. Affiliated with the Christian and Missionary Alliance, Simpson grants undergrad degrees in 24...

“…

Though the teachers may not be Nobel Prize winners, all the teachers are still very knowledgeable; my teacher, whom I have for my political science classes, used to be an attorney. My other professors, whether for General Ed or for my major (Social...

” – Anonymous

Governors State University is a public, 4-year institution established south of Chicago in University Park, Illinois. GSU offers programs of study ranging from certificates in Digital Forensics to doctoral degrees in Occupational Therapy. The college...

“…

I enjoy how small the classes are! Being in a class with 25 or less people is better than sitting in a class of 250+. Teachers know your name and really make themselves available to help when you need it. They give you their office hours and their...

” – Briana from Richton Park, IL

Situated on the banks of Little Riley Creek, Bluffton University is a liberal arts college founded by the Mennonite Church in northwest Ohio. Bluffton offers undergraduate degrees in over 85 academic areas of study. As part of the university’s...

“…

Bluffton is the most friendly campus that I visited during my college search. Community is an important value and will make you feel at home. Bluffton is the right choice if you want a good home away from home.

” – Tessa from Middlebury, IN

Malone University is a private, Christian, liberal arts institution located in Canton, OH. Founded in 1892, Malone has grown to offer 91 undergraduate and 12 graduate programs, some of which are available online. Standing out from the 50-plus majors...

“…

The courses are invigorating and interactive. It seems like the teachers are enjoying you and so you enjoy being there. Classes are tough, but if your heart is in the right place, you get a lot out of classes. It's not like high school where subjects...

” – Lillian from Martinsville, VA

Founded in 1834, Franklin College is a private liberal arts and sciences college located in Franklin, Indiana, about 20 miles from downtown Indianapolis. Franklin's 207-acre campus features 50 majors to choose from that uphold the FC common set of...

“…

Franklin College is providing me with an amazing experience. The professors have proven to want to help me be better at what I want to do in my career. I have zero complaints about the college.

” – Timothy from Camby, IN

Parkland College is a two-year community college based in Champaign, Illinois, that confers associate’s degrees and workforce certificates. Serving 54 communities across central Illinois, Parkland offers over 100 degree and certificate programs and a...

“…

Parkland is a really great way to get accustomed to the college life! From my personal experience thus far, the professors truly care about their students and are passionate about the subjects they teach. They are there to help and answer any...

” – Lauren from Champaign, IL

Alma College is a private liberal arts institution affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. It is a residential college based in Alma, Michigan, in the state’s Lower Peninsula. Alma also operates an ecological research area in Vestaburg, which houses...

“…

The classes here are VERY intense. Be prepared to study A LOT. But also, be prepared to be intelligent and actually have something knowledgeable to contribute to conversations. I like being able to talk about something meaningful with my parents now...

” – Kristin from Charlotte, MI

Originally founded as a women’s college by the Sisters of Mercy, Georgian Court University is a coeducational Catholic liberal arts university in southern New Jersey. GCU hosts colleges of Nursing, Business, Education, and Arts & Sciences conferring...

“…

i would rate georgian court university a 9 on a scale of 10 being the best. when i had transferred to gcu, i was treated with the up-most respect and my needs were accommodated. having been at gcu only two months, my experience here has been amazing...

” – Christina from Jackson, NJ

Chartered in 1845, the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor is a Christian school in central Texas and the state’s oldest continuously operating college. UMHB grants bachelor’s degrees in 51 academic programs and all first year students are enrolled in a...

“…

Besides certain classees that EVERYONE takes, the class size is very small, even at the Freshman level. So you will get individualized attention if you need it. The University finds the best professors, every class I have had, the professor has...

” – Ray from Belton, TX

Marian University is a private Catholic institution located in Indianapolis, Indiana. The curriculum at Marian University combines classroom theory with practical work experience. The school is home to a wetland and lowland forest, the Indy Cycloplex...

“…

Marian is a great place where all the professors make you feel wanted. You're definitely not just a number at this University.

” – Meredith from Indianapolis, IN

Chestnut Hill College is a coeducational college with “selective” admissions. Founded in 1924 by the Sisters of St. Joseph, the Institute for Forgiveness & Reconciliation is an homage towards their mission of “unity and love for all without...

“…

Chestnut Hill College is a place where students are very close to students, the class size average is 20-25 students per class. The teachers are very available and that can help the students to imporve their skill by getting assistance from teachers...

” – Luis from Burbank, CA

Founded in 1890, Keuka College is a liberal arts school based in Keuka Park, New York. The Field Period at Keuka College is a required program chosen by the student that explores their interests through an internship, cultural experience, artistic...

“…

Keuka College offers great diversity because of there multicultural affairs office and activities. Also, due to their programs outreaching to Chinese students, there is no limit to the amount of ne ideas and cultures you can learn.

” – Devin from Orchard Park, NY

College placeholder image

Northwood University is a private, 4-year institution established in Midland, Michigan. The college maintains a number of regional education facilities in Michigan, Kentucky, Indiana, Texas, California, and online in order for students to complete...

“…

When I visited they said the professors had a one year contract and if they weren't performing well that they were gone. The school also has many varying options of degrees and classes to take that cover a wide variety of interests.

” – Christian from Zeeland, MI

St. John Fisher College is an independent instution located in Pittsford, NY, that run on the Catholic tradition. St. John's 164-acres of campus house five colleges, has both a Math and Writing Center, and is within 7 miles of Rochester. The "College...

“…

As an upcoming senior, I've realized just how much I've learned in the past few years. Knowledge goes beyond the classroom though and I was able to attend Macquarie University in Australia during my junior year. All my financial aid transferred which...

” – Josue from Rochester, NY

Founded in 1839, Framingham State University is a public institution based in Framingham, Massachusetts. Framingham operates the Center for Social Research, the Christa Corrigan McAuliffe Center for Education and Teaching Excellence, and the John C...

“…

The professors here are great. They are extremely willing to help you out if you ever need help. They want you to succeed, and they will do anything they can if you just ask.

” – Lauren from Wrentham, MA

College placeholder image

Young Harris College is a private liberal arts school situated in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. It is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. All undergraduate students must complete a core curriculum that includes public speaking and...

“…

Young Harris is a top of the notch learning school. With small class sizes professors are ablet to get to know the students on individual basis and help them with their needs. They have excellent tutoring programs and the best academic services.

” – Hannah from Hiram, GA

College placeholder image

La Sierra University is a private nonprofit liberal arts college based in Riverside, California. It is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. LSU is a member of the American Public Gardens Association and its campus is a designated...

“…

I learned more at this school then any other I have attended. It is a great small school and I loved it!

” – Nikki from Perris, CA

College placeholder image

Auburn University at Montgomery is a public institution based in Montgomery, Alabama. It is a designated military-friend School and has a “selective” admissions process. AUM has one of the largest study abroad programs in the state and takes students...

“…

Even though AUM isn't one the most well known colleges, I have to say that this is very good school to attend to further your education as well as begin it. AUM has some of the best accredited professors who are very educated in their particular...

” – Shannon from Tyler, AL

College placeholder image

Fitchburg State University is a public Massachusetts institution founded in 1894. It has a “selective” admissions process and provides a liberal arts and sciences curriculum integrated with professional programs. The most popular majors are exercise...

“…

Classes are small and the professors are nice and really care about your success!

” – Nicole from Salisbury, MA

Belmont Abbey College is a private liberal arts institution based in Belmont, North Carolina. It is affiliated with the Order of Saint Benedict and the Roman Catholic Church. The college houses the Saint Joseph Adoration Chapel which is open 24 hours...

“…

Here at Belmont Abbey College the learning experience is quiet different then what I expected. Since, I attending public high school I was used to the teachers just being teachers. What I mean is that I never expected to be taught by an actual monk...

” – Stephanie from Huntersville, NC

West Liberty University is a public, 4-year institution established in the state of West Virginia. WLU offers a number of undergraduate and graduate degree programs for many different fields of study, such as Creative Art Therapy and Museum Education...

“…

an outstanding experience. best place to learn about art. the best school for me.

” – Ashley from Williamstown, WV