<span>28 ACT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 28 ACT Score</span>

28 ACT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 28 ACT Score

The ACT is a college entrance exam used during the admissions process to measure proficiency in Math, Science, English, and Reading. Taking 2 hours and 55 to complete, the ACT is composed of 215 questions, along with an optional Writing portion, and is graded on a scale of 1 to 36. The national average ACT score is 20.8. 

 

Is a 28 ACT Score (88th Percentile) Good?

A score of 28 places you in approximately the 88th percentile of all high school students. With a 28, you’re an extremely competitive candidate at a majority of schools, as well as able to consider applying to more selective institutions as well. Since one of the purposes of taking the ACT is to generate a large number of college options to choose from, a score of 28 accomplishes this goal.

Looking at this from that percentage angle, an ACT score of 28 puts you at the 88th percentile — that means you scored higher than 88% of all test takers, of which there are nearly 2 million. All that considered, a 28 is definitely a good score! Congratulations! 

 

What Colleges Can I Get Into with an ACT Score of 28?

With an ACT score as high as 28, you’re a competitive candidate at a majority of institutions and we’ve put together a sample list of them below. Be aware that a standardized test score alone is not a guarantee of acceptance, but all of these institutions have a history of admitting students who earn a 28 on the ACT.

 

Should I Retake the ACT with a 28 Score?

There’s no pressure to retake the ACT with a score of 28. The one primary reason a student would retake the ACT at this juncture would be if their ideal school wants a point or two higher. Otherwise, you’re eligible for merit aid and are competitive at a wide variety of schools, so retaking it isn’t necessary.

If you’re a junior and your ACT score is in the 90th percentile for the colleges and universities you’re interested in, concentrate on doing as well as possible in all classes during your remaining time in high school. Devote more study time to any courses that feel especially difficult to ensure that your GPA remains at a good level. Most colleges weigh ACT scores on an equal basis with GPA so it’s important to put in the work and finish high school strong.

Several more selective colleges use an ACT score of 30 as an approximate benchmark for admission, but don’t let that deter you from applying. Just be sure to also apply to Likely and Target colleges, too. If you opt to retake the ACT to improve your odds, you have a good amount of time to do so before college application season. Review the breakdown of your current score, study up on sections that weren’t your best, and consider getting a tutor to help you reach your goal score.

For seniors, concentrate on the rest of your application to ensure that it’s as marketable as an ACT score of 28. Pay particular attention to the personal essay and list of after school activities. Have your college counselor look over your essay and offer suggestions and critique. For more feedback, show it to a trusted teacher or mentor. Furthermore, contact any teachers who’ve impacted your high school career and ask them to write letters of recommendation. Try to ask your favorite teachers since the more personalized the letter gets, the more help it will be in getting into college.

 

28 ACT to SAT Equivalent

A 28 SAT score is equivalent to earning a 1310-1340 on the SAT. There are a few key differences between these two tests, so what you score on one may not be what you score on the other, but this is a good tool for comparison. 

 

Scholarships for a 28 ACT Score

Earning a 28 ACT score makes you eligible for merit aid both from your potential institution and from third-party scholarship providers. Start applying for scholarships today — and not only ones for merit, either. 

Find scholarships based on your location, life circumstances, extracurriculars, future major, and so much more on our extensive scholarship database. College comes with a variety of costs outside of tuition and having a nest egg will help offset the extra dollar signs! 

 

View all scholarships

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 28 a good ACT score?

A 28 ACT score makes you eligible to apply at a vast majority of schools as a competitive candidate, making it a good score. It also makes you eligible for a good amount of merit aid, which is definitely good! 

 

What colleges can I get into with a 28 ACT score?

With a 28 ACT score, you’re eligible to apply at more selective institutions as Target schools, including Pennsylvania State University, Texas A&M University-College Station, and Purdue University. Check out all of your options and make sure the rest of your college application just as impressive as your ACT score! 

 

What percentile is a 28 ACT score?

A 28 ACT score puts you at the 88th percentile, meaning you scored higher than 88% of all test takers. 

 

What is the SAT equivalent of a 28 ACT score?

A 28 ACT score is equivalent to earning a 1310 to 1340 on the SAT

 

What scholarships can you get with a 28 ACT score?

A 28 ACT score makes you eligible for merit scholarships, as well as merit aid from potential colleges and universities. Make sure to also apply for scholarships based on your location, extracurriculars, life circumstances, passions, future majors, and more! 

 

View all scholarships

 

Advanced Search

With campus overlooking the Potomac River, Shepherd University is a 4-year public liberal arts college in the Shenandoah Valley region of West Virginia. Shepherd confers bachelor’s degrees in over 90 academic majors and minors. During every school...

“…

I am an art major, and I have some amazing teachers who really know their stuff. I am learning so much here. I am only a freshmen but I feel that when I get out of school I will really know my stuff and be ready to be in the real world and be on my...

” – Amanda from Manassas, VA

Farmingdale State College is a public institution offering a technology-focused education. It is part of the State University of New York system and has a “selective” admissions process. It is home to several research centers, including the Solar...

“…

Farmingdale is a great school. There are so many activities on campus and clubs to join. Farmingdale was the best decision I've made.

” – Rachael from Centereach, NY

Named for Saint Robert Bellarmine, Bellarmine University is a Catholic liberal arts college in Louisville. With a campus set amongst three hills in the Highlands region, Bellarmine grants undergrad degrees in 60 academic majors and encourages...

“…

All of the classes I took were interesting and interactive. I really felt like the teachers cared about our education and were experts in the knowledge of the classes they took. They were always available and ready to answer questions in the...

” – Amber from Fort Knox, KY

Founded in 1830, Capital University is a liberal arts institution and one of the largest Lutheran universities in the US. The CU Chapel Choir is recognized for performing at Carnegie Hall, in different parts of the world, and for leading the annual...

“…

Ever since coming here I have been taught a huge amount. Not just from the faculty, but from the students as well. This college isn't just about learning from the teachers. You learn from your peers and they learn from you. It is an amazing thing...

” – Jordan from Frankfort, OH

College placeholder image

King University is a Presbyterian-affiliated and doctoral-level university that was founded in 1867 as King College. The main 135-acre campus centers around “The Oval,” a mall where all buildings intersect. The campus houses the Burke Observatory and...

“…

At King College the professors care a lot about each student as an individual and strive beyond their job requirements to make sure each student understands the subject at hand.

” – Emilii from Bristol, TN

Point Park University has been an anchor in Downtown Pittsburgh for more than 90 years. The University’s official founding date is February 6, 1933 when the Finkelhor family established the Business Training College. In 1960 we transitioned to Point...

“…

As a student enrolled in the Cinema & Digital Arts major I feel as though I have learned a tremendous amount about film making. The four year program is set up in a very structured manner that encompasses full learning potential. Point Park is also...

” – Joseph from Cochranton, PA

Founded in 1830, the University of North Alabama is a public institution of higher learning based in Florence, AL. UNA is home to an outdoor Memorial Amphitheater and the only 4-year culinary program in the state. Popular majors include nursing...

“…

I am learning a great deal at the University of North Alabama. The instructors seem to genuinely care about your success in the classroom. I enjoy the fact that they take the extra time needed to make sure each student is reaching their full...

” – Madison from Slocomb, AL

Established in 1831, The University of Alabama is a four-year research institution in Tuscaloosa and the oldest and largest public university in the state. UA features 12 colleges and schools conferring bachelor’s degrees in over 70 fields of study...

“…

This college is great for hands-on experience and in class learning. The teachers really care and are very knowledgeable in the area they teach. I have been able to take advantage of my teachers' office hours and really get to know them. I learned...

” – Brittney from Birmingham, AL

Established by a local pastor in a former hotel, Ohio Wesleyan University is a liberal arts college in mid-Ohio. OWU confers bachelor’s degrees in over 90 fields of study and more than a quarter of the student body chooses to double major. Throughout...

“…

Although it has a 66% acceptance rate, the classes are far from easy. Class sizes usually fall between 6 and 30 so participation is a must. Professors are fully invested in the enrichment of the students, so as students, we are expected to be focused...

” – Jen from Spring, TX

Arkansas Tech University is a public institution based in the Arkansas River Valley. ATU also operates a satellite campus in the Ozarks that offers two-year associate degrees and certifications. Admissions to ATU are selective. A majority of students...

“…

Even though I've only been a student here for a few weeks, I'm already very impressed with the classwork and the professors in general!

” – Jacqueline from Alma, AR

SUNY at Fredonia is a 4-year public liberal arts college in western New York State and part of the State University of New York system. Fredonia encompasses colleges of Liberal Arts, Education, Business, Music, and Performing Arts conferring...

“…

All the teachers make themselves available for the students 24/7. If they aren't in their office, they are always reachable by e-mail or phone. They have flexible schedules so if you can't meet with them during their office hours then they schedule a...

” – Amoree from Liverpool, NY

John Carroll University is a Jesuit Catholic university located near Cleveland, Ohio. JCU offers more than 70 academic programs in the arts, sciences, and business that carry out the vision of creating inspired leaders who strive to increase the...

“…

jcu is rigorous depending on the classes/major you study, but overall it is challenging to a degree that helps you learn, but it's not so challenging that finals are impossible.

” – brad

The only university in the country originally founded by United States Catholic bishops, Catholic University of America is a Catholic research institution in Washington, DC. Catholic University is home to 12 schools granting bachelor’s degrees in...

“…

The Catholic University of America is in a vibrant international metropolis that offers everything. It is a warm and inviting environment that cares deeply about the intellectual, emotional, spiritual,and physical well-being of each student. The...

” – William from East Windsor, NJ

The University of Detroit Mercy is a private institution based in Detroit, Michigan. The school is sponsored by the Religious Sisters of Mercy and the Society of Jesus. The school operates three campuses, McNichols, Riverfront, and Corktown, making...

“…

The classes that I have been enrolled in have been challenging, yet reasonable. I feel as though I am learning a lot of material very thoroughly, but I am able to keep up with it. The small class size helps students learn more especially in...

” – Allison from Shelby Township, MI

Originally founded as an agricultural college, North Dakota State University is a 4-year public school in Fargo. NDSU is home to seven colleges offering bachelor’s degrees in over 45 areas of study. In addition to classroom space, North Dakota State...

“…

There are plenty of majors and classes to select from. NDSU does a very good job of keeping classes interesting and very informative. I believe that the classes I take from my major are very crucial part of class and I love taking them.

” – Bryce from Woodbury, MN

Founded by the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity, Daemen College is a 4-year, now nonsectarian, private school in the Buffalo-Niagara region of New York State. Daemen grants undergraduate degrees in 23 academic majors and all...

“…

All of the teachers I have had so far are very knowledgeable and helpful

” – Thomas from Buffalo, NY

With the guidance of Henry and Edsel Ford, Lawrence Technological University developed during an innovation explosion that would change the world. LTU is still changing the world by preparing students in colleges of Arts & Sciences, Architecture &...

“…

Lawrence Tech is a good University for students who want to have the whole college experience. Their programs consist of many classes to focus towards your degree, but there are other, core courses, that help students get a well-rounded education...

” – Melvena from Chicago, IL

Located in Albany, the capital of New York, the College of Saint Rose is a liberal arts institution sponsored by the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Carondelet. This 4-year institution is located in the Pine Hill neighborhood, which is noted for its...

“…

I have learned alot about myself and the path I want to take in the future. I think that being able to change your major with such ease is a major part of my success. There are so many different classes to choose from that it is easy to explore...

” – Rochelle from esperance, NY

Founded in 1892, Southern Adventist University is an evangelical Christian college in south Tennessee affiliated with the Seventh Day Adventist Church. The first Adventist school in the south, Southern confers undergraduate degrees in 64 majors. As a...

“…

When I went to Southern I learn so about the school and what I should expect when I attend. The staff are very friend and treat everyone with kindness.

” – Child of God from Norcross, GA

The College of Southern Nevada is a 2-year institution that was founded in 1971. CSN has three main campuses, in Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, and Henderson, making it the state’s largest higher education institution. As a community college, CSN...

“…

I have met so many different people from many different cultures. Because of its' low cost for basic courses, many people from other countries come here! It is so cool!

” – Anayanci from North Las Vegas, NV

With campus overlooking Perkiomen Creek, Ursinus College is a 4-year liberal arts college in the Philadelphia metro area. Ursinus grants bachelor’s degrees in 60 academic areas of study and all first year students are enrolled in the college’s...

“…

The professors are always there for students anytime the student needs help. It is important to the university that the students truly understand the material, instead of just squeezing by. All of the professors have a wide range of knowledge and...

” – Stephanie

Founded in 1957 by the Evangelical Free Churches of America, Trinity Western University is an independent Christian liberal arts college in the Vancouver metro area and the largest Christian liberal arts school in Canada. Trinity Western is home to...

“…

It is a beautiful campus and has very natural scenery. They teachers aren't impersonal. It is a place to go if you want a university experience without being lost in the crowd.

” – Maria from Canada

Founded in 1851, Coe College is small liberal arts institution and national leader in producing Fulbright Scholars. The college is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church and has a “more selective” admissions process. Coe College requires that 100%...

“…

the people of coe are very friendly and there are many ways to get involved. the teachers are always willing to help out if you need it. the campus is beautiful and kept clean.

” – Clara

Founded in 1860, Augustana is a selective university located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and affiliated with the Lutheran Church. Offering more than 100 majors, minors, and pre-professional programs for undergraduates, plus graduate degrees and...

“…

Each professor strives to utilize text, lecture, and assignments to ensure each student truly dives into the subject matter. What truly sets Augustana College above and beyond on this level is the attention to the ideas that unite the disciplines. I...

” – Mallory from Yankton, SD

With a campus along the shores of the Flint River, the University of Michigan-Flint is a regional campus of the University of Michigan system. UM Flint is home to colleges of Arts & Sciences, Nursing, Health Sciences, Management, and Education...

“…

Every day I learn something new about my area of study and about adult life. College has helped me so much more than high school ever could, and I so look forward to becoming a teacher and passing this joy on to other students.

” – Alisha from Millington, MI

With campus a short distance from Lake Taneycomo, the College of the Ozarks is an evangelical Christian liberal arts college in southwest Missouri. College of the Ozarks grants undergrad degrees in 28 academic majors and all courses feature a Christ...

“…

I know I will learn a lot here because you have most of the the things I want to partake in.

” – Natalie from virginia, IL

Marietta College is a small, private liberal arts college that was founded in 1835. All first-year students are required to take a College Life and Leadership Laboratory course as well as a first-year seminar. Students can compete for places in the...

“…

Professors are professors for a reason, and the ones at Marietta are by and large very good teachers as well. Knowledgeable and passionate about their subject matter, the only thing stopping an ambitious student from learning from them is laziness or...

” – Thomas from Falls Church, VA

Augusta University is a public institution in eastern Georgia, a short distance from the Savannah River. Home to 10 colleges and schools, Augusta offers programs in the liberal arts, cyber security, business, and education, as well as a full range of...

“…

While currently attending Georgia Health Sciences University (now known as Georgia Regents University), I can that I am more satisfied with the professors, education, and knowledge gained from this university than I anticipated. Previously I had...

” – Heather from Woodstock, GA

Prescott College is a private, non-profit, liberal arts college located in Prescott, Arizona. With a focus on social justice and the environment, the college favors intellectual exploration and community over academic hierarchy. Resident students at...

“…

This school offers me the ability to apply all of the courses I take, directly to my life experience as Galadriel. I can so easily make the connections between my courses and how they all work together to formulate the degree of my dream: Holistic...

” – Ariel from Wolfeboro, NH

Whitworth University is a nationally ranked, private Christian liberal arts university in Spokane, Wash. Founded in 1890, Whitworth enrolls over 2,300 undergraduate students and offers more than 100 majors and programs between its College of Arts &...

“…

Whitworth believes strongly in an education of mind and heart and this is obvious through all of the professors. Class sizes are fairly small, allowing lots of interaction between students and professors. The material is challenging, but there is...

” – JD from Livingston, MT

Faith and learning; at Colorado Christian University, we prefer the combination. With more than 100 majors, minors, and emphases to choose from, you'll integrate dynamic learning with rock-solid faith, and begin to discern God's plan for your life...

“…

The Professors are all very well educated and deeply care that students are keeping the knowledge they gain from the classes throughout life.

” – Katherine from Colorado Springs, CO

New Jersey Institute of Technology is the state’s public polytechnic university and is located in the University Heights neighborhood of downtown Newark, NJ. NJIT offers 120+ programs across its six specialized schools for a population of more than...

“…

NJIT is a fantastic university. It will take a year to get used to all of the things that happen on campus; however, once you're set, everything goes smoothly. Plus, they've got some great food that is served here!

” – Ayrton from Newark, NJ

Hood College is a liberal arts institution situated on 50 acres in Frederick, Maryland, which also maintains several research centers, including for coastal & watershed studies, teaching & learning, and the humanities. Hood offers 32 areas of study...

“…

The classes are smaller, so I feel like students have a better relationship with their professors.

” – Katie from Hagerstown, MD

Concordia University Chicago is a private liberal arts institution based in River Forest, Illinois, with selective admissions. It is affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod and provides a curriculum focused on Jesus Christ. Popular fields...

“…

This college had provided me with the opportunity to take classes that no matter what the subject I learn a lot. My general courses and my specified classes are all very informational for life itself. The professors know how to relate life to the...

” – Heather from South St Paul, MN

Wilkes University is a private four-year institution in Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania offering 45 in-demand majors, including engineering, business, nursing and pharmacy. With a beautiful campus, state-of-the-art facilities, vibrant student life, small...

“…

The classes are small, so better one on one with teachers. Teachers are very personable and helpful. Can get tutors for free or see teachers during office hours for help. Study sessions are also available to review and discuss information for...

” – Samantha from Wilkes Barre, PA

Founded by the creator of Domino’s Pizza, Ave Maria University is a Catholic liberal arts college in southwest Florida. Ave confers bachelor’s degrees in 33 academic majors and all classes focus on creating dedicated followers of Jesus Christ. As a...

“…

Ave Maria is semi difficult to get in because the academics are vigorous and the school is excellent in the liberal arts area. If you are considering pursuing a career in law, I suggest you check Ave Maria University out. The law program here is...

” – Kristin from Mason, OH

Founded in 1742, Moravian University is the nation's sixth oldest college and offers students a private education they will not find anywhere else: personal attention and preparation for life with a record of success longer than our nation’s history...

“…

This school absolutely pushes you to your limits and beyond, but not in an entirely over-stressed manner. Students here have teachers who are both mentors and friends. The professors here make sure that students learn all the material that is needed...

” – Student from Allentown, PA

Experience more at Wartburg!

Studying in another country, performing research with your professors, and completing internships will give you resumé-worthy experiences and new perspectives that better prepare you for what’s next. And we’re here to...

“…

The professors on staff are some of the most competent professionals I've ever had the pleasure of working with. From top-notch Religion professors, to published English professors, to accomplished Music professors, the entire staff is rich in...

” – Kyle from Waverly, IA

Founded in 1839 and nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia Military Institute is the oldest state-supported military college in the United States. VMI confers bachelor’s degrees in 14 academic majors within departments of Science, Liberal Arts...

“…

This school is definitely one of a kind. The Ratline that all freshmen must experience is the hardest thing I have ever done, but it is so rewarding one you get through it. It teaches you the important lessons that are so vital to a successful...

” – Kimberley from Newland, NC

Founded in 1884, Woodbury University is a 4-year institution located in Los Angeles, CA. Offering 26 fully-accredited professional and liberal arts undergraduate and graduate majors, classes average 15 students and the institution maintains a student...

“…

i could not be happier coming here; i have never learned more in such a short period of time. the people who come here are amazing, the teachers are even better, and the work i'm producing is so different than my stuff i was working on a year ago...

” – Haley from Burbank, CA

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

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

Founded in 1872, Lyon College is a 4-year liberal arts college in northern Arkansas and one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the state. Lyon confers bachelor’s degrees in 15 academic disciplines. In addition, Lyon houses a Scottish...

“…

Lyon College provides a very aggressive academic program, their classes are invigorating, challenging, interesting and provide interaction with an amazing faculty. The homework helps to make the information in class concrete within the memory. And...

” – Karisala from O Fallon, IL

Established in 1850, Illinois Wesleyan University is a 4-year liberal arts university in Bloomington, IL. IWU offers bachelor’s degrees in over 80 academic fields of study, as well as an optional May Term, a month-long experiential learning option...

“…

The starting points for classes are well tailored to your high school work. I was placed onto the Analysis track based on my AP scores, but the new information I was acquiring was similar to my sociology class. I have never taken sociology before...

” – Nick from Lexington, IL

College placeholder image

Trine University is a private, 4-year institution established in Angola, Indiana. The college features a number of special academic opportunities, such as the Lifetime Guarantee program which promises graduation within 4 years, the Four Plus One...

Founded by a Presbyterian missionary, Austin College is a 4-year liberal arts college in northeast Texas. Austin grants bachelor’s degrees in over 55 academic areas of study. Additionally, Austin oversees a JanTerm program where students are given...

“…

Austin College is a great school that has a lot to offer and teach the students who attend there. This college is definitely challenging when it comes to academics to ensure that the students are prepared to graduate and be the best in whatever...

” – Cassandra from Lake Jackson, TX

DeSales University is a private institution affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. The school provides a liberal arts curriculum with a focus in the Catholic tradition. It is home to dance studios, TV and film studios, simulation laboratories...

“…

The faculty make sure to deliver personal one-on-one attention to each student. It's a guarantee that one of the first professional contacts you have out in the field will be one of your teachers, and DeSales only uses full time teachers in the...

” – Lawrence from Sellersville, PA

Cornerstone University is a private, Christ-centered institution established in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Life on campus is rooted in the college’s Cornerstone Virtue Project, which guides students in the exploration of virtue throughout chapel...

“…

I am a new Christian and I wanted to learn how to practice Christian views in a growing secular culture. In classes, I love that the teachers care about their students and integrate Christ into little lessons like grammar review. It makes class time...

” – Nicole from Rockford, MI

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