36 ACT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 36 ACT Score
The ACT is a standardized test taken by high school students throughout the country and consulted by colleges and universities during the application process. The exam is made up of four sections: Reading, English, Science, and Math. There are 215 questions and it’s scored on a scale between 1 and 36, with each section awarded its own score. The average of those scores is your composite score. The mean composite score for all ACT test takers is 20.8.
Students can choose to take an optional Writing portion, a section which tests your ability to write an essay that clearly presents an argument with supporting evidence. This portion is graded separately and differently.
Is a 36 ACT Score (100 Percentile) Good?
A 36 ACT score is most certainly good — in fact, it’s great. It’s the best possible score! A 36 ACT score makes you eligible to apply as a competitive candidate at all institutions — this includes elite and selective colleges and universities, as well. On top of that, you can expect a sizable amount of merit aid.
To really press how well a 36 is, it puts you at a 100 percentile — meaning that you scored higher or as high as all test takers. Only 0.19% of test takers earn a 36, which is around 3,700 students in the most recent years. Congratulations!
What Colleges Can I Get Into with an ACT Score of 36?
As the highest possible score on the ACT, a 36 ensures consideration for admission at every college. We’ve put together a sample of schools to consider below. If you don’t see the college you’re looking for on this list, rest assured that they will accept a perfect ACT score as well. Be aware that no score guarantees admission by itself but all of these colleges and universities have a history of admitting students who earn a 36.
Should I Retake the ACT with a 36 Score?
After earning the highest possible score on the ACT, you’ve already fulfilled every requirement regarding the standardized test portion of the admissions process. There’s absolutely no reason to retake the ACT.
If you’re a junior, focus on your GPA, whether it’s maintaining it or giving it a little bit of a boost to better complement your ACT score. Analyze your choices for college and determine your Likely, Target, and Reach choices. Visit colleges and get your name (and your stellar academic performance) on their radar.
For seniors, focus on all other aspects of the college application process, from the personal essay to the list of after school activities. Dedicate time to composing a persuasive and thoughtful essay and show it to your college counselor for a critique. Be sure to contact a few teachers who made an impact on your high school career and ask for a letter of recommendation, as well.
Because your ACT score exceeds the benchmark for every college, it might make the application process feel more daunting due to the sheer volume of colleges to choose from. If you feel overwhelmed by the number of choices, schedule a meeting with your college counselor. They can help narrow down your list of schools and point you in the direction of a college or university that best fits what you’re looking for.
36 ACT to SAT Equivalent
A 36 ACT score is equivalent to earning a 1570 to 1600 on the SAT. There are a few key differences between these two tests, but this is a good way to understand how your score compares to the other standardized test.
Scholarships for a 36 ACT Score
When it comes to finding scholarships, there will be no shortage for a 36 ACT score. On top of earning a significant amount of merit aid from your potential future institution, you’re also well set up to apply for third-party provider scholarships, as well! On top of that, you should also apply for scholarships based on your passions, life circumstances, location, and much more. Get started today using our scholarship database.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 36 a good ACT score?
A 36 ACT score is the highest possible score, making it, unarguably, a good score. A 36 ACT score makes you an eligible and competitive candidate at every school. Congratulations!
What colleges can I get into with a 36 ACT score?
A 36 ACT score makes you an eligible and competitive applicant at every college and university. Among your many options, you can include Stanford University, Yale University, and Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Institution.
At this level, please make sure to apply for the upper amount of colleges, around 10, since the competition is so competitive. Perfectly qualified applicants, even those with a 36 ACT, get denied at Ivy League institutions every single year. This isn’t meant to say don’t apply — do! Submit those applications! Just make sure to also find less selective colleges you love to apply to as well. Best of luck!
What percentile is a 36 ACT score?
A 36 ACT score puts you at the 100th percentile, meaning you scored higher or as high as all test takers.
What is the SAT equivalent of a 36 ACT score?
A 36 ACT score is equivalent to earning a 1570 to 1600 on the SAT.
What scholarships can you get with a 36 ACT score?
A 26 ACT score qualifies you for a significant amount of financial aid, both from your potential future institution and from third-party scholarship providers. On top of applying for merit scholarships, apply for scholarships based on your location, passions, life circumstances, and so much more. Get started today!
