How ACT Scores are Used

Both high schools and college use ACT scores. High schools can use ACT scores to evaluate the quality and effectiveness of their educational approach. They can use the scores to determine which academic areas, if any, need to be improved. They can also use ACT scores to advise and counsel students. High schools may use ACT scores to identify students who need additional assistance in specific academic areas.

Colleges use ACT scores in several ways, including making admissions decisions, assisting in course placement, aiding academic advising, and providing loans and scholarships. Colleges make admissions decisions based on ACT scores, high school grades, participation in extracurricular activities, and any other information that can provide an insight into the candidate's goals and potential success.

ACT scores can be used to assist college administrators in placing first-year students in the most suitable course section. Most colleges have remedial, regular, and advanced levels of courses. By reviewing ACT scores, colleges can assess which one of these three areas would most benefit a first-year student.

Academic advisors can use ACT scores to plan an academic program with the student. Academic advisors can work with a student to select majors, pick courses, and pursue part-time jobs. By reviewing ACT scores, academic advisors can gain a better understanding of the student's strengths and weaknesses. This allows the advisor to provide the student with the best advice on how to achieve their goals.

ACT scores can be used by colleges and other organizations that provide loans and scholarships to students. Many organizations use ACT scores and high school grades combined with economic need to determine the recipients of various scholarships.