If you’re a student dreaming of attending an Ivy League university, you might be wondering what ACT composite score is needed. Standardized tests like the ACT are a crucial component of the admissions process, and often weighed more heavily than all four years of high school grades combined, because they provide a level playing field on which to compare applicants nationwide. While no ACT score guarantees admission, a high one can significantly strengthen your application.

Understanding the Ivy League ACT Score Range

The Ivy League is comprised of eight prestigious institutions:

• Harvard University
• Princeton University
• Yale University
• Columbia University
• University of Pennsylvania
• Dartmouth College
• Brown University
• Cornell University

A handful of other universities, though not in the Ivy League, are on a similar level of prestige and selectivity:

• Stanford University
• The University of Chicago
• MIT
• CalTech

Each of these schools receives tens of thousands of applications annually, and standardized test scores remain a major factor in the admissions process. With competition fiercer than ever, understanding the target ACT score range can help you set realistic goals and maximize your chances of getting accepted.

The Ideal ACT Score for Ivy League Schools

The middle 50% ACT composite score range for admitted students at Ivy League institutions typically falls between 33 and 35. Let’s break it down for each one:

• Harvard University: 33-35
• Princeton University: 32-35
• Yale University: 33-35
• Columbia University: 33-35
• University of Pennsylvania: 32-35
• Dartmouth College: 32-35
• Brown University: 33-35
• Cornell University: 32-34

A perfect 36 ACT score can significantly strengthen your application, but remember that Ivy League schools evaluate students holistically. High test scores alone won’t guarantee admission.

What If Your ACT Score Is Below the Ideal Range?

If your ACT score falls below the middle 50%, you’re at a disadvantage. However, admissions officers do consider various other factors:

• GPA & Rigor of Coursework: High grades in AP and honors courses can help.
• Extracurricular Activities: Leadership roles, athletics, fine arts participation, and community service can bolster your application.
• Compelling Essays: A well-crafted personal statement can make a significant impact.
• Strong Letters of Recommendation: Insightful endorsements from teachers and mentors can add depth to your application.

Should You Retake the ACT?

If your ACT score is on the lower end, retaking the test might be a smart move. Here are some scenarios where a retake is beneficial:

• You scored below 33 and have your sights set on Ivy League schools.
• You didn’t prepare adequately the first time.
• Your Math or Reading score is significantly lower than those of the other sections.

The Role of Superscoring

Some Ivy League schools consider superscoring, which means they take your highest section scores across multiple ACT test dates to calculate the best possible composite score. If one section needs improvement, targeted preparation for a retake can be a game-changer.

Holistic Admissions: More Than Just a Score

Although standardized test scores are important, Ivy League universities emphasize a holistic admissions process. A perfect ACT score can be detracted from by a lack of extracurriculars, leadership, and academic rigor, and conversely, a slightly lower ACT score can be helped to a limited degree by an otherwise impressive application.

How The Best Test Prep Can Help You Achieve Your Target ACT Score

Crushing the ACT isn’t about luck—it’s a natural result of mastering the test’s material and having razor-sharp test-taking mechanics. At The Best Test Prep, show you everything you need to know and teach you professional test-taking techniques. We’ve helped countless students break past perceived score barriers and achieve Ivy League-worthy results.

Why Choose Us?

• Elite Instructors: Unlike big-box prep companies, we’re a boutique that hires only experienced instructors with years of proven success.
• Customized Preparation: Every student is unique, and needs to be taught in an optimal way. We tailor strategies to target weaknesses and amplify strengths.
• Proven Techniques: Our students learn professional problem-solving methods to maximize accuracy and speed.

What Is Your Game Plan for Being Admitted to an Ivy League School?

If an Ivy League university is your goal, your ACT score is a critical factor. Aim for a 35-36, so if you miss, hopefully, you’ll still land at around a 34, well within the target range. The goal is always admission with a scholarship, with just admission as a backup.

At The Best Test Prep, we know that every student has 100 times the potential they think they do, and we’re determined to unlock it. Contact us now at (844) 672-PREP for professional ACT tutoring, and start your journey to the Ivy League!