Good ACT Writing Score

 

Good ACT Writing Score 

 

A good ACT Writing score depends on your college goals and how competitive your target schools are. The ACT Writing section is scored on a scale of 2–12, based on four domains: Ideas and Analysis, Development and Support, Organization, and Language Use and Conventions. Two graders evaluate your essay, and their combined scores in each domain result in your overall Writing score. 

Nationally, the average ACT Writing score s typically around 6–7. Scoring above this average demonstrates stronger-than-typical writing skills and places you in a competitive position for many colleges. Generally, a score of 9 or higher is considered vital and places you in the top 25% of test-takers. A score in the 10–12 range for highly selective colleges is excellent and aligns well with competitive applications. 

A score of 7–8 is usually sufficient for moderately selective schools. However, checking your target colleges' specific requirements or recommendations is essential, as some do not emphasize the Writing section. Others may consider it part of a holistic review process, along with your composite ACT score and application essays. 

How to Evaluate Your Score 

A good Writing score should align with your overall ACT performance. For example, if your composite score is 30+, aiming for a Writing score in the 9–12 range helps maintain consistency in your academic profile. Conversely, if your composite score is around 20–25, a Writing score of 6–8 may be adequate. 

College Expectations 

Some colleges don't require the ACT Writing section, while others recommend it as part of the application. Even when required, the Writing score is often considered supplementary, meaning it's less impactful than the composite score or other application elements like your GPA, extracurriculars, or admissions essays. 

A good ACT Writing score depends on your goals and the schools you're applying to. For most students, aiming for a score above the national average of 6–7 is a solid benchmark. For those targeting selective schools, a score of 9 or higher demonstrates strong writing skills and can enhance your application. Ultimately, while the Writing section is essential, it's just one part of a holistic review process, so focus on presenting a well-rounded application.