Yes, a 34 on the ACT is an exceptionally good score and is considered excellent.
What Does a 34 ACT Score Mean?
A score of 34 on the ACT is indeed an excellent achievement. Given that the maximum possible score on the ACT is 36, a 34 places you in a highly elite group of test takers.
Understanding the Percentile
One of the most significant indicators of how good a 34 ACT score is its percentile ranking. According to the reference, anything 34 and above on the ACT is in the 99th percentile. This means that if you scored a 34, you have performed better than 99% of all other test takers nationwide. This statistic alone highlights the outstanding nature of your performance.
Impact on University Admissions and Scholarships
Achieving a 34 on the ACT puts you in a tremendously strong position for a wide range of academic opportunities. This score is highly competitive and is typically well above the average for most universities, including many highly selective institutions.
Your score can significantly benefit you in two key areas:
- Admissions: A 34 ACT score demonstrates exceptional academic preparedness and intellectual capability, making you a very strong candidate for admission to the majority of universities. This includes many top-tier, highly selective colleges and universities across the country.
- Scholarships: Beyond admissions, this score can open doors to numerous scholarship opportunities, including merit-based scholarships directly from universities and external organizations. A high ACT score often serves as a key criterion for significant financial aid awards, potentially reducing the overall cost of higher education.
Key Benefits of Scoring a 34 on the ACT
- Highly Competitive Admissions: Enhances your application at nearly all universities, including Ivy League institutions and other top-ranked schools.
- Significant Scholarship Opportunities: Makes you eligible for substantial merit-based scholarships, potentially reducing tuition costs.
- Flexibility in College Choices: Provides a wider array of options when selecting colleges, allowing you to choose based on fit, programs, and location rather than just score requirements.
- Demonstration of Academic Excellence: Signals to admissions committees that you possess strong foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills.
ACT Score Percentile Overview
| ACT Score | Percentile | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| 36 | 99th | Perfect score, top 1% |
| 34 | 99th | Excellent score, performed better than 99% |
| 30 | 93rd | Very strong score, top 7% |
| 24 | 77th | Above average |
| 20 | 50th | Average score |
In conclusion, a 34 on the ACT is not just good; it's an outstanding achievement that reflects exceptional academic potential and provides a significant advantage in the competitive landscape of college admissions and scholarships.
