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What to do with a bad ACT score and how to remove colleges from seeing it?

This was my first time taking the ACT and I was unprepared and did not study well. My score has been sent to my dream UC and I regret it so much. What should I do?

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Kim’s Answer

Vicky,

There is no substitution for being well-prepared. This includes academically as well as physically and mentally. Sleep, diet, and exercise all play a role. So, when you re-take it, be sure to be totally well-prepared.

Also, unless things have changed, the ACT does not penalize you for wrong answers. That means, do not leave ANY questions blank. My strategy for taking such a test is as follows.
1. Walk into the room knowing there WILL be things on the test I have never seen before in my life. There will be questions I don't know. Accept it. Don't stress over it.
2. Walk into the room with a letter in my head. Today, I choose B. For every question I flatly cannot figure out, I will mark "B' and move on.
3. Try to narrow the question down. Perhaps it is A or C? Perhaps A or B? Since there are multiple possible scenarios, in this case I always decide to just choose the letter furthest to the left. And move on.
4. Prior to running out of time (watch the clock!) quickly mark all remaining questions with whatever letter you chose in step 2.

Logic: if you have 10 questions that you mark with the same answer, 2 or 3 will likely be correct. If you have 10 questions marked with random answers, perhaps A,B,C,D, A, B,C,D, A, B - you run the risk of missing them all. I worked with a student taking the military ASVAB. He applied my strategy and increased his score so much they made him re-test and fingerprinted him for ID purposes!

I don't know how to remove a score from a school. I think Michelle covered that pretty well.

Best of luck!
Kim
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Patrick’s Answer

Vicky, please understand that it is completely understandable to feel frustrated after receiving a lower-than-expected ACT score, especially when it’s sent to your dream school. However, keep in mind that a single test score doesn’t define you or your future potential. First, it's important to know that most colleges, including many University of California (UC) campuses, are adopting a more holistic admissions process. This means they take a comprehensive look at your academic record, extracurricular activities, essays, recommendations, and personal experiences—not just standardized test scores. If you’re concerned about your ACT score affecting your application, consider retaking the test after dedicating more time to preparation. Many students improve significantly when they study strategically and focus on areas where they need the most help.

As for removing your score from consideration, unfortunately, once the ACT score has been submitted to a college, you cannot "un-send" or remove it from their records. However, you can explain the situation in your application, particularly in the "Additional Information" section, if applicable. You may want to briefly acknowledge that this was your first attempt and that it doesn't reflect your true abilities, particularly if you plan to retake the test or submit stronger scores in the future.

Additionally, take this as an opportunity to focus on other parts of your application that highlight your strengths—such as your high school achievements, leadership roles, and any other standardized tests or accomplishments. If you haven’t already, you could also consider submitting the SAT (if the college accepts it) or focusing on crafting a strong personal statement that showcases who you are beyond a test score.

Remember, Vicky, it is not about the test score alone—it’s about demonstrating your overall potential and resilience. This is just one chapter of your academic journey, and there are many ways to showcase your capabilities and passion. Keep moving forward with determination, and don’t let one setback stop you from pursuing your goals.
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Dr’s Answer

Hey Vicky! 😊

First of all, don’t worry too much about the score. You’re not alone in feeling like you could’ve done better, especially if you didn’t have enough time to prep. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to handle the situation:

1. Understand Your Score and What You Can Do Next
Check the Score Requirements: Many schools, including UC schools, have a holistic admissions process. This means they look at more than just test scores—things like your GPA, extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation play a big part.
Retake the ACT: If you have time before your application is due, consider retaking the ACT. Many students take the test more than once to improve their scores. It’s totally normal to retake tests, especially when you feel you can improve.
Prep for the Next Test: If you do plan to retake the test, give yourself time to prepare. There are plenty of prep materials online (like Khan Academy or ACT-specific resources) that can help you target your weaknesses.
2. How to Remove Colleges From Seeing Your ACT Score
ACT Score Choice Policy: The good news is that some schools allow you to choose which scores to send. However, the University of California system, which includes your dream UC, does not use Score Choice. This means that all the scores you send to a UC school will be considered, including the one you regret.
How to Manage Your Scores:
For future applications, you can choose which scores to send from other schools or tests (if you retake the ACT or take the SAT).
UCs and Test Scores: The UC system used to require the SAT or ACT, but as of recent years, it has moved to a test-optional or test-blind policy due to changes in admissions and the pandemic. So, if your ACT score isn’t ideal, remember that it may not even be considered in some cases! You can check with the admissions office for specific details about how they’re handling test scores for the year you’re applying.
Optional or Test-Blind Schools: Many schools have moved to a test-optional or test-blind model, meaning they don’t require or even consider standardized test scores at all. It’s worth checking out the specific policies of other schools on your list, just in case!
3. Focus on Other Strengths
Emphasize Your Strengths: Admissions teams at your dream UC (and other schools) will also look at your grades, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and personal essays. A lower ACT score doesn’t define you as a candidate.
Strengthen Your Application: Work on other parts of your application that showcase who you are beyond test scores:
Your high school GPA—keep working hard to maintain good grades.
Essays and Personal Statements—this is where you can really shine! Use this space to show your passion, resilience, and why you want to attend that particular college.
Letters of Recommendation—ask teachers or mentors who know you well to write recommendations that highlight your strengths and character.
4. Take Advantage of Test-Optional Policies
Test-Optional Schools: Many schools, including UCs, are test-optional due to the pandemic. This means you don’t need to submit an ACT score if you don’t want to, and it won’t hurt your chances of getting in.
Focus on What You Can Control: If you feel your ACT score doesn’t reflect your true abilities, you can focus on crafting the best application in every other aspect. Consider applying to schools that don’t require standardized testing.
Final Thoughts:
It’s completely understandable to feel disappointed about your score, but remember—it’s not the end of the road! Many students have been in your position and have gone on to do amazing things. Use this as an opportunity to learn and grow, whether it’s by retaking the ACT, working on your application essays, or focusing on other areas where you shine.

Don’t be too hard on yourself, Vicky. You’ve got this! If you need any more advice or help with your next steps, feel free to reach out! 😊
Thank you comment icon I appreciate you taking the time to answer this. Vicky
Thank you comment icon You're very welcome, Vicky! 😊 I'm so glad I could help. Remember, you’ve got the power to shape your future, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way! Keep exploring, stay curious, and don’t forget to have fun along the journey. You've got this! 🚀✨ Dr H
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Martha’s Answer

Hi Vicky - I am sending support also. It feels bad now, but you can overcome one bad score.

Colleges understand that students can have a bad day for a number of reasons. I agree to take the test again to prove that you can do better. Please take the suggestions above to heart - practice over time, take at least one full test before (so you know you have the stamina), make sure you are well rested and otherwise feeling well on test day, and go into the test room calm and with a positive outlook.

Good luck!
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Ross’s Answer

If you feel that you could have done better on the ACT with better preparation and taking it again is an option, I would recommend retesting. Everyone has an off day and taking another shot could really pay off.

That said, ACT scores are one piece of an application and I also wouldn't over rotate on the importance of this one score. When UC admissions reviews your application, they'll be looking at much more than just the test score, so if you aren't able to retest you may want to put extra effort into the other pieces of the application to ensure your abilities are well represented.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Good Day Vicky!

Understanding Your Options with a Bad ACT Score

If you’ve received a disappointing ACT score and are concerned about its impact on your college applications, particularly for your dream school, there are several steps you can take to address the situation. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can do:

1. Assess Your Score and Understand Its Impact

First, it’s essential to understand how your score fits into the context of admissions at your target colleges. Research the average ACT scores for admitted students at your dream UC (University of California) campus. This information is typically available on the university’s admissions website or through resources like the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Knowing where you stand can help you gauge how much of an issue your score may be.

2. Consider Retaking the ACT

Many students choose to retake standardized tests like the ACT to improve their scores. If you feel that your first attempt does not reflect your true abilities, consider preparing thoroughly and retaking the test. The ACT allows students to send only their highest scores to colleges, which means that if you achieve a better score on a subsequent attempt, you can choose to submit that instead.

3. Use Score Choice Policies

The ACT has a “Score Choice” policy that allows students to decide which scores they want to send to colleges. However, it’s important to note that individual colleges have their own policies regarding score submission. Some schools may require all scores from all test dates, while others allow you to submit only your best scores. Check the specific policies of your dream UC regarding score submissions.

4. Communicate with Admissions Offices

If you’re particularly worried about how this score might affect your application, consider reaching out directly to the admissions office of your dream UC. They can provide guidance on how they view standardized test scores in relation to other aspects of your application, such as GPA, extracurricular activities, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.

5. Focus on Other Application Components

While standardized test scores are one aspect of college admissions, they are not the sole factor considered by admissions committees. Strengthen other parts of your application by focusing on:

GPA: Ensure that your grades reflect strong academic performance.
Extracurricular Activities: Highlight leadership roles and involvement in clubs or community service.
Personal Statement: Write a compelling essay that showcases who you are beyond numbers.
Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong recommendations from teachers or mentors who know you well.

6. Explore Test-Optional Colleges

In recent years, many colleges have adopted test-optional policies, meaning they do not require standardized test scores for admission consideration. Research whether any other universities align with your academic goals and offer flexible testing requirements.

7. Stay Positive and Plan Ahead

Finally, remember that one test does not define you or determine your future success in college or beyond. Stay positive and proactive in planning for both retakes and strengthening other areas of your application.

By following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to handle a less-than-desirable ACT score while still pursuing admission into competitive programs.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:

1. College Board

The College Board provides comprehensive information about standardized testing policies including SAT/ACT details and college admissions processes.

2. National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)

NCES offers statistical data about educational institutions across the United States including average test scores for various colleges which helps students assess their standing.

3. University Admissions Offices

Direct communications from university admissions offices provide specific insights into how individual institutions handle standardized testing within their overall evaluation process.

Probability that the answer is correct: 95%

God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
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Patrick’s Answer

A less-than-ideal ACT score can feel discouraging, especially when it’s sent to your dream school, but it’s important to remember that one test score does not define your potential or your future. Many colleges, including UCs, place significant weight on your overall academic record, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation, and they often view standardized test scores as just one piece of the larger picture. First, you have the option to retake the ACT or consider other standardized tests, like the SAT, if it’s offered at your school. Many institutions, including the University of California system, have adopted test-blind or test-optional policies in recent years, meaning they no longer require test scores for admissions or will not factor them into their decisions at all. However, if your ACT score is already in your application and you’re feeling concerned, it’s important to reach out to the admissions office directly to inquire about any options for removing or disregarding it from your application. Some schools allow applicants to submit a formal request to have test scores excluded, particularly if there is a compelling reason for doing so. Alternatively, focus on strengthening other aspects of your application, such as improving your GPA, crafting strong personal essays, or gaining relevant experiences through internships or volunteer work. In the end, admissions committees look for well-rounded applicants, so don’t let one test score overshadow all the hard work and qualities that make you a strong candidate. Remember, this setback can be an opportunity to reflect, grow, and focus on what you can control moving forward.
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T’s Answer

Your best bet is to study very hard, take it again and get a great score. That is the easiest way to get schools to overlook your initial score.
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Elizabeth’s Answer

Hello!
I agree with the above answers, but I also did a bit of searching on admission requirements for UC. It appears standardized test scores are not required for admission, as of 2020. So you may be able to reach out directly to UC to have the score removed or not considered as a part of your application (if you have already applied).

For any schools you have had your test scores sent to, go review their admission requirements. See if the ACT is a requirement! If it is, I recommend retesting and sending the scores again after you know the score. This should replace the score you've already had sent.
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