Understanding how your ACT score compares to other test-takers is crucial for gauging your performance and planning your college applications. Scoring a 31 on the ACT places you in an elite group, but exactly what percentile does this score represent? Let’s break it down with data-driven insights and practical context.
ACT Scoring Basics: The Scale and Percentiles
The ACT is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with 36 being the highest possible score. Your composite score is the average of your scores in English, Math, Reading, and Science. Percentiles indicate the percentage of students who scored below you. For example, a 90th percentile score means you performed better than 90% of test-takers.
What Percentile Is a 31 on the ACT?
A 31 on the ACT typically places you in the 95th percentile or higher. This means you scored better than approximately 95% of all test-takers. The exact percentile can vary slightly depending on the test administration date, but a 31 consistently ranks among the top 5% of scores.
Why a 31 Is an Exceptional Score
- Competitive Edge: A 31 is well above the national average ACT score, which hovers around 20-21.
- College Admissions: This score is highly competitive for admission to top-tier universities, including many Ivy League schools and prestigious institutions.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Many colleges offer merit-based scholarships to students with ACT scores in the 31-36 range.
Comparing a 31 to Other Scores
To put a 31 in perspective, here’s how it stacks up against other scores:
| ACT Score | Percentile | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| 36 | 99th+ | Top 1% of test-takers |
| 34 | 98th-99th | Top 2-3% |
| 31 | 95th-97th | Top 5% |
| 28 | 88th-92nd | Top 12% |
| 24 | 71st-76th | Above average |
| 20 | 50th-55th | Around national average |
How to Use Your 31 ACT Score
- Target Schools: Research colleges where the middle 50% of admitted students have ACT scores in the 31-36 range. Examples include the University of California schools, University of Michigan, and many other top-tier institutions.
- Superscoring: Some colleges superscore the ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores from multiple test dates. If you retake the ACT, focus on improving specific sections to boost your composite score.
- Holistic Admissions: Remember that ACT scores are just one part of your application. Strong essays, extracurriculars, and letters of recommendation are equally important.
Should You Retake the ACT with a 31?
A 31 is already an excellent score, but if you’re aiming for the most selective schools or specific programs (e.g., engineering), retaking the test to aim for a 34 or higher might be worth considering. However, weigh the time and effort against the potential gains.
Expert Insight
"A 31 on the ACT is a significant achievement and opens doors to a wide range of colleges. Focus on building a well-rounded application rather than obsessing over a perfect score."
FAQ Section
Is a 31 ACT score good enough for Ivy League schools?
+Yes, a 31 is competitive for Ivy League schools, but admission also depends on other factors like GPA, essays, and extracurriculars.
What colleges accept a 31 ACT score?
+A 31 is accepted by most colleges, including top-tier institutions like UCLA, University of Texas at Austin, and many others.
How does a 31 ACT compare to the SAT?
+A 31 ACT is roughly equivalent to a 1390-1440 on the SAT, depending on the scoring scale used.
Can I get scholarships with a 31 ACT score?
+Yes, many colleges offer merit scholarships for ACT scores in the 31-36 range. Check individual school policies.
Key Takeaway
A 31 on the ACT places you in the 95th percentile**, making it a highly competitive score for college admissions. While retaking the test might yield a higher score, a 31 already positions you well for top-tier schools and scholarships.
By understanding the value of your 31 ACT score, you can confidently navigate the college application process and maximize your opportunities.
