Is 18 a good ACT score? Yes, an 18 is around the national average and shows you’re ready for college-level classes. The ACT Exam is a test that many colleges use to check your skills in English, math, reading, and science. It helps schools see if you’re prepared for college work. With an 18 ACT score, you can apply to many good colleges across the U.S. Many of these colleges also offer scholarships to students with scores like yours. This guide will share the top colleges that accept an 18 ACT score, explain your chances of getting in, and give you important info about scholarships and admission. This will help you find the best college that fits your goals and interests.

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Is 18 a good ACT Score?

Is 18 a good ACT score? It’s an okay start, but it might limit your college options. The average ACT score is about 19.5, which means an 18 is a little below that. Some colleges will still accept an 18, especially public or less competitive schools. But aiming for a 20 or higher can give you more choices and improve your chances. If you can, think about retaking the test.

What Colleges Accept a 18 ACT Score?

With an 18 ACT score, you still have some good college options. Many public universities, community colleges, and smaller private schools accept students with this score. The top US schools look at more than just your ACT—like your GPA, activities, and essays. Some colleges that may accept an 18 ACT score include San Francisco State University, California State University, Northridge, and Missouri Valley College. Always check each school’s admission requirements, and focus on building a strong overall application to improve your chances.

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How Does a 18 ACT Score Compare to the National Average?

An 18 ACT score is slightly below the national average, which is around 19.5. That means most students who take the test score a little higher. Still, an 18 shows that you understand basic high school subjects and are getting close to average. While it may not qualify you for highly selective colleges, it’s enough for many public universities and community colleges. You can always retake the test to try for a higher score and open up more options.

Should You Retake the ACT If You Score a 18?

If you got an 18 on the ACT, you have a few options. First, think about retaking the test. Check your score report to see which subjects need the most work, then spend more time studying those areas. Use ACT practice tests, time yourself, and try to copy real test-day conditions. You can also get help from a tutor, test prep class, or talk to a school counselor.

Another option is to adjust your college list. Look up what ACT scores each college accepts. If your score is near their 25th percentile, it’s a reach. If it’s closer to the 75th percentile, you have a better shot. This helps you figure out which schools are likely, target, or reach options for you.

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18 ACT to SAT Equivalent

An 18 ACT score is the same as getting around a 960 to 990 on the SAT Exam. This helps if you’re trying to decide which test to take or want to compare scores. Both scores are a little below the national average, but still good enough for many colleges. Knowing your ACT to SAT equivalent can also help you look at college requirements more clearly. Use this comparison to plan your next steps and decide if you want to retake the test.

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College Scholarships That Accept a 18 ACT Score

You can still get college scholarships with an 18 ACT score! Many schools offer merit-based aid for students with solid scores and good grades. While the amount may be smaller than higher-score awards, it can still help lower your college costs.

• University of Southern Mississippi – Luckyday Citizenship Scholarship – $6,000/year
• Murray State University – Academic Achievement Scholarship – $2,000/year
• University of Louisiana Monroe – Merit Award – $2,500/year
• Delta State University – Statesman Scholarship – $2,500/year
• Arkansas Tech University – Academic Scholarship – $2,000/year
• Missouri State University – Board of Governors Scholarship – $2,000/year

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Top 15 Colleges That Accept a 18 ACT Score

An ACT score of 18 gives you a solid start for college. While it may not meet the requirements for highly competitive schools, there are still plenty of great colleges across the U.S. that accept an 18. These schools offer good academics, campus life, and even scholarship opportunities. In this guide, we’ll share 15 top colleges where your 18 ACT score can help you get accepted.

Note: Tuition fees and enrollment numbers are approximate and may vary. It's recommended to check the official university websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

An ACT score of 18 can still open the door to many great colleges. While it's a little below the national average, you still have plenty of options to explore. Focus on building a strong application with a good GPA, recommendation letters, and a personal essay. If possible, consider retaking the ACT to boost your chances. Remember, colleges look at more than just test scores—your hard work really matters!