Looking for ways to ease the financial stress of college tuition? ACT scholarships could be the answer! These scholarships offer students the chance to fund their education based on their performance on the ACT exam. Many colleges and organizations award scholarships to students with strong ACT scores, making it a valuable tool for college admission and financial support.
ACT scholarships allow students to earn financial aid for college based on their ACT test scores, which reflect academic achievement. Many scholarships consider high ACT scores as a key factor, with some even allowing super scoring—where the highest scores from multiple test attempts are averaged for a stronger result. By exploring scholarships early in high school, students can align their goals, focus on improving their scores, and maximize their chances of securing awards that match their interests and aspirations.
Whether you’re just starting your test prep or are ready to dive deep into the ACT exam syllabus, aiming for a strong score can open doors to a range of ACT scholarships that can make your college dreams a reality.
List of ACT Scholarships for Indian Students
If you’re an Indian student looking to ease the financial burden of college tuition, exploring ACT scholarships can be a game-changer.
| Scholarship Name | Application Deadline | Application Window | Award Amount | Minimum ACT Score Required | Additional Notes |
| Air Force ROTC Scholarships | December 31 | Open year-round | Full tuition, fees, and book stipend | 26 | Ideal for students pursuing ROTC programs. |
| University of Illinois Chicago Chancellor’s Fellows | November 1 | August 1 – November 1 | Up to $7,500 annually | 33 (Illinois residents only) | Available to Illinois residents. |
| Colorado Christian University Trustees’ Scholarship | April 1 | Open year-round | Up to $18,000 annually | 28 | Renewable based on criteria. |
| Engebretson Foundation Scholarship | March 1 | January 1 – March 1 | $5,000 per semester | 28 | Supports high-achieving students. |
| Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Scholarships | October 15 | June – October | Varies by score | 27+ composite and 27+ in Math | Check specific university requirements. |
What are Merit Scholarships for ACT?
Merit scholarships for the ACT are financial awards granted to students who achieve high scores on the test. They allow students to earn financial support for college based on academic performance. Many colleges, organizations, and private foundations offer these ACT scholarships to reward academic excellence and motivate high-achieving students to pursue higher education.
Given the competitive nature of these awards, understanding the ACT exam syllabus is essential for success. By dedicating time to each section of the syllabus—English, Math, Reading, Science, and Writing—students can enhance their scores and improve their chances of qualifying for these ACT scholarships.
Not only do these scholarships alleviate the financial burden of college, but they also recognize students’ hard work and dedication to their education. For those aiming to secure top ACT scholarships, preparation is key. This includes factoring in the ACT exam fees for each attempt and building solid study strategies tailored to the ACT exam syllabus. With focus, commitment, and a deep understanding of the ACT Exam syllabus, students can maximize their scores and increase their eligibility for these valuable merit scholarships.
How To Find Scholarships Using Your ACT Score?
Finding ACT scholarships is simpler than you think. Here are some ways to get started:
- Review curated scholarship lists for quick and targeted options.
- Use popular scholarship search platforms and filter by ACT scores to find relevant awards.
- Check the scholarship sections of your prospective colleges’ websites, as many offer ACT scholarships based on test performance.
- Research state programs that provide automatic ACT scholarships for achieving specific score benchmarks.
What Is a Good ACT Score for Scholarships?
The ACT score needed for scholarships depends on your goals and the type of scholarship. Academic scholarships usually require higher ACT scores compared to those based on extracurricular achievements, athletic abilities, financial need, or other criteria. Researching various scholarships can help you set a target score to aim for.
Keep in mind that an ACT score is often just one part of the application. Most ACT scholarships also require additional materials, such as transcripts, recommendation letters, essays, and more. Even if your ACT score falls below the desired range, it’s still worth applying!
How is the ACT Score Calculated?
ACT scores are calculated through a structured process, which helps standardize results across different test forms and test dates. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how the scoring works:
| Step | Description |
| Count Correct Answers (Raw Scores) | The number of correct answers in each ACT section—English, Math, Reading, and Science—is totalled. There’s no penalty for wrong answers, so guessing is encouraged. The raw score is the total number of correct answers per section. |
| Convert Raw Scores to Scale Scores | Raw scores are converted to a scale of 1–36 for each section. This ensures consistent scoring across different test dates, so scores represent the same performance level regardless of when the test was taken. |
| Calculate the Composite Score | The scale scores from each section are averaged to calculate a composite score, ranging from 1 (low) to 36 (high). Fractions of one-half or more are rounded up to the nearest whole number. This score is key for college admissions and scholarships. |
| Review Reporting Categories | Each section is divided into categories, showing total questions, correctly answered questions, and the percentage correct. These align with ACT College and Career Readiness Standards and help identify strengths and improvement areas. |
| Optional Writing Score (if taken) | The optional Writing section is scored separately on a 2–12 scale and does not impact the composite score. Some colleges may require it. Writing test fees apply, so verify college requirements before deciding to take it. |
What is a Good ACT score?
A good ACT score depends on the requirements of your target schools and the ACT scholarships you’re aiming to secure. Here’s what to know about achieving a competitive score and the minimum ACT scores often required for scholarships:
- A score of 30+ is competitive for top colleges, but “good” scores vary by institution.
- Higher ACT scores improve chances for scholarships and merit-based aid.
- Many scholarships require a minimum ACT score of 25–30.
- State-based or university-specific scholarships may have varying score requirements.
- Understanding the ACT syllabus helps achieve balanced section scores.
- High section scores boost the composite score, increasing scholarship eligibility.
- National scholarships often require ACT scores above 30 and provide significant support.
- Investing in ACT exam fees can lead to scholarships and merit awards.
- Retaking the ACT can improve scores and scholarship opportunities.
- Some scholarships consider section scores, like Math/Science for STEM programs.
- State scholarships often require scores of 23–28 for eligibility.
- College-specific scholarships usually start with scores of 25 or higher.
- Scoring 26–28+ broadens access to more scholarship opportunities.
- Focused study can help achieve higher scores across all ACT sections.
Why Consider Using ACT Scores for a Merit Scholarship?
ACT scholarships can significantly reduce college tuition costs, making higher education more affordable. Here’s why you should consider using ACT scores for a merit scholarship:
- Many ACT scholarships reward academic achievement, recognizing students who excel in standardized testing.
- A strong grasp of the ACT Exam syllabus helps students score higher. This boosts their chances for merit-based scholarships.
- ACT scholarships are often based on composite scores. So, the test is vital for students seeking financial aid.
- Unlike need-based scholarships, ACT scholarships focus on merit. They allow high-achieving students from any background to qualify.
- Preparing for the ACT exam can boost college applications. Many scholarships consider both scores and academic readiness.
- Investing in ACT exam fees can be worthwhile. Higher scores can yield scholarships that far exceed the test’s cost.
- High ACT exam scores often impress scholarship committees. This boosts students’ chances for awards.
- Some colleges offer automatic ACT scholarships for certain score ranges, making it easy for students to apply and qualify.
- ACT scholarships can recognize students’ dedication and effort and make their achievements more visible to colleges and organizations.
How to Apply for ACT Scholarships?
Applying for ACT scholarships may seem overwhelming, but the process is quite manageable when broken down into steps. Here’s how you can successfully apply for the ACT scholarships of your choice:
- Research Scholarship Opportunities: Utilize the designated portals to search for ACT scholarships that match your eligibility. Take the time to carefully read all the requirements and eligibility criteria outlined for each scholarship.
- Confirm Eligibility: Before proceeding, ensure that you meet all the stated eligibility criteria. Additionally, jot down any important deadlines to ensure that you submit your application on time.
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all documents for your application. Include your ACT score reports, high school transcripts, personal essays, and letters of recommendation, along with any other requested materials.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Each scholarship will provide specific instructions for completing the application. Please follow these guidelines exactly when filling out the form.
- Submit Your Application: After you finish the application, submit it via the portal of the institution offering the ACT scholarships. With that, you’re all set!
Conclusion
In conclusion, your ACT scores can unlock many scholarships and greatly reduce college tuition costs. By mastering the ACT exam syllabus and its scoring system, students can improve their chances of winning merit-based awards. A strong ACT score can boost your scholarship chances. Remember, every point counts!
If you want to boost your ACT scholarship chances, consider Manya – The Princeton Review. Our expert tutors can guide you with tailored study plans and ensure you excel in the exam. Contact us today to get started on your journey to academic success!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the highest ACT score?
The highest possible ACT score is 36. This score can greatly improve your chances for ACT scholarships. It shows high academic readiness per the ACT exam syllabus.
What is the lowest ACT score for scholarships?
Different schools set the lowest ACT score for their scholarships. Many require a minimum score of about 25. Always check the specific criteria for each scholarship opportunity.
What percentile is a 17 on the ACT?
A score of 17 on the ACT usually puts a student in the lower percentiles, around the 25th. This score may limit eligibility for many ACT scholarships. So, students should improve their scores by mastering the ACT exam syllabus.
What ACT scholarship score gives you a full ride?
To get a full-ride scholarship, most colleges seek ACT scores of 30 or above. High scores may qualify you for prestigious ACT scholarships. They cover tuition and other costs, helping with ACT exam fees.
