Why Your Test Scores Still Matter

Even in a test-optional world, your ACT score remains one of the most powerful tools in your college-admissions toolkit. This guide will show you why it matters, how it can boost scholarships, and what concrete steps you can take—starting today—to turn your ACT into your greatest advantage.

• Test-Optional: You choose whether to submit your score.
   
• Test-Blind: Schools won’t consider scores, even if you send them.
   

💡 Most “test-optional” colleges are actually test-aware—they’ll happily review strong scores and reward you for them!
 

1. Scholarships & Merit Aid
    
   • Many schools tie automatic awards to score thresholds (e.g., a 30+ ACT = $10K+/year).
      

1. Honors Colleges & Special Programs
    
   • Honors, STEM cohorts, leadership tracks often require or strongly prefer submitted scores.
      

1. Competitive Edge
    
   • Between two students with identical GPAs, the one with the higher ACT shines brighter.
      

1. Validation of Academic Rigor
    
   • Demonstrates mastery of critical reading, math, science, and writing skills.
      

• Research Cutoffs: Identify the ACT/SAT ranges at your top 5–10 schools.
   
• Set a Goal: Aim 3–5 or 100- 150 points above the average to stand out.
   
• Plan Your Timeline:
   
  • Sophomore Year: Take a baseline practice test.
     
  • Junior Year (Fall/Winter): Enroll in targeted prep (bootcamp, private coaching).
     
  • Junior Year (Spring): Sit for your first official ACT - earlier if taken Geometry.
     
  • Senior Year (Summer/Fall): Retake if needed to hit your goal.
     
• Targeted Practice: Focus on your weakest section—use sectional drills, timed practice, and error logs.
   
• Simulate Test Day: Full-length, timed tests build stamina and reduce anxiety.
   

1. Take a Free Diagnostic at (request from Coach Dani)
    
2. Review Your Results with Coach Dani —get personalized insights.
    
3. Join The 4-Day Bootcamp (small groups, proven strategies, score-boosting drills).
    
4. Implement & Practice: Use our customized study calendar and video library.
    
5. Retake & Report: Send your highest score to colleges and scholarship committees.
    

• ✔️ Printable 12-Week Study Calendar
   
• ✔️ Sectional Drills & Timed Practice Sets
   
• ✔️ Error-Tracking Log Template
   
• ✔️ Exclusive Scholarships & Grants List (30+ schools)
  
   

“I jumped from a 24 to a 31 in just two months—with Dani’s targeted strategies and daily accountability. That 31 unlocked a $12K/year scholarship!”
— Alex, Class of 2024
 

“The bootcamp’s sectional focus helped me conquer my weakest area—science. I ended up with a 29 overall and a full-ride academic award!”
— Jasmine, Class of 2023
 

Ready to turn your score into dollars, distinction, and confidence?
👉 Download the FULL guide PDF
👉 Book your FREE 30-min strategy session: DaniTheACTCoach.com/consult

Let’s make your ACT/SAT the springboard to your dream college—and the scholarships you deserve!

Dani-the-ACT-Coach
Helping students score higher & dream bigger.