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New Act Essay Writing Section

The new act essay, your full guide to act writing section.

Since September of 2015, the ACT essay / writing section has gone through a radical change. And that’s amazing news for you.

The ACT essay was always easy to master with a bit of practice and the right techniques. However, the new ACT essay is even easier to perfect than the old one ever could have been . This short guide will teach you exactly what’s changing, how to prepare for the new essay, and how to take full advantage of this new format.

Quick side note: If you’re looking for a proven ACT prep system to help you write a flawless essay check out my ACT prep program . It is built on my proven tactics and methodologies and has an average user score improvement of over +4.66 points.

Why did ACT test change?

The new “CORE-friendly” ACT essay / writing portion just makes this test more beatable than it already was. I’ll leave the rest to the ACT’s PR team. For now, let’s get into what you should do about it.

What is Different?

The old ACT writing / essay section gave you a simple prompt, then asked you to take a side on that prompt and argue your point. The basic format looked something like this:

“Watching TV can be bad for your brain. However, sometimes it’s educational, so some people think it’s good for your brain. So in your opinion, do you think that TV is good or bad?

In your essay, take a position on this question. You may write about either one of the two points of view given, or you may present a different point of view on this question. Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.”

The old format couldn’t have been any simpler. “Here are two opinions on a topic. Pick one and then write about it for a few paragraphs.”

The new ACT writing / essay format is much more complicated. But here’s the funny thing: while the new ACT writing / essay FORMAT is much more complex, the process of WRITING these essays has become VASTLY SIMPLER .

Here’s what it looks like now: https://www.act.org/actnext/pdf/SampleWritingPrompt.pdf

Take the time to read through all of this and really get a feel for what the new ACT writing / essay section looks like. Once you do, we shall move on:

How Do You Write This Thing (and why is it so much easier)?

In the old ACT essay, you only had to do one thing – pick a side and argue it. Now, you have to do so much! You need to evaluate three different arguments, you need to come up with your own argument, and then you have to relate your argument to the three arguments given. Oh, the humanity!

But here’s the thing: in the old version of the ACT essay, you had to both come up with an argument and come up with the reasons why you support it. In the new ACT essay, all of the arguments and reasoning behind them is provided for you!

It’s the difference between being asked to “make lasagna or pizza for dinner tonight” and “grabbing something off the McDonald’s dollar menu.” Sure, there are more options on the McDonald’s menu – but they’re already cooked for you!

At first, it seems like there’s a ton more to do. In reality, the ACT is doing all of the hard work for you! All you need to do is read carefully, pick what you like, and then follow a simple process to “plug in your opinion.”

A reminder: If you’re eager to succeed with a proven ACT prep system to help you write a flawless essay check out my ACT prep program . It is built on my proven tactics and methodologies and has an average user score improvement of over +4.66 points .

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How to Do Well on the ACT Essay

Understanding the act essay.

Before diving into strategies to excel, it’s important to understand the structure and requirements of the ACT essay . The ACT essay, also known as the Writing section , is an optional 40-minute test that students can take after the multiple-choice sections. The essay task presents an issue often relevant to high school students and asks examinees to write a persuasive essay that takes a clear stance on that issue, while also addressing and evaluating three different perspectives provided in the prompt. It’s crucial to note that the quality of your argument and the mastery of written English, not your opinion, is what gets scored.

The ACT Essay Scoring System

The ACT essay is scored by two independent graders on a scale of 1-6 across four different domains: Ideas and Analysis, Development and Support, Organization, and Language Use and Conventions. The scores from each grader are added together for each domain, resulting in a domain score ranging from 2-12. These four domain scores are then averaged to give you a final Writing score from 2-12.

Ideas and Analysis

The Ideas and Analysis score reflects your ability to critically examine the topic at hand. Graders are looking for a clear understanding and evaluation of the issue presented, as well as your own insightful perspective on the issue. This domain requires you to address all perspectives given in the prompt, discussing their strengths and weaknesses, and placing them in relation to your own perspective. To score well in this area, you must not only show that you understand the perspectives given but also that you can analyze them in a thoughtful, insightful manner.

Development and Support

The Development and Support domain measures how well you argue for your own perspective and the effectiveness with which you substantiate your argument. A high score in this area requires more than just stating your opinion; you must support it with relevant reasons and evidence. This might include personal experiences, logical reasoning, examples from current events or history, or any other form of support that strengthens your perspective. Additionally, your essay must demonstrate how the evidence provided supports your stance on the issue.

Organization

Organization pertains to the overall structure of your essay, the clear presentation of your ideas, and the logical sequencing of your arguments. An essay with good organization has a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph should have a clear main idea, and all ideas should be linked logically, leading seamlessly from one point to the next. This requires effective use of transitional phrases and topic sentences to guide the reader through your argument. In essence, the organization score measures how smoothly your ideas flow from one to the next and whether your essay guides the reader logically through your argument.

Language Use and Conventions

Language Use and Conventions covers grammar, syntax, punctuation, and vocabulary. To score well in this domain, your essay must demonstrate a command of standard written English. This includes using a variety of sentence structures, employing a wide vocabulary accurately, and adhering to grammatical rules. This domain also considers tone and style; your essay should maintain a formal tone and demonstrate a style that is engaging, persuasive, and appropriate for the task. Remember, complex language should not be used at the expense of clarity. Your primary aim should be to communicate your ideas effectively.

Tips to Ace the ACT Essay

Understand the prompt and plan your essay.

A well-planned essay is a well-executed essay. Begin by thoroughly reading and understanding the prompt and the three perspectives. Absorb the essence of each perspective, jot down initial thoughts, and identify the commonalities or differences between them. This step should not be rushed. Dedicate a few solid minutes to planning your response and structuring your essay.

Outlining your ideas will help you organize your thoughts, avoid redundancy, and ensure you address all necessary points. An outline can be as simple as a list of the main points you plan to address in each paragraph.

Take a Clear Stance

After understanding the issue and perspectives, formulate your unique stance. You may choose to align with one perspective or integrate elements from multiple perspectives to create a hybrid stance. The key is to ensure your stance is unambiguous and unwavering throughout your essay. Your stance should be stated clearly in your thesis statement, which typically goes at the end of your introductory paragraph.

Address Each Perspective

An essential part of the ACT essay task is addressing the three perspectives provided. Ensure you accurately paraphrase each perspective and explain how they relate to your stance. Discuss the merits and demerits of each perspective in a balanced, objective manner. This evaluation demonstrates critical thinking, a skill highly valued in this task.

Write an Engaging Introduction and a Strong Conclusion

Your introduction should capture the reader’s interest and provide a clear roadmap for your essay. Start with a hook—a surprising fact, a rhetorical question, or a provocative statement—to draw your reader in. Then, introduce the issue and state your thesis.

The conclusion, meanwhile, should reinforce your thesis and summarize the main points of your argument. It should bring your essay to a satisfying close without introducing new information. A strong conclusion leaves a lasting impression and underscores the coherence of your argument.

Use Clear and Effective Language

While it’s good to demonstrate a rich vocabulary, clarity should be your main goal. Use precise and concise language to express your ideas. Avoid unnecessarily complex words or convoluted sentences—they often confuse rather than clarify. Make sure your grammar and spelling are impeccable, and your sentences are well-structured.

Practice Regularly

Writing is a skill that improves with practice. Write several practice essays using prompts available online or from ACT prep books. Time yourself to get used to the 40-minute time limit. Seek feedback on your essays from teachers, mentors, or online platforms—this can provide valuable insights into areas for improvement.

Review and Edit Your Essay

After writing your essay, save a few minutes for revision. Proofreading allows you to spot and correct grammatical errors, awkward phrasing, and unclear or unsupported points. Check for variety in sentence structure and ensure your word choice is precise and impactful. Editing is your chance to polish your essay and improve its overall flow and coherence.

The ACT essay might seem daunting, but understanding its structure and scoring system and applying the right strategies can significantly improve your score. With enough practice, you can ace the ACT essay and showcase your writing skills to colleges. Remember, the key is to effectively communicate your thoughts and ideas while engaging critically with the perspectives on the issue.

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ACT Writing and SAT Essay Requirements

On january 19th, 2021, college board announced that they will no longer administer the sat subject tests in the u.s. and that the essay would be retired. read our blog post  to understand what this means in the near term and what the college board has in store for students down the road., our articles on subject tests and the sat essay will remain on our site for reference purposes as colleges and students transition to a revised testing landscape. as an admission tool, students should consider the essay as canceled. compass recommends our students forgo the sat and act optional essays on future exams..

The SAT Essay and ACT Writing continue to pose a conundrum for students. While College Board and ACT have made these components optional, a small number of colleges continue to require or recommend them. Compass believes that students should no longer take the SAT Essay or ACT Writing unless they are applying to (or thinking about applying to) one of the few colleges that still requires the essay. Students who have already taken the essay should not be overly concerned about scores. One reason the essay is fading away is that the scores simply aren’t that accurate or useful. Colleges never really found a use for them, and the essays created an unnecessary obstacle for some applicants.

Rather than worrying about an essay score that is mostly ignored by colleges, Compass believes students should spend their time strengthening the more valuable pieces of their academic portfolio: high school GPA and, more specifically, success in rigorous courses like APs. Compass offers AP and academic tutoring in over 50 subjects to help students stay on pace with their coursework. Our team of subject specific expert tutors will guide the program from start to finish. We also offer a Study Skills and Organizational Coaching program to provide students with the tools they need to excel in the classroom.

The following table of popular colleges provides a wide range of institutions and policies.

Colleges with essay optional policies often do not specify whether submitted essay scores will be used for admission. When the college explicitly states that scores will not be evaluated, we have listed the policy as “Not Considered.” “Optional” should not be interpreted as meaning that the college uses submitted scores. We recommend contacting the school if you have specific questions.

ACT and SAT Essay Requirements - Class of 2019 and Beyond

* In response to COVID-19, these schools have announced temporary test optional or test blind policies, which also effects their essay requirements and recommendations. Please check with the individual schools for more information.

** University of Montana Western has students submit ACT Writing in order to satisfy English proficiency requirements.

Post a comment or send an email to [email protected] with questions or recommended changes.

Related posts:

ACT Writing scores have gone through multiple changes. To try to clear things up, Compass has published ACT Writing Scores Explained . A similar analysis for the SAT is also available.

Our College Profiles page  provides SAT and ACT scores for some of the most competitive colleges in the country.

Score choice and superscoring policies can be found for more than 400 popular colleges and universities.

Subject Test requirements continue to evolve, so Compass keeps an up-to-date list.

Updated 6/24/2020

About Art Sawyer

Art graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University, where he was the top-ranked liberal arts student in his class. Art pioneered the one-on-one approach to test prep in California in 1989 and co-founded Compass Education Group in 2004 in order to bring the best ideas and tutors into students' homes and computers. Although he has attained perfect scores on all flavors of the SAT and ACT, he is routinely beaten in backgammon.

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Hi Art, Hope you are staying safe. Son is sophomore who will be taking the September ACT. He is not a great writer, does not like writing, and does not want to take the writing portion. He likely will score in the 33-35 range and apply to a variety of schools (a couple top [sub-10% acceptance rate] privates and top publics, as well as some less competitive universities and colleges). Not applying to any UC schools. Do you think lacking the writing score — which likely would be average — will hurt him? Put another way, would doing the writing help him at schools where it is “optional” assuming his score is not great but not terrible? Thanks. ST

ST, If colleges were completely honest, they would admit that the Writing test is dead. Some won’t state it so bluntly because it sounds like writing is not important. I don’t think there will be any colleges that care about your son’s Writing score by the time he applies. He should pass on it in September.

Thanks Art — appreciate the great advice here and on this web site generally!

If I’m understanding correctly, the only students who need to be taking the writing/essay exams are those applying to the first 9 schools on your list that are “required” or “recommended”? In this wild west post-Covid era of college testing where it seems the only constant thing is change, it is hard to understand why anyone would still take the essay portion if they aren’t applying to any of those 9 schools. We are in CA so it used to be needed for the UC’s but as you noted even that has changed. So now post-Covid, do you still advise most of your students to take the writing exams, or feel that there is “more upside than downside” to taking them? My 11th grader previously did the SAT w/essay and scored 760 R&W, 650 M, and 4/4/5 on the essay. He’ll be retaking it to improve his math score, or possibly switching over to the ACT since SAT isn’t offered this summer (He was scheduled for the March exam that was cancelled the day before, so we are re-evaluating our options). Thanks very much for your insight.

BSS, I’d go even a step further and say that — except for students applying to West Point — the essay can finally be retired. I’m not sad to see it go!

Given that your son is already considering the ACT, I’d recommend looking at July ACT and August SAT dates. Not that he needs to take both, but the strategy is a hedge against cancellations. Registration for some students just opened up for the SAT dates, but it sounds like your student will need to wait until registration goes wider on June 3.

Duke: “Recommended” Duke website: “We do not require the optional essay.” https://admissions.duke.edu/apply/ I don’t see anywhere that they recommend it.

Also, on your Subject Test page: Duke: “Recommended Strongly ” Duke website: “We do not require Subject Tests.” I see nothing that would indicate it is “Recommended Strongly”. https://admissions.duke.edu/apply/

Caltech – “Optional” Caltech website – “Caltech also does not require the SAT Essay or ACT Writing exam sections. These sections will not be considered in the application review process.” http://admissions.divisions.caltech.edu/apply/first-yearfreshman-applicants/standardized-tests

I believe the vast, vast majority of the colleges you list as “Optional” similarly don’t even consider a writing score.

Thanks for reaching out! And thank you, in particular, for the Duke update. Just a few weeks ago we checked their site and they still had Subject Tests listed as recommended strongly with the “or ACT” twist. We’ve updated the Subject Test page to reflect that. We still have Duke listed as recommending the essay because of this: https://today.duke.edu/2018/07/duke-makes-sat-essay-act-writing-test-optional-applicants (this announcement is from almost two years ago, but we haven’t heard anything to specifically counter it.)

We recognize that the essay is becoming increasingly less relevant in admissions, and we have plans to revisit this list and put the “Optional” schools in better context.

Hello Mr. Sawyer, I have an SAT score of 1510 and my essay score is 5/4/6 should I consider taking the SAT again to improve the essay score if I plan to apply to the top universities such as Harvard, Yale and Duke.

Mazin, You should not repeat the SAT just because of your Essay score. You may have seen the news yesterday that College Board is phasing out the Essay. It is simply no longer a concern.

Mr. Sawyer, what are you thoughts on the ACT writing (essay). Do you expect it to follow suit and discontinue it like the SAT essay?

Marjorie, My first thought is that — ACT’s decision aside — students should not take the Writing test. It is disappearing for good reason — it’s just not very good or useful.

ACT will make a business decision, just as College Board did — although not necessarily with the same immediate result. ACT may want to retain the fees it is receiving for the Writing test. It may also try to wait just long enough not to seem that it is following College Board’s lead. ACT typically implements changes during its school calendar year of Sept – July. I would not be surprised to see the essay discontinued after the summer administrations.

Mr. Sawyer-Wanting some advice. My junior just took the ACT and scored a 33 composite with a 35 in English and a 34 in reading. Our school had recommended the writing test so he took it and bombed it with a 6/12. He has taken all honors and AP English classes offered and done excellent. GPA is 3.95 unweighted. I wonder if his horrible handwriting played a role but now he is stuck with a 6 on writing. Should he retake the test just to improve that score? If so does he take it with writing again or simply try to score a 33 without writing and submit that score. He’s looking at Carleton, Pomona, Grinnell along with some others.

Sarah, One of the reasons the essay has been abandoned is just how fluky the results can be. I would not recommend retesting only to raise his Writing score.

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Complete List: Which Colleges Require ACT Writing?

What Is the ACT Writing Test?

The ACT Writing Test is an optional section of the ACT exam that assesses a student's writing skills. It provides colleges and universities with an additional measure of a student's readiness for college-level writing assignments. The test consists of a single prompt that presents a specific issue or topic and requires students to take a position on it. Students are given 40 minutes to plan, write, and revise their response.

The ACT Writing Test evaluates a student's ability to analyze multiple perspectives, develop and support an argument, and effectively communicate ideas in a coherent and organized manner. It assesses critical thinking, reasoning, and persuasive writing skills. The essay is scored on a scale of 2-12 by two independent readers who evaluate the overall quality of the response, including its development, organization, and use of language.

While the ACT Writing Test is optional, many colleges and universities require or recommend it for admissions. Some schools use the writing score as part of their evaluation process, while others consider it as supplemental information. It is essential for students to check the requirements of the schools they are applying to in order to determine whether they should take the ACT Writing Test.

Preparing for the ACT Writing Test involves honing writing skills, familiarizing oneself with different types of prompts, and practicing writing under timed conditions. Students should develop their ability to construct a clear thesis statement, support it with relevant evidence and examples, and demonstrate strong reasoning and critical thinking skills.

Taking the ACT Writing Test can provide students with an opportunity to showcase their writing abilities and enhance their college applications. It allows them to demonstrate their proficiency in expressing ideas effectively and persuasively. By preparing adequately and practicing writing skills, students can perform well on the ACT Writing Test and present themselves as strong candidates to colleges and universities.

Why Do Some Schools Require ACT Writing?

Some schools require the ACT Writing Test as part of their admissions process for several reasons:

1. Writing Assessment: The ACT Writing Test provides colleges and universities with a standardized measure of a student's writing abilities. It allows admissions officers to evaluate a student's writing skills, including their ability to construct a well-organized essay, develop and support arguments, and convey ideas effectively. By assessing a student's writing proficiency, schools can better determine if the student is prepared for the rigors of college-level writing assignments.

2. Holistic Evaluation: Including the ACT Writing Test helps colleges and universities get a more comprehensive understanding of a student's academic abilities. It complements other components of the application, such as grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities, providing a more well-rounded view of the applicant. Schools may consider the writing test to gain insights into a student's critical thinking, analytical skills, and ability to communicate effectively.

3. Writing-Intensive Programs: Some colleges and universities place a strong emphasis on writing skills and have writing-intensive programs or majors. For these institutions, the ACT Writing Test becomes an important tool for assessing a student's aptitude for written communication. Requiring the writing test helps ensure that admitted students are capable of meeting the demands of writing-intensive coursework and projects.

4. Standardized Comparison: The ACT Writing Test provides a standardized way to compare writing abilities across applicants. It offers a consistent measure of writing skills that is easily comparable across different schools and regions. By requiring the writing test, schools can use it as a common benchmark for evaluating applicants and making admission decisions.

It's important for students to research the requirements of the schools they are interested in to understand whether the ACT Writing Test is required or recommended. Some schools may consider the writing score as an important factor in their evaluation process, while others may place less emphasis on it. Understanding the expectations of each school will help students make informed decisions about whether to take the ACT Writing Test and how to best prepare for it.

What Kind of Colleges Require ACT Writing?

Several colleges and universities require the ACT Writing Test as part of their admissions process. These schools may have different reasons for including the writing section and vary in their emphasis on its importance. Here are some types of colleges that often require ACT Writing:

1. Highly Selective Colleges: Many highly selective colleges and universities, including Ivy League institutions, top-ranked private universities, and prestigious liberal arts colleges, often require ACT Writing. These schools receive a large number of applications and aim to holistically evaluate candidates, considering their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and writing abilities.

2. Writing-Intensive Programs: Colleges and universities with writing-intensive programs or majors often require the ACT Writing Test. These programs may include majors in English, creative writing, journalism, communications, or any field that emphasizes strong writing skills. Requiring the writing section helps these institutions assess a student's ability to meet the demands of writing-intensive coursework.

3. Honors Programs: Many colleges and universities have honors programs that offer advanced coursework, research opportunities, and a more challenging academic experience. These programs often require the ACT Writing Test to gauge a student's writing skills and intellectual capabilities. Demonstrating strong writing abilities is particularly important for admission to honors programs.

4. Scholarship Consideration: Some colleges and universities require the ACT Writing Test for scholarship consideration. Merit-based scholarships, especially those that focus on academic achievement or leadership, may use the writing score as a factor in awarding scholarships. Requiring the writing section allows these institutions to assess a student's overall potential and eligibility for financial aid.

5. State Universities: Some state universities, particularly flagship and highly competitive public institutions, may require the ACT Writing Test. These schools often have a large applicant pool and may use the writing section to differentiate between candidates who have similar academic profiles. Requiring the writing test helps these universities make more informed admission decisions.

It's important for students to check the specific requirements of each college or university they are interested in to determine whether ACT Writing is mandatory or recommended. College websites and admissions offices typically provide this information. Students should also consider their own writing abilities and goals when deciding whether to take the ACT Writing Test, as well as the potential benefits it may provide for their college applications.

Full List of Colleges That Require ACT Writing

While the ACT Writing Test is optional for most colleges and universities, there are some institutions that require or recommend it as part of their admissions process. Here is a list of colleges and universities that currently require ACT Writing:

1. University of California (UC) System: All nine campuses of the University of California system require ACT Writing. These campuses include UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC San Diego, UC Davis, UC Santa Barbara, UC Irvine, UC Santa Cruz, UC Riverside, and UC Merced.

2. Claremont McKenna College: This private liberal arts college in California requires ACT Writing for admission.

3. Colorado School of Mines: ACT Writing is required for admission to this public research university specializing in engineering and applied science.

4. Georgia Institute of Technology: Georgia Tech requires ACT Writing for admission to its undergraduate programs.

5. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: This public research university requires ACT Writing for admission.

6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): MIT requires the ACT with Writing or the SAT with Essay for admission.

7. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor: The University of Michigan requires ACT Writing or SAT Essay for admission.

8. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: ACT Writing is required for admission to UNC-Chapel Hill.

9. University of Notre Dame: ACT Writing or SAT Essay is required for admission to Notre Dame.

10. University of Pennsylvania: The University of Pennsylvania requires ACT Writing or SAT with Essay for admission.

11. University of Virginia: ACT Writing or SAT with Essay is required for admission to the University of Virginia.

Please note that this list is subject to change, and it's essential for students to verify the requirements of each institution they are interested in as part of their college application process. Additionally, some colleges and universities may recommend ACT Writing but not require it. Students should check with individual institutions to understand their specific policies regarding ACT Writing.

In conclusion, while the ACT Writing Test is optional for most colleges and universities, there are some institutions that require or recommend it as part of their admissions process. It is important for students to research and understand the specific requirements of each college they are interested in to ensure they meet the necessary criteria. Adhering to the ACT Writing requirements can help students present a comprehensive application and increase their chances of admission to their desired institutions.

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What if i am homeschooled.

Each applicant to Harvard College is considered with great care and homeschooled applicants are treated the same as all other applicants. There is no special process, but all relevant information about your educational and personal background is welcome. In addition to the application, all applicants are required to submit a transcript (which can be created by the family member or agency overseeing your schooling), and recommendations. If the application fee presents a hardship for your family,  simply request a fee waiver .

Hear from Harvard students who were homeschooled, in the Harvard Gazette article ‘ Homeschooled en route to Harvard .’

What if I need to make updates to my application after I submit it?

Do not resend your application in order to make updates. If you need to update your identification or contact information, or send updates, additional information, or corrections, please do so via the  Applicant Portal .

Misrepresentation of Credentials

Be completely accurate in your application materials. If we discover a misrepresentation during the admissions process, you will be denied admission. If you have already been admitted, your offer will typically be withdrawn. If you have already registered, your admission will normally be revoked, and we will require you to leave the College. Harvard rescinds degrees if misrepresentations in application materials are discovered.

The determination that an application is inaccurate or contains misrepresentations rests solely with the Admissions Office and will be resolved outside the student disciplinary process.

School Reports and Teacher Recommendations

Secondary school report.

The secondary school report is a required form that is submitted by your school counselor or another school leader. This form gives an overview of the student's academic record. It includes the applicant's academic transcript(s), a letter of recommendation, and a school profile (if available). If a counselor is unable to submit a letter of recommendation for the applicant, another teacher or school leader may submit an additional recommendation letter. 

Midyear School Report

When you apply, your school counselor will often send your transcript with few or no senior year course grades included. That is why the midyear school report is required - to allow us to review your performance in the first half of your senior year coursework .  The midyear school report must be completed by your school counselor or other school official. Please request that the midyear school report is completed and returned to our office as soon as possible. 

Midyear School Report FAQs

What if i'm applying restrictive early action and i don't have my midyear grades yet.

Restrictive Early Action applicants are not required to submit the midyear report by the November 1 deadline. If you applied Restrictive Early Action and are deferred to Regular Decision, please submit the midyear report and transcript in February, or as soon as your midyear grades are available.

I'm an international student and my academic year is different. Do I still need to submit the midyear report?

If you study the IB curriculum or the A-level curriculum, then we expect that your school will send predicted grades, based on your current classroom work and the results of any internal or mock exams you have taken up to that point. If your school does not issue official or predicted midyear grades for your final year of school, then you do not need to submit the midyear report form, although the item may remain on your checklist.

What if I have already graduated from high school?

If you have already graduated from high school, you should ignore the midyear report requirement (though the item may remain on your Checklist in the Applicant Portal) and simply ask your school to send a final school report if you have not already done so.

Teacher Evaluations

Ask two teachers in different academic subjects who know you well to complete the Teacher Recommendation forms (which includes an evaluation form and a letter of recommendation). If you wish to submit additional letters of recommendation, you can do so after you submit your application. In your application confirmation email, there will be a personalized link to send to your recommenders.

What courses should I take to prepare for applying to Harvard?

There is no “one size fits all” rule about which curriculum to study during secondary school years. Students should challenge themselves by taking courses deemed appropriate by their teachers and counselors. But some students believe that “more is always better” when it comes to AP, IB or other advanced courses.

While some students prosper academically and personally by taking large numbers of such courses, others benefit from a more balanced approach that allows them additional time for extracurricular and personal development. Even the best students can be negatively affected by taking too many courses at once, and might benefit instead from writing, reading or research projects on subjects of great interest to them.

To learn more, read our Guide to Preparing for College. To avoid the “burnout” often seen among secondary school students, please refer to our article, Time Out or Burn Out for the Next Generation .

Is there a specific math requirement?

Applicants to Harvard should excel in a challenging high school math sequence corresponding to their educational interests and aspirations. We recommend that applicants take four years of math courses in high school. Ideally, these math courses will focus on conceptual understanding, promote higher-order thinking, and encourage students to use mathematical reasoning to critically examine the world. Examples include rigorous and relevant courses in computer science, statistics and its subfields, mathematical modeling, calculus, and other advanced math subjects.

Students’ math records are viewed holistically, and no specific course is required. Specifically, calculus is not a requirement for admission to Harvard. We understand that applicants do not have the same opportunities and course offerings in their high schools. Moreover, many programs of study at Harvard do not require knowledge of calculus. We encourage applicants to take the courses that are available to them and aligned with their interests and goals.

Students intending to study engineering, computer science, physics, mathematics, statistics or other fields where calculus is needed may benefit from taking calculus in high school. However, students at Harvard can still pursue such fields by starting with one of our introductory calculus classes that has no high school calculus prerequisite. On balance, we encourage all students to master foundational mathematical material instead of rushing through any of the more advanced courses.

Final School Report and Transcripts

All admitted students who choose to enroll are required to send a Final School Report and transcript as soon as their final grades become available – no later than July 1 . The Final School Report and transcript should be completed and sent by a school counselor or other school official through:

• Naviance Network
• Common Application
• Coalition/Scoir Application

IB students should send their final results as soon as they are released in mid-July. We will expect to see final A levels results by mid-August. We are unable to accept a transcript as an email attachment.

Standardized Test Scores

Harvard College will require the submission of standardized test scores from applicants for admission as part of the comprehensive application process that takes a whole-student approach.

The College will accept the SAT or ACT to meet the standardized testing requirement. In exceptional cases when those tests are not accessible, one of the following can meet the requirement:   

• AP exam results
• IB Actual or Predicted Scores   
• GCSE/A-Level Actual or Predicted Results   
• National Leaving Exams Results or Predictions

Standardized Testing FAQs

Can i self-report my test scores.

Yes. Applicants may provide self-reported SAT and ACT test scores (including Subject Tests, Advanced Placement, IB, etc.). Admitted students who decide to enroll at Harvard College will be required to submit official test scores.

How do I send my test scores?

You are free to use the College Board Score Choice option or the similar option offered by the ACT. Our official codes are 3434 for the College Board SAT Reasoning Tests and 1840 for the ACT if you are submitting official test scores as part of your application.

• How to send your SAT scores
• How to send your ACT scores

Are there test score "cutoffs"?

There are no score cutoffs, and we do not admit “by the numbers.” For the ACT, we will evaluate your highest composite score and any other scores you choose to share with us. We take into account your educational background when reviewing your scores.

How should I prepare for standardized tests?

Our admissions committee understands that opportunities to prepare for standardized tests vary greatly for students of different socioeconomic backgrounds. You may find it helpful to utilize free-test prep from Khan Academy or join a free SAT bootcamp on Schoolhouse.world . The ACT provides sample tests to practice.  Such free programs could help students from under-resourced schools by providing the academic tools that will serve them well on standardized tests and also in college. Students can also do well by studying widely and deeply  on their own with the help of family, school, or community organizations.

What do standardized tests and grades indicate about academic preparation for college?

SAT and ACT tests are better predictors of Harvard grades than high school grades. However, admission officers understand that not all students attend well-resourced schools throughout their lives, and that those who come from modest economic backgrounds or first-generation college families may have had fewer opportunities to prepare for standardized tests.

High school grades in a rigorous academic program can also be helpful in assessing readiness for college courses, but the thousands of secondary schools around the country and the world employ various high school curricula and a wide range of grading systems - and some have no grades at all. Other students have been homeschooled or prepared for college by taking part in multiple schooling opportunities both in person and electronic.

Given the wide variation in how students prepare for Harvard – as well as the fact that most applicants and admitted students have outstanding academic records – it is difficult for high school grades to differentiate individual applications. That does not mean that high school grades are unimportant. Students who come to Harvard have done well day to day in their high school studies, providing a crucial foundation for academic success in college, including a 97% - 98% graduation rate.

Each application to Harvard is read with great care, keeping in mind that talent is everywhere, but opportunity and access are not.

How will Harvard evaluate the new digital SAT?

The College Board's shift to a digital delivery of the SAT will not impact the way in which Harvard reviews test scores within applications. Please  visit the College Board FAQs  for more information.  

Supplemental Materials

Our standard application materials typically give us ample information for making admission decisions. However, we recognize you may have truly exceptional talents or achievements you wish to share, and we want you to have every opportunity to best represent yourself.

At the discretion of the Admissions Committee, supplementary materials—such as music recordings, artwork, or selected samples of academic work—may be evaluated by faculty. These materials are entirely optional.

Material Types

How to submit documents and articles.

Scholarly articles, research, creative writing or other documents of which you are the primary author should be submitted in the Upload Materials section of the Applicant Portal . This is the most efficient and direct method of submitting these materials, because they will be added directly to your official application. All submissions should include a list of any individuals with whom you collaborated in the production of the work. If appropriate, please identify your research sponsor, mentor, and/or laboratory or research group leader and provide a short description of your particular contribution to the work.

How to submit media (video, audio, or images)

You may submit optional supplementary media materials (e.g. videos, audio recordings, or images) electronically via Slideroom . Details for submissions in art, dance or choreography, musical performance or composition, will be found on the Slideroom website. There is a small submission fee, but if this fee causes you economic hardship, you may request a fee waiver at the point of submission. You may also contact us to request a fee waiver.

If you encounter technical difficulties on Slideroom, you may submit a document via your portal with YouTube video links. Our team may follow up to request a Slideroom submission at a later time. 

Should I submit other academic materials?

Harvard accepts other standardized tests or other academic credentials if you choose to submit them. In any admissions process, additional information can be helpful. For example, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, A-levels, national leaving examinations, national or international contests, early high school assessment scores such as the PSAT or pre-ACT, or courses taken outside your school during the school year or summer are just some examples of information that could be submitted. Subject Tests and the essay portion of the SAT have been terminated, except in certain special circumstances. Harvard admission officers review all materials that an applicant submits, so if you’ve already taken Subject Tests or the essay portion of the SAT, you may still submit them along with your other application materials.

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Related Topics

Not sure how to fill out the admissions application to Harvard? Here are some helpful tips from our admissions committee.

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Here's everything you need to know about applying to Harvard College as a first-year applicant.

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Extracurriculars.

A Complete List of Colleges Requiring SAT/ACT 2024-2025

What’s covered:, which colleges are requiring standardized tests, how will my sat/act score affect my chances of acceptance.

While the increased prevalence of test-optional policies started with the pandemic, many institutions, including some of the most selective colleges, have extended or even made these policies permanent. However, a range of prominent public universities and tech schools, particularly in the South, have been requiring tests again for a couple of years now, and for the 2024-2025 cycle, half the Ivy League will once again be requiring all applicants to submit a test score.

These varying strategies reflect the ongoing discussion across higher education about the usefulness of standardized tests in assessing student potential . Regardless of your personal opinions on standardized tests, you want to make sure you know the testing policies of the schools you’re applying to. If you’re wondering if a school on your list is requiring standardized tests this year, keep reading to find out.

Note: Please make sure to check the official website of the school you’re applying to. Some schools may recommend taking standardized tests, but it’s not required. However, especially if the school is highly selective, a recommendation should generally be viewed as a requirement.

Given the competitiveness of the modern college admissions landscape, many colleges, even test-optional ones, still place a high value on your SAT or ACT score. CollegeVine’s free chancing engine allows you to understand how your test scores, along with other elements of your profile like GPA and extracurriculars, affect your chances of acceptance.

With this tool, you can play around with different parameters, like higher SAT or ACT scores, to see how much they’d boost your chances of getting in. If you’re thinking about retaking the SAT or ACT, getting a concrete sense of how much a higher score would help you can be invaluable.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

How to Write an ACT Exam?

Your high school GPA may play an important role in your college admission, but the ACT exam may have the final say. What is an ACT exam? The ACT is an entrance exam that most colleges utilize to decide on a candidate's admission. The main purpose of the writing test is to disclose and measure the applicants' readiness for college studies. 

The admission officers review the test score along with your high school GPA to make their final decision. Of course, the classes that you took, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation from your teachers, and your application, where you discuss the high school experience from your own perspective, will be reviewed as well. While the importance of the ACT scores may vary from college to college, the higher the score, the more options for the college enrollment you have. 

The ACT exam consists of four sections that include English, Reading, Math, and Science. Aside from that, the prospective candidates are given forty minutes to do the writing test. Writing an essay can be quite difficult; that's why you need to prepare for it. The good news is that ACT essay examples are available online, and you can view sample in this article as well. So, basically, that's what the ACT exam is about. But let's dive into the details with our dissertation help services team. 

What is the ACT Exam?

The ACT exam 2022 consists of several sections that reveal your knowledge of various school subjects. The ACT exam stands for “American College Test”. It's a multiple-choice test where you have a number of questions and several options of answers. And you need to be ready to give it almost four hours. 

How long is the ACT exam exactly? You have two hours and fifty-five minutes for the multiple-choice test and forty minutes for the writing section. The ACT exam 2022 length gives you enough time to choose the correct answers and dive into your essay, which is quite complex. Basically, in the writing test, you will have to expand on the provided important topic and three different perspectives on it. 

When writing a coherent essay, make sure that you show your abilities in several core aspects. You need to be capable of generating ideas and analyzing them from various perspectives. It's also crucial that you provide pieces of evidence that support your viewpoint. The essay must be organized logically, so the reader can easily slide through the narrative. Finally, proper written language use and conventions are also extremely important. 

The Structure of the ACT Writing Test

If you are planning to pass the ACT exam 2022, you need to know the structure of the exam. First, let's look at the time you're given for completing each section, as well as the number of questions each ACT section has. What is the ACT exam, if not an exercise on time management? You have to plan basically every minute while you're taking it. Let's divide the ACT exam length for every section:

How to Write an Act Exam

All in all, you have 3 hours and 35 minutes for the ACT exam, meaning that you have just enough time to go through the test once and mark all of the right answers. Aside from it, students have a ten-minute break after the Math section and five minutes rest before they start writing the essay. Try doing an ACT practice exam and actually see when you might need breaks. You've already learned the most important aspects of the written ACT exam scoring. Now, let's take a look at each section of the multiple-choice test. 

English Test

The ACT English test consists of 75 questions, and the 45 minutes given for it means that you'll have between 30 and 40 seconds for each writing. This section can be divided into three parts in terms of content:

Conventions of Standard English 

This is by far the largest part of the test, as more than 50% of the test is devoted to the conventions. The questions focus on grammar, syntax, punctuation, and the correct use of words. Here you may be asked to choose the correct verb or tense. This part focuses on the general rules of English, so you don't have to write essays, sharing your own perspective on world problems or books.

Production of Writing

Around 30% of the test is devoted to the production of writing. Here, students are given passages from the various texts to check how good they are at seeing the big picture. You must choose the correct answer based on the tone or purpose of the passage. Questions in this section also concern the literary style and strategies used by the author. 

You may need to also know what is diversity essay while preparing for the exams.

Knowledge of Language

This is the smallest part of the English test, as its share ranges between 10% and 20%. This segment focuses on style, tone, and precision. 

The Math test may seem to be a bit too easy at the beginning. But that's because it's arranged in order of difficulty. Basically, you can say that out of sixty questions; the first twenty are quite easy. The next twenty questions are of medium difficulty, while the last twenty questions are the most difficult ones. Check an ACT practice exam to see at what point you really start to struggle with the questions so that you have an idea of what to review. Now, let's see the percentages that each math topic has in the test:

• Pre-algebra - accounts for 20%-25% of questions;
• Elementary algebra - ranges between 15% to 20% of questions;
• Intermediate algebra - up to 20% of questions;
• Coordinate geometry - takes 15%-20% of questions;
• Plane geometry - around 25% of questions;
• Trigonometry - ranges between 5% to 10% of questions;

The good thing is that the ACT exam allows using a calculator, so you don't have to waste a lot of time if you are not the brightest in terms of calculation. 

Reading Test

The reading test has a lot in common with the production of writing questions in the English test. In this section, students are given passages from texts and questions about the passages. You may be asked to identify the author's attitude toward the main subject of the passage. The meaning of this or that word in the context of the passage. The main idea of the body paragraphs. The meaning of the phrase or the function this or that sentence serves within the text. The important part is that you don't have to develop your unique perspective of the text - this is the part of the test that measures your ability to analyze given information without adding your own perspective on the issue.

Science Test

The Science section includes topics like biology, chemistry, space and earth sciences, and physics. You may be asked to pick the right conclusion from the options you have for graphs and diagrams. The section includes questions on conflicting viewpoints. Here, students are provided with a description of a certain phenomenon with several hypotheses on its explanation. Then you need to choose which assumption reflects the notion provided in the questions. 

How to Improve Your Writing Skills?

Considering the ACT exam dates 2022, you still have time to practice the ability to discuss ideas and convey arguments with clarity - improve your writing skills for the essay. You don't know the topic you’ll get, so deciding to buy an essay paper won't be that helpful. But there are a few things that you can do to improve your writing for the ACT exam. 

• Read and write - if you do it frequently, you won't have problems with the test;
• Get familiar with current social issues and various opinions on them;
• Taking debate classes will prepare you for the essay;
• Try writing extracurricular activities, like creative writing clubs;
• Share your writing with others;

Basically, improving your writing can be shaped into a simple formula: read-write-repeat. Read how other people write and try writing yourself. That will master the style and improve your ACT exam scoring. You can try blogging to master your skills. As for the organization of your writing, you can always seek advice from your English teachers and generate productive ideas. Asking your classmates and friends what they think of your writing can also help greatly. Just remember that no one is born with perfect writing skills. You can achieve it only through practice. 

Use our free Plagiarism Checker!

How to Write an ACT Essay?

After all, despite the complexity of the ACT exam 2022 multiple-choice tests, the essay task remains the most difficult part of it. You might have checked ACT essay examples, but writing one yourself in a short time of 40 minutes can be quite stressful. You need to have a strategy for writing. So, here are the steps that can help you. 

• Devote around ten minutes to planning your essay. 
• Think of the way you're going to organize it. 
• Read the one writing prompt and the multiple perspectives, and choose the one you're going to work on. If you check an example ACT essay, you know what to do. 
• Brainstorm the ideas and analysis, as well as supporting pieces of evidence you can provide. 
• Picture the structure of your essay, and then devote 30 minutes to writing it so that you will have just enough time on the test day. 

You want to know how to write Common App Essay Prompts 2022-2023? We encourage you to check out the fresh topics in our article.

ACT Essay Sample

Finally, we are getting to something you can build your essay on. So, you are to get a prompt with three different perspectives on it, and you need to choose which one of them you're going to write your essay, just like the example ACT essay. Let's imagine that the writing prompt you get will be on cancel culture, as shown in many of last year's ACT essay examples.

"Cancel or callout culture is a tradition of removing the support for certain individuals or their work based on their actions or opinions that can be considered objectionable. Traditionally, individuals are called out on social media, which leads to the general awareness of their perceived offense. In most cases, canceling takes the form of pressuring organizations to prevent the subject of the canceling from public appearances. When it comes to business, it can include boycotting their products" — that's what the writing prompt may look like. 

So Much Homework That You Don't Have Time to Prepare for the ACT?

Delegate the part of your homework to our paper writers for hire , and spend your time preparing for the ACT exam. Let the professionals do the paperwork while focusing on important things!

Now, let's check the three perspectives that you can be provided to defeat the ACT exam scoring system:

Perspective 1:

Cancel culture allows marginalized people to hold their tormentors accountable via public opinion when the justice system fails them. Movements like #metoo allowed numerous women and men to call out their abusers. The cancel culture leads to a safer world, free from abuse of various forms. 

Perspective 2:

While the cancel culture allows people to call out their abusers, we cannot disregard the fact that certain people can use it for their own benefit. The culture leads to people being canceled based on proofless claims, which turns the anti-abuse campaign into witch-hunting. 

Perspective 3:

Cancel culture may lead to a change in power but is ultimately unproductive when it comes to social change. As soon as it became big, it turned into simply casting stones at each other. While we may think that it leads to social justice, it's just engaging in the social media frenzy that doesn't affect real life. 

So, here you have the complex issue and three perspectives on it. First, you need to analyze and organize ideas of everything you know about the cancel culture. Think about the examples that you are acquainted with well. Then, examine each of the perspectives presented to you. Think which one is closest to your own thoughts about the issue. Alternatively, you can choose the perspective that you can support with more pieces of evidence. 

You start your essay with an analysis of the cancel culture as a whole. Then you should move to one of the perspectives given. There, you can expand and convey arguments on the topic by providing your own viewpoint. Your viewpoint must be supported by pieces of evidence. Regardless of the perspective you've chosen, in the case of cancel culture, the Harvey Weinstein and Depp vs. Heard cases will surely have something to do with it. Then you finish your essay with a logical conclusion. 

Don't forget that there must be a logical transition between the passages of your essay. The next passage must expand on the information provided in the preceding one. Your viewpoint must be followed by the supporting evidence. Here’s a sample of an essay that uses perspective two as the foundation: Here you go the ACT exam sample:

Is the ACT Essay Optional?

If you checked the ACT exam dates 2022, you have several months to prepare yourself. The first exam will occur on September 10, 2022, while the last one in the calendar year will be held on December 10, 2022. The biggest question that bugs students is whether the essay is optional. Yes, it is.  Moreover, not every college requires applicants to write an optional ACT essay.

Another important thing is that the total ACT exam scoring is not affected by your essay score. Some colleges think writing the ACT test gives candidates a more rounded score. So, all in all, the essay score matters only together with your multiple-choice results. So, why bother writing the essay at all? 

If you are highly competitive, you should try your hand in the ACT writing section. To prepare for it, you can follow the instructions given in this article and read through the ACT essay examples. If you are a mid-range student, you can opt for the writing test, but you should stress out about it, considering that many colleges do not require completing this section. Less competitive students should avoid the ACT writing test and stick to the multiple-choice test. The only reason they should take it is if the college board requires the essay for admission. 

How to Pass ACT with Flying Colors?

Now that we have discussed the ACT exam meaning, you can realize that it is not an easy task, but it's not that difficult either. Given all the information provided here, you know what to expect from the multiple-choice test and the writing portion, and you already know the ACT exam scoring system. ACT exam dates 2022 are approaching, but there is nothing to be scared of. Check the ACT essay examples , read through test tips once again, solve a few training tests, think about the logical structure of your essay, and keep the scoring rubric in mind- now you are ready to go and take the test without fearing the final score!

Let the experts do the work while preparing for the ACT!

You just can't get it all, so don't compromise and get the best of your last few months of school! Graduate with a great GPA by delegating some of the tasks to our experts while you'll be spending time getting ready for the big test! If you need essay help , just give us your requirements and we'll give you a hand asap.

Perhaps you need some nursing or psychology essay writing service ? Do not hesitate to contact us! Our team is always ready to help.

Pass Your Exams with Flying Colors!

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Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

Academic Requirements

Higher standards are the norm.

The United States Air Force Academy seeks individuals who possess an exceptional academic track record and strong leadership potential. Because we offer one of the most prestigious and respected academic programs around, standards are high. The Admissions process includes a review of two major academic performance indicators. Not sure you meet the requirements? Apply anyway. There are other paths to the Academy.

Prior Academic Record

Your Prior Academic Record (PAR) is a measure of classroom performance and is based on a combination of your class rank and your GPA. When class rank is not provided, the PAR is based on our evaluation of your transcript, school profile and senior year schedule.

To be academically competitive for an appointment to the Academy, we recommend completion of the following high school courses:

• Four years of English (with a college preparatory class in writing)
• Four years of math Strong background in geometry, algebra, trigonometry and precalculus
• Four years of science Lab-based and should include biology, chemistry and physics
• Three years of social studies (to include a course in U.S. history)
• Two years of a modern foreign language We look for modern foreign languages with an emphasis on strategic languages such as Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Spanish, German, French, Portuguese and Russian. While not a modern foreign language, Latin is acceptable. American Sign Language is also an acceptable course.
• One year of computer study Computer Science course or related courses that focus on coding, programming and web development

High School Class Rank

Our recent classes have averaged in the top three percent of their high school classes. Adjustments are made to the PAR for students attending unusually competitive schools with a rigorous college prep curriculum and/or where honors and advanced placement courses are NOT weighted in the school’s calculation of class rank and/or GPA.

To ensure that we make accurate adjustments to your PAR, please ask your counselor to include a profile of last year’s graduating class from your high school with your transcript. Note: A solid foundation in algebra is more valuable than exposure to calculus.

College Admissions Test SAT or ACT

Students may take the SAT and ACT as many times as they’d like. Only the highest scores will be counted. When you register for the tests, request your scores be sent to the U.S. Air Force Academy. The SAT code for the Academy is 4830, and the ACT code is 0530.

Students who score below 620 Evidence-based reading and writing or below 580 math on the SAT reasoning test and below 24 English/reading and 25 math/science on the ACT normally will not be competitive for an appointment directly into the Academy. However, they will be considered for the prep school or a Falcon Foundation Scholarship.

Prep School

This 10-month school is designed to prepare selected young men and women to potentially go on to the United States Air Force Academy and succeed.

Falcon Foundation

Recognizing that many deserving young people with outstanding potential for an Academy education and a desire for an Air Force career need additional academic preparation, the Foundation endeavors to meet this need through its sustaining program of annual scholarship grants.

#YourAcademy

Follow us on Instagram @usafaadmissions to learn more about day-to-day life at the Academy and to get real cadets’ insights.

Your Path to Excellence Starts Here

A freshman applicant is a current high school student (with or without college credit) or a high school graduate with no college credit earned after high school graduation. 

Join the aggie family, what location do i want to attend, college station, higher education center at mcallen, texas a&m university at galveston, how to be admitted, in-state students, top 10% admission.

Texas residents who rank in the top 10% of their graduating class qualify for automatic admission to any state school in Texas.

• Attend a public or private high school in Texas AND
• Rank in the top 10% of your graduating class on or before the application deadline AND
• Report Top 10% rank on Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) AND
• Provide a complete official high school transcript that includes a numeric rank. AND
• Satisfy the State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy AND
• Make sure all required documents are received by the application deadline.

Holistic Review

If you do not qualify for top 10%, but meet the State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy , your application file, which includes all factors you noted, will be reviewed in a holistic manner*.

• Academic factors include all high school courses attempted and grades earned, rigor of coursework, GPA and class rank.
• Non-academic factors include involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, leadership, employment and summer activities as well as extraordinary opportunities, challenges and hardships experienced during high school career.

Students applying for fall admission may receive a decision within a month of file completion. However, applying early does not guarantee an early decision. Generally, most students in review will receive a decision between January 1 and late March. * All applicants to the College of Engineering will be reviewed for placement into General Engineering including students who qualify for Top 10% automatic admission.  This includes Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Computer Science, Industrial Distribution, and Engineering Technology.

Non-Resident Students

Out-of-state.

• Most Out-of-State students are admitted through the holistic review process. Read holistic review qualifications in the In-State Student section above.
• Texas residents completing high school in another state may qualify for Top 10% automatic admission. Submit a residency questionnaire to determine eligibility.

International

You are an international freshman if you:

• are not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States or
• are not graduating from a Texas high school after three years in residence in Texas (please review  Senate Bill 1528 ) and
• are a student without college credit or
• earned college credit prior to high school graduation (dual credit/early college high school)

Learn about your future as an  International Freshman .

What Do I Need to Apply?

Admission application.

Prospective students should apply using the Common App . Students may also apply through ApplyTexas. The application you choose will not affect your admission decision. Only one application per student.

NOTE : On average, it takes 3-5 business days from the time your application is successfully submitted for Texas A&M to receive it. Monitor your email address which you provided on the application for the Application Acknowledgement communication.

Students who are unable to resolve accessibility issues through the Common App may contact the Office of Admissions at [email protected] for assistance.

The application essay is your chance to set yourself apart from other applicants. Texas A&M cares about more than your grades and scores, we want to know what makes you you!

REQUIRED Apply Texas and Common App Essay: “Tell us your story. What unique opportunities or challenges have you experienced throughout your high school career that have shaped who you are today?"

No additional essays will be reviewed.

Read through our essay and application tips to get a step ahead on the competition.

Essays should be submitted as part of the application or uploaded in the Applicant Information System (AIS) .

Non-Refundable Processing Fee

A $75 non-refundable processing fee is required to complete your application.

The application fee can be paid through Common App . Please note: If you apply using ApplyTexas you will not be able to pay your fee within the application. You must follow the steps below.

Watch your email for a message from [email protected] . This email will be sent 24-48 hours after you submit your application.

Follow the directions in the email to access your UIN and activate your NetID.

Login to applicant.tamu.edu to pay or waive your fee.

Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR)

If you need help, see our SRAR FAQs and video tutorials .

The following applicants are required to submit a high school transcript:

• Texas residents reporting a Top 10% ranking must submit the SRAR with their rank and also provide verification of ranking by submitting an official high school transcript with a relative numeric ranking via TREx or the upload feature in AIS.  If no Top 10% rank is reported on the SRAR automatic admission will be delayed. (This only applies to Texas residents ranked within the Top 10% of their senior class.)
• Applicants who have already graduated high school must submit a SRAR and a final high school transcript. Details available on the document submissions page .
• Applicants not completing high school in the U.S. will submit a SRAR and must also  submit official or certified copies of all secondary school records and/or examination results. All academic records not in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation. Learn more about International Freshman requirements .
• GED graduates will not submit a SRAR but must submit their official GED transcript along with official partial high school transcript(s). The original certificate and transcript(s) may be sent by mail or hand delivered to Aggie One Stop .

Note: If a rank is not provided by the high school for students to enter in their SRAR a rank will be assigned.

If Applicable

High school curriculum requirement (texas private high schools only).

Students who do not meet the State of Texas Uniform Admission Policy (UAP) must provide Exemption Form 3 .

Best Method: Upload in the Applicant Information System OR  Mail

Permanent Resident Card or I-551

Students who are not U.S. citizens but are permanent residents (or have applied for permanent residency) need to provide a copy of the card.

For information about submitting the Permanent Residency Card, see the  Document Submission Page .

Senate Bill 1528 Affidavit

For information about submitting the Permanent Residency Card, see the Document Submission Page .

Resumes 

Resumes should only be used if you run out of space on the application. If you've accomplished so much your application can't handle it, this is what a resume is for. Struggling to figure out what belongs? We've got you covered with Accomplishment Tips .

Upload in the Applicant Information System

Official Test Scores

Texas A&M University is test optional and will not require ACT or SAT scores for freshman applicants. We encourage students who have test score to send them. The submission of test scores will not create any unfair advantage or disadvantage for those students who provide them.

For additional information regarding test scores, read our FAQs under "Test-Optional Admissions".

• You must send your scores through the testing agency.
• Your highest total score from a single test date will be considered for admission.
• SAT and ACT scores expire after five years.
• Optional essay/writing portion is not required.
• Allow 2-4 weeks for scores to be received.

Letters of Recommendation 

Once submitted, you will not be able to see your letters of recommendation. We will consider the first two letters received as part of your admission file.  Letters of recommendation should be uploaded via the Applicant Information System or sent through the mail .

When Can I Apply?

What happens after i apply, notification of decision.

We make admission decisions on an ongoing basis throughout an admission cycle. Applying early does not guarantee an early decision. Once a decision is released it will be posted in the Applicant Information System.

Top 10%: Students who qualify for Top 10% admission will typically receive a decision within three weeks of completing their admission file.

Students in Holistic Review: All students applying for spring admission will receive a decision by early December. Most students applying for fall admission will receive a decision between January 1 and late March.

Applicants who apply to the College of Engineering and have a complete admission file by the Early Action Deadline of October 15 will receive a communication regarding their admission decision by mid-December. The communication will notify the student of admission or deferral to the January-February decision timeline.

Admissions Decision Appeals 

Every applicant who was not admitted through automatic admission criteria to Texas A&M University has had their application file considered through an extensive holistic review  that considers both academic and non-academic factors . T he review process is ve ry thorough — therefore,  it is unusual for an admission decision to be reversed.

F or an appeal to have merit, it must bring to light new  and compelling academic and/or personal information as well as details pertaining to extenuating circumstances that were not addressed in the original application. The appeals process is not a re-review of an existing applicant file and appeals will not be  considered  from applicants who are not submitting new information.

Guidelines for Submitting an Appeal:

• You are required to speak with an  admissions representative  to have your appeal option “enabled.”
• You must submit the appeal by April 1. Appeals from parents/guardians or high school officials will not be accepted.
• Your appeal must be submitted  in AIS . Emails or mailed materials will not be accepted.
• Your appeal must present new and compelling information not included in your original application.
• Your appeal should include an explanation of why the new information was not submitted in your original application.
• Your appeal should include supporting documentation.
• You will be notified of your appeal decision in  AIS  no later than May 1st.
• You may only appeal once and the decision is final.

Basis for an Appeal:

• Grade change — an inaccurate grade was reported on your  Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) or  transcript thus impacting your GPA and class rank
• Medical condition — you failed to report a medical condition, illness or surgery which negatively impacted your academics and/or personal achievement s
• Extenuating life circumstance — you failed to report a life-changing circumstance (such as the death of a parent or financial hardship) that negatively impacted your academics and/or personal achievement s

Supporting Documentation:

• High school transcript showing grade change
• Documented letter from high school counselor referencing grade change
• Documented evidence from health care provider referencing medical condition, illness or surgery which shows the compelling reason why your academic s and/ or personal achievement s  were affected

Information Not Considered:

• Interest in attending Texas A&M
• Grades earned after admission decision or admission deadline
• Test scores received after admission decision or admission deadline
• Recent personal achievements, awards, honors etc.
• Interviews with admission representatives

Who is eligible to submit an appeal?

Any student who has received an admission decision from Texas A&M and can present new and compelling academic and/or personal information, including extenuating circumstances, that were not addressed in the original application. How do I submit an appeal?

Appeals are submitted  in AIS —  however, you must first contact an admissions representative at a  Prospective Student Center  to activate the appeal option. You will be asked to answer a series of questions to qualify your appeal. If you   present information that quali fies  for an appeal  as  outlined  abov e , the admissions representative will then enable your appeal. You will be required to submit your appeal along with any supporting documents through AIS. All documents should be submitted at the same time. What kind of situations can someone appeal?

You may appeal about a variety of things, including significant academic or personal achievements that were not disclosed  with  the original application. For an appeal to have merit there must be new and compelling information such as a grade change, medical condition or extenuating life circumstance.  You  are encouraged to submit any supporting information  you  feel will help the committee make an informed decision. Can I appeal if I was offered to participate in   TEAM ,   PSA or Engineering options?

You may appeal any admission decision if you meet the criteria to do so — however, since it may take some time for a final decision to be reached, it is not a good idea to put off any required paperwork necessary to participate in   TEAM ,   PSA  or Engineering options  if these are in any way a possibility you would consider. I have been admitted to another university. Should I wait for my appeal decision before accepting the other offer?

Since there is no guarantee that your appeal will be granted, it is always a good idea to have a backup plan. Most universities require students to accept their admission offer by May 1.  How long do I have to submit an appeal?

Appeals must be submitted by April 1. What happens after I submit an appeal?

After submitting your appeal, the committee will consider all new information and make a decision about your request. It’s important to remember that only new information will be considered. The appeals process is not a re-review of an existing file. Once a decision has been made, it is final. How long will it take to receive a decision?

The time it takes for a decision to be made can vary. In some cases, a decision may be reached within a couple of weeks. In other cases, decisions may involve questions that are more complex and so it may take longer. All students will be notified of a decision no later than May 1. Appeal decisions will be posted  in AIS . Who will make the decision?

All appeals are reviewed by an Admissions  Decisions  Appeals Committee  which is comprised o f representatives from Admissions, Financial Aid and the academic colleges . The committee will meet weekly or more often if deemed necessary. May I speak with someone on the Admissions Appeals Committee?

No, members of the Admissions Appeals Committee are not available to speak with applicants by phone or in person. Can someone submit an appeal on my behalf?

Appeals will only be accepted from the student, not a parent/guardian, teacher or alumni. What is the likelihood that my appeal will be granted?

Historically, few admission decisions have been changed through the appeals process. There is no guarantee that any appeal will be approved or that any specific factor will increase the odds for an appeal to be approved. Appeals are considered on a case - by case basis.

Tracking Your Application Status

After you submit your application you will receive an email with your Universal Identification Number (UIN) and instructions to access the Applicant Information System (AIS) at the Howdy Student Portal via the Applicant tab. Check regularly to make sure all your documents have been received.

Allow 2-3 weeks to process each document you submit. Documents you submit within one month of the deadline may not appear on your AIS checklist until after the deadline. Please bring any questions about your file to our attention immediately by clicking "Contact Us" in AIS.

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ACT Writing Tips: 15 Strategies to Raise Your Essay Score

ACT , ACT Writing

Whether you've never thought about ACT Writing strategies or have worked hard on the ACT essay, you can benefit from knowing more: about the essay itself, and what really matters when the graders are reading your essay.

In this article, we offer a number of ACT Writing tips as well as a foolproof template for putting them into practice.

ACT Essay Tips

The ACT essay is a very short assignment—you only get 40 minutes to write a full-fledged essay—and it can pass in a flash if you don't have a method for attacking it. It requires a very specific approach that's unlike the essays you've been writing for English class.

The goal of this approach is to cram in as many of the desired components as possible in the 40 minutes that you've got for the essay. We'll give you the four main elements the ACT asks for, the top three things they don't tell you, and a bulletproof template for your ACT Writing essay format. Here we go!

What ACT, Inc. Does Tell You: 4 Elements to Remember

ACT, Inc. explains the main components of the successful ACT Essay in its scoring criteria . Here they are, condensed and explained:

#1: Ideas & Analysis: A 12-scoring essay includes "an argument that critically engages with multiple perspectives on the given issue. The argument's thesis reflects nuance and precision in thought and purpose. The argument establishes and employs an insightful context for analysis of the issue and its perspectives. The analysis examines implications, complexities and tensions, and/or underlying values and assumptions."

In other words, answer the question that's in the prompt, make it very, very clear what your perspective is and analyze how your perspective relates to at least one other perspective .

Ideas and Analysis is the hardest domain to master; it's tough to do everything you need to do well at all, much less in 40 minutes. The main thing is that you want to show that you understand as many sides of the issue as possible. You can do this by discussing those sides of the issue, why people might have those opinions, and whether those opinions are logical or not.

It's fine to copy the exact words from the prompt into your thesis statement—in fact, this guarantees that the graders will see that your thesis is there and on topic. You must, however, make it obvious which side you are arguing for . If you can, it's great to put the argument in terms of a larger debate—we'll discuss that later.

#2: Development & Support : In a 12-scoring essay, "[d]evelopment of ideas and support for claims deepen insight and broaden context. An integrated line of skillful reasoning and illustration effectively conveys the significance of the argument. Qualifications and complications enrich and bolster ideas and analysis."

Development & Support is another area that can be hard for students to grasp. The bottom line is that you need to fully explain every point you make. If you don't have time to explain it in two to four sentences, leave it out (unless it's the only way you can get in a comparison of your perspective with another perspective). Make sure to either explain your thinking and reasoning or use specific examples to illustrate your points.

#3: Organization : A 12-scoring essay "exhibits a skillful organizational strategy. The response is unified by a controlling idea or purpose, and a logical progression of ideas increases the effectiveness of the writer's argument. Transitions between and within paragraphs strengthen the relationships among ideas."

In short, you need to give each idea one to two paragraphs. If a logical organization for your points occurs to you (for example, if Point 1 depends on Point 2, you'd put Point 2 first), use it. If not, just list your points, allotting a paragraph for each one. A transition that reflects your logic just means tying one point to another somehow, and this is ideal.

The ACT essay scoring system won't penalize you too heavily for a "First, Second, Third" type of organization, so if you just say "My first reason…," and "Second…," that's better than no transitions. The intro and conclusion should make the same general points, and if you mention a larger context in the intro, mention it again in the conclusion.

#4: Language Use: A 12-scoring essay uses language in a way that "enhances the argument. Word choice is skillful and precise. Sentence structures are consistently varied and clear. Stylistic and register choices, including voice and tone, are strategic and effective. While a few minor errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics may be present, they do not impede understanding."

Language Use can be the hardest area for students to improve in (particularly if English is not their native language). "Word choice is skillful and precise" does include using fancy vocabulary, but it also means not repeating yourself and using the advanced vocabulary correctly. The essay graders aren't going to be impressed by words like "dogmatic" and "provincial" if you just throw them in and hope for the best; if you're not sure about the usage of a more advanced word, stick with the simpler one.

Using "consistently varied and clear" sentence structures doesn't just mean not starting every sentence the same way (e.g. "Machines are helpful to humans. Machines can also cause problems. Machines are the answer to our future"). You also need to make sure your sentences are clear and further your logic (rather than making it more difficult to understand). As with word choice (and organization), it's better to be clear than to be fancy.

If in the moment you find that your brain freezes and your sentences are all coming out the same with simple words, don't sweat it. Adding in more advanced vocabulary or switching up sentence structures is something you can fix when you revise your essay in the last two to four minutes of the essay section.

What ACT, Inc. Doesn't Tell You: 3 Secrets

Even though the ACT essay has some clear published guidelines, there are a few secrets that most students don't know and that can give you a major advantage on the test.

These are facts that ACT, Inc. doesn't want to be too well-known because it helps us develop ACT Writing strategies that may give us an edge over people who haven't prepared.

#1: You Don't Need to Know the Facts

You can make up whatever information you need to support your point. Really. As with the tip above, if you know the real facts, that's great (since the grader will probably know them too), but it's not required.

This might sound crazy. You could write about how Al Gore invented the dishwasher, and the ACT graders are not allowed to penalize you. Why is this?

ACT, Inc. doesn't have the resources to do fact-checking on every single essay. With over a million students taking the test every year, graders only have a few minutes to put a score of 1-6 to each of the four essay scoring domains. They can't check whether Martin Luther King was born in 1929 or 1925.

Thus, ACT essay scoring uses a simpler rule—all statements are taken as truth. The important point is that the evidence needs to support your thesis.

(Of course, ACT, Inc. doesn't want people to know about this—that would make the ACT essay sound silly.)

If you're short on examples to prove a point, make up something realistic-sounding (you can even pretend a newspaper or politician said something they didn't), and slap it in there. It's much better than trying to write a vague paragraph without concrete evidence.

#2: You Should Write More Than a Page

This is one of the most important ACT Writing tips. There is a strong relationship between essay length and score—the longer your essay, the better your score. In a short essay, it's difficult for you to develop your points well enough to earn a decent score.

Really, you should write a page and a half if at all possible. Although ACT, Inc. never explicitly mentions that length matters in ACT essay scoring , it does. And if you can write more than a page and a half without repeating yourself or digressing from your point, you'll be in really good shape.

#3: Your First Paragraph and Conclusion Matter More Than the Middle

The introduction and conclusion are the "bookends" of the essay: they hold it together and are guaranteed to be read more closely than the rest of the essay.

ACT graders have to read a lot of essays very quickly, and they give most of them a 3 or a 4 in each domain. The fastest way for them to score an essay is to find the thesis (to make sure that it's there, that it answers the prompt, and that the rest of the essay supports it) and then skim the first and last paragraphs.

Here's why: if a student's introduction and conclusion paragraphs are well-written and logical, it's likely the rest of the essay will be too. By reading these parts, the grader can usually tell with confidence what the score will be. They'll scan the middle to make sure it makes sense, but they probably won't read every word as closely.

On the other hand, if you don't have time to write an introduction or conclusion, you will be heavily penalized. It'll be hard to score above an 8 without an introduction and conclusion, particularly if you don't make your thesis, or point of view, clear in the first paragraph. This might be the most important ACT essay tip we can give you.

A strong ACT writing strategy includes preparing enough time to write and revise your introduction and conclusion paragraphs, as we explain below.

Key Strategy: How to Write A Successful ACT Essay in 40 Minutes

Because you only have 40 minutes to write the ACT essay, you need to have a game plan before you start the test. Here's a step by step guide on how to write an effective ACT essay.

Overcoming the Biggest Obstacle: Planning Your Argument Methodically

One of the things that students often find hardest about the essay is quickly thinking of support for the thesis. But it can be done in a simple, methodical way, which we explain below. Let's start with a sample prompt.

Intelligent Machines

Many of the goods and services we depend on daily are now supplied by intelligent, automated machines rather than human beings. Robots build cars and other goods on assembly lines, where once there were human workers. Many of our phone conversations are now conducted not with people but with sophisticated technologies. We can now buy goods at a variety of stores without the help of a human cashier. Automation is generally seen as a sign of progress, but what is lost when we replace humans with machines? Given the accelerating variety and prevalence of intelligent machines, it is worth examining the implications and meaning of their presence in our lives.

Read and carefully consider these perspectives. Each suggests a particular way of thinking about the increasing presence of intelligent machines.

Perspective One: What we lose with the replacement of people by machines is some part of our own humanity. Even our mundane daily encounters no longer require from us basic courtesy, respect, and tolerance for other people.

Perspective Two: Machines are good at low-skill, repetitive jobs, and at high-speed, extremely precise jobs. In both cases they work better than humans. This efficiency leads to a more prosperous and progressive world for everyone.

Perspective Three: Intelligent machines challenge our long-standing ideas about what humans are or can be. This is good because it pushes both humans and machines toward new, unimagined possibilities.

Write a unified, coherent essay about the increasing presence of intelligent machines. In your essay, be sure to:

• clearly state your own perspective on the issue and analyze the relationship between your perspective and at least one other perspective
• develop and support your ideas with reasoning and examples
• organize your ideas clearly and logically
• communicate your ideas effectively in standard written English

Your perspective may be in full agreement with any of the others, in partial agreement, or wholly different.

In the prompt above, the ACT gives you three viewpoints so that you have a starting point for ideas to consider in your discussion of various perspectives. But you'll need to elaborate on these as well. Let's look at the viewpoints this prompt gives us.

• Conservative: "Intelligent machines lead to problems, which is bad."
• Utilitarian: "Intelligent machines allow us to be more efficient, which is good."
• Progressive: "Intelligent machines lead to progress, which is good."

Supporting each viewpoint is a slew of possible reasons, and these are what you want to lay out clearly in your essay. You can, of course, choose any side of the argument, but one is usually easier to argue than the other (because it is opposite the other two given perspectives, which gives you more opportunity to compare and contrast).

For this prompt, it's easier to argue against intelligent machines than to argue for their efficiency or progress, so we'll look at potential support for the "conservative" argument, which is that "Intelligent machines lead to problems."

To argue against any change, we can point out its assumptions and how they are false, or its consequences and how they are bad:

• it assumes that machines lead to progress [assumption made by perspective 3]
• it assumes that machines allow us to be more efficient [assumption made by perspective 2]
• it assumes that the benefits machines give to us outweigh the negatives
• it could lead to progress in some areas, but also to new problems caused by that progress
• it could let us be more efficient in some ways, but end up creating more
• it would hurt us more than it would help because people would end up becoming less courteous and respectful to and tolerant of other people [perspective 1]

This method works for any argument. If you find yourself supporting the proposal in the prompt, like that a right to avoid health risks is a more important freedom than the right to do whatever you want, then you just need to think of ways it would be positive. That can be much simpler. But you can still use the assumptions-and-consequences method above for the paragraph in which you address at least one other perspective.

The Golden Essay Template

This is a tried and true structure for earning a great score on the ACT essay. Just by following this template and keeping in mind the ACT writing tips above, you're pretty much guaranteed a 6 or higher out of 12. Do a decent job and you'll easily get an 8 or higher. Here are a few real ACT prompts to keep in mind as we go through the steps:

• Intelligent machines : they're not good, they're good and practical, or they're good and lead to progress.
• Public health and individual freedom : freedom is more important than physical health, society should strive for the greatest good for the most people, or the right to avoid health risks is more important than individual freedom.

Time: 8-10 minutes

#1 : Decide on your thesis , choosing one of the three sides. You can try to form your own, fourth perspective, but since you have to compare your perspective with at least one other perspective, you might as well argue for one of given perspectives and save some time for writing.

#2 : Quickly brainstorm two or three reasons or examples that support your thesis.

#3 : Brainstorm counterarguments for or analyses of at least one other perspective and your responses.

#4 : Organize your essay. Make sure you order your points in a way that makes sense.

#5 : Check your time . Try to have 30 minutes left at this point so you have enough time to write. If you don't, just keep in mind that you might have to cut out one of your supporting points.

Time: 25-28 minutes

• Write your introduction. If you can think of an interesting first sentence that brings your thesis into a larger discussion (say, of how intelligent machines have changed the way people interact with each other), start with that.
• Narrow down from the larger context to your specific response to the question (your thesis), which should be at or near the end of the first paragraph.
• It can be helpful to the reader to have your reasons and examples "previewed" in the introduction if it fits in well.

#2: Paragraph 2: Transitions & Opposing Perspective.

• When you start paragraph 2, try to think of a first sentence that refers back to the first paragraph.
• "In contrast to [my perspective], some people claim that [other perspective]…" is a simple example of an effective way to transition into the second paragraph. If you're arguing for perspective one for the intelligent machines prompt, for instance, you'd replace the first part of the sentence with, "In contrast to the assumption that intelligent machines will inevitably lead to problems," and replace [other perspective] with the perspective you're comparing to your own.
• Then, address a perspective opposing yours and why its supporters are wrong or misguided. In the example about intelligent machines above (where we've chosen to argue Perspective 1), you could argue against perspective 2 or 3 (or some other clearly defined perspective) in this paragraph.

#3: Body Paragraphs (those remaining before the conclusion):

• Introduce your first reason or example in support of the perspective you'll be discussing.
• In 3-5 sentences, explain your reasoning as to how this perspective relates to your own (using explanations of your thinking or specific examples to support the point).
• Connect your example to the thesis and then state that it supports your thesis.
• Check your time . Try to have 7 minutes left by this point.

#4: Conclusion

• (Optional) Relate your two or three examples back to your thesis. Add one or two sentences if you want.
• End with a restatement of your thesis or a return to your first lines to wrap up the essay.

Time: 2-4 minutes

Hopefully, you still have 2-4 minutes to read over your essay. In this time, you can do several things.

#1: You can, of course, correct mistakes.

#2: You can replace dull words with fancier words.

#3: You can make sure that your introduction and conclusion "match" by stating the same thesis (in different words, of course).

Notice the two time-checking steps (in the Planning and the Body Paragraphs stages). It's very easy to get caught in the planning stage and run out of time on your actual essay, which is easy to avoid if you practice checking your time.

If you have to make a choice between explaining a perspective or writing a conclusion paragraph, always choose the explanation. You can get by with a short sentence for a conclusion as long as you have a clear thesis in your introduction, but if you leave out the analysis of the relationship between your perspective and one of the ACT's perspectives in your essay, you'll lose a lot of points.

Now you practice. Print out the template above, consult our ACT Essay Prompts Article (or think of any controversial issue in the world today), and get to work. You may find that many issues can be argued using the same reasoning or examples.

For instance, the argument that the benefits of the changes happening in the world don't necessarily outweigh the problems they create can apply to many of the new ACT prompts. You can research concrete information to support this kind of useful argument, like a newspaper article about how the Industrial Revolution led to increased environmental destruction.

More like Industrial Re-POLL-ution, am I right?

Remember: the more you practice, the easier it gets, as you learn how to reuse information to suit different purposes and your brain becomes used to thinking in this way.

What's Next?

Read more about the new ACT Writing Test and how to score a perfect score on your ACT essay .

Want more in-depth guides? Check out our step-by-step guide to writing top-scoring ACT essay as well as a complete breakdown of the new ACT Writing Scoring Rubric .

Hungry for more practice ACT Writing prompts? Look no further than our article containing links to all the freely available official ACT Writing prompts that have been released so far, as well as bonus prompts I constructed.

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Laura graduated magna cum laude from Wellesley College with a BA in Music and Psychology, and earned a Master's degree in Composition from the Longy School of Music of Bard College. She scored 99 percentile scores on the SAT and GRE and loves advising students on how to excel in high school.

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Undergraduate Admissions

Freshman Admission Criteria

Are you ready to take your next giant leap?

Are you academically prepared to succeed in your desired academic program? Are you a competitive candidate in the context of the overall pool of applicants for the program based on available space?

Purdue applications are reviewed individually and holistically for both West Lafayette and Indianapolis locations with these two primary questions in mind.  There is no definitive answer to 'what does it take to be admitted?'

You can use our Freshman Class Profile Page to see “middle 50%” ranges for GPAs and SAT or ACT tests. 

Those that accept their offer of admission to Purdue must have a high school diploma or receive a recognized equivalent of a high school diploma (e.g., GED) unless they are 18 years of age or older. Purdue requires that students submit proof of high school graduation. Purdue will review to confirm that enrollment conditions have been met.

Here's what you need to know when preparing for admission to and success at Purdue:

Complete your application.

For most first-time college students (future freshman) a complete application includes:

• The application itself
• Purdue-specific questions from the application
• Self-reported high school grades
• Self-reported ACT or SAT test scores*
• The application fee (or qualified fee waiver)

Students apply to Purdue using the Common Application.  You will have the opportunity to select the primary location you would like: Purdue University West Lafayette or Purdue University in Indianapolis, as well as your primary major. You will also have the option to select an alternate location and major on the application.

Not all majors will be available at both locations, and you should select an alternate choice only if you are truly interested in the program. Changing majors or locations is never guaranteed.

This application also requires you to provide an essay and answer Purdue-specific questions. View  current Common App essay questions .

We accept SAT or ACT scores and have no preference on which test is taken. You may report the best scores from across different tests. If able, you should take one or the other in the spring of your junior year in preparation for the November 1 Early Action deadline that encompasses scholarship consideration.

When you apply, you are able to report best components from different test dates. School codes for Purdue West Lafayette: ACT – 1230; SAT – 1631.

*Purdue University expects applicants to have SAT or ACT scores. Recognizing that in some exceptional cases, applicants may not have been able to take a test, we allow submission of applications in those cases. 

International undergraduate applicants whose native language is not English will be evaluated for English language proficiency during the application review process. The most common and preferred way for applicants to provide evidence of their English proficiency is through an English proficiency exam .

Don't Miss Deadlines

Meet the minimum requirements and be competitive.

You should meet or exceed these minimum high school expectations.

• Math - 4 years
• English - 4 years
• Lab science - 3 years ( for engineering applicants, chemistry experience is expected ; for nursing, pharmacy and veterinary nursing, one year must be chemistry and one year must be biology)
• Social studies - 3 years
• World language - 2 years

Visit the  high school course requirements page for more specific information.

If you are an Indiana resident, we strongly encourage you to pursue the Academic Honors Diploma. While this does not guarantee admission to Purdue, those who earn this diploma are generally stronger candidates and better prepared for the academic rigor of Purdue classes.

Admission to Purdue is competitive and we’ll use the following factors to evaluate your application:

• High school course expectations
• Overall grades in academic coursework
• Grades related to intended major
• Strength of your overall high school curriculum
• Trends in achievement (If you have weaker grades/courses, were they earlier in your high school record?)
• Grades in academic core coursework (English, academic math, laboratory science, foreign language, social studies)
• SAT or ACT scores (if provided)
• Proof of English proficiency (for citizens of non-English speaking countries)
• Ability to be successful in intended major
• Essay and answers to Purdue questions
• Personal background and experiences
• Information provided by your high school
• Time of year you apply
• Space availability in the desired program
• Check Your Application Status
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• Maximizing Scholarship Consideration
• Find Your Admissions Counselor
• High School Course Requirements

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• Cost and Aid
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• Applying to Clemson Overview
• First-Year Application Process
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Apply to Clemson as a First-Year Student

Ready to join the Clemson Family? Apply now.

You are considered a first-year applicant if you are currently enrolled in high school or have not enrolled in or earned credit at another college or university following high school graduation.

Application Schedule and Deadlines

Fall and summer semester enrollment.

Spring Semester Enrollment

October 15 is the deadline to submit your application for Early Action consideration. November 1 is the last date to submit any outstanding items listed on your checklist in your Clemson admissions portal and to switch your preference on having SAT/ACT scores considered in the admissions review for Early Action.

January 1 is the deadline to submit your application for Regular Decision and scholarship consideration. January 10 is the last date to submit any outstanding items listed on your checklist in your Clemson admissions portal and to switch your preference on having SAT/ACT scores considered in the admissions review for Regular Decision, and for scholarship consideration.

How to Apply to Clemson

Review important dates and deadlines.

Submit your application through the Clemson Application , Coalition Application, Powered by Scoir or the Common Application . No preference is given to any application in the admission review process.

There is a nonrefundable $70 application fee. Clemson accepts all major credit cards. If you cannot afford to pay the application fee, please fill out the financial sections of the application completely. This information will determine if you meet the level of need we can approve by policy for a fee waiver. If you have other hardships concerning the application fee, please reach out to the counselor for your state .

Clemson only accepts official test scores sent by the testing agency. Clemson superscores both the SAT and ACT.

• Clemson’s institutional code for the SAT is 5111.
• Clemson’s institutional code for the ACT is 3842.

Clemson University requires first-year applicants to self-report their high school transcripts. The Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) is an applicant-completed list of courses and corresponding grades that replaces the high school transcripts used by the Office of Admissions during the application review process.  Complete your Clemson SRAR  before applying or access it via your Clemson admissions portal.

Students who are admitted to Clemson will be required to send official transcripts prior to enrollment.

Are You a Tiger? These Are the Qualities We Look For.

Clemson tigers are hungry for academic challenges..

One of the clearest indicators of your fit at Clemson is your academic performance in high school. We examine your GPA, class rank and the rigor of the classes you took to gauge your ability to rise to academic challenges.

Most of our applicants have competitive GPAs and present transcripts with college preparatory, honors and AP coursework based on what is offered by their high school.

All applicants for first-year admission should have completed the following courses:

Recommended High School Curriculum

*Students who have completed fewer than three credits of the same foreign language are encouraged to apply. Select majors may have additional requirements.

Does Clemson have a preference for AP, IB or dual-enrollment courses?

AP, IB and dual enrollment offerings vary widely from school to school, so we look at your coursework in the context of what was offered at your high school. Future Clemson Tigers shine by accepting the challenge when AP, IB or dual enrollment classes are offered in high school. Visit Transfer Course Equivalency to gauge how many of your AP, IB and dual-enrollment courses translate to Clemson credit, or view the IB Credit Chart and AP Credit Chart to learn more.

How does Clemson evaluate standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)?

Clemson has adopted a test-optional policy. Applicants are not required to submit a standardized test score to be considered for admission to Clemson.

If a student chooses that test scores should be used, the scores must be submitted electronically by the respective testing agency. We will automatically update your application file with any new test scores we receive by our application deadlines. Clemson does not require the SAT or ACT essay.

Clemson University super-scores both the SAT and the ACT. For the SAT, this means that the overall total SAT score will then be derived by taking the highest of the evidence-based reading and writing/math scores.

For the ACT, this means that we consider a student’s highest ACT section (or subtest) scores regardless of test date. The super composite ACT score is calculated as the average of the best ACT English, Reading, Math, and Science subject scores.

You can view our First-Year Student Profile to learn more about test score ranges for admitted students.

What role does your choice of major play?

Choice of major and residency play an important part in the evaluation process. Because some majors attract large numbers of applicants or have limited classroom space, admission requirements may vary. In addition, as a public institution, we give South Carolina residents priority in the evaluation process.

Students are encouraged to select two different intended majors. If you are not admissible in your first choice, we automatically consider your second. Selecting the same major twice is not recommended.

Special Major Considerations

An audition is required for students interested in pursuing music or theatre concentrations . For more information, visit the Performing Arts Department .

Clemson Tigers are engaged in their communities.

Many people have hobbies and interests. Clemson Tigers have passions and service mindsets that guide them to leadership roles in clubs, organizations, sports teams, volunteer activities, the arts, academic clubs and part-time jobs. Let us know about how you led your team to a championship win, the research you’ve conducted or the job you’ve excelled in while maintaining an excellent GPA.

Clemson Tigers come from a variety of backgrounds.

We are looking for students who bring varied experiences, knowledge and talents to Clemson. We understand that not everyone has the same opportunities. When reviewing applications, your coursework, activities and curriculum are examined in the context of what is offered in your high school.

Clemson Tigers have unique stories to tell.

We want to hear about the skills, experiences, challenges and triumphs that have shaped you. Upload an optional Personal Statement with your application to let us know if there are specific circumstances that impacted your academic performance for a specific period of time or in a particular class. We want to hear your story.

After You Apply

Here’s what you need to do after submitting your application..

We will provide updates on the status of your application via email, but you can also view your application status and updates by visiting your Clemson admissions portal . When you are accessing the Clemson admissions portal for the first time, please reference your email for log-in instructions.

Submit your Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR)

Clemson University requires first-year applicants to self-report their high school transcripts. Students who are admitted to Clemson will be required to send official transcripts prior to enrollment. After submitting your application, a link to the SRAR system will be available in your Admissions Portal.

Learn more about how to complete your Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR)

Submit Standardized Test Scores (Optional)

Complete the fafsa.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available in the fall. The amount of need-related aid for which you are eligible is determined by the information you supply annually on the FAFSA. To be considered for need-based scholarships, applicants must also submit the FAFSA to the federal processor by March 1.

Explore Financial Aid Options

There is no separate application process for the majority of scholarships and aid at Clemson. Students who want to be considered for scholarships must apply for admission by January 1 and complete their application file by January 10.

Please contact the Office of Student Financial Aid for additional information. Students will receive an email notification about their financial aid award package in the spring. If additional aid is needed, there are federal and private loan options or a Tuition Payment Plan available.

Need to edit your application?

If you need to change your major, edit your personal information, change your application term or withdraw your application, please visit your Clemson admissions portal .

Decision Types

Admitted first-years for Fall have until May 1 to choose whether or not to enroll. Students admitted to Fall may opt in to the Summer term if they choose.

Summer Admit

Some students are admitted to the Summer term. Students offered this decision type have the option to enroll through one of the following pathways:

• Clemson Summer Start
• Global Start
• PEER & WISE

Students have until May 1 to choose whether or not to enroll.

Bridge to Clemson

Students admitted to the Bridge to Clemson program will begin their Clemson experience by taking courses at Tri-County Technical College for their first year.

January Admit

Students admitted to the Spring semester will enroll at Clemson in January. Students may choose to take courses at another institution during the Fall semester and enroll as a transfer student. If students do not take courses during the Fall semester, they will enroll as a first-year student.

A limited number of students will be offered a place on Clemson’s waitlist. Students should carefully review their decision letter for information on how to express interest in the waitlist.

We encourage students who receive this decision to review our transfer admission guidelines and consider transferring to Clemson in the future.

New Opportunity: Global Start

If you receive a “Fall Admit” or “Clemson Summer Start” admission decision, you are eligible to participate in Global Start! This program enables you to study abroad the summer before your first Fall semester at Clemson.

Explore Global Start >>

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Yale Daily News

Yale drops SAT, ACT essay requirements

Staff Reporter

Yale will no longer require applicants to submit essay scores from standardized tests, starting with high schoolers applying for admission to the class of 2023.

The University announced the new policy on Friday in an email to high school counselors. In the letter, Quinlan emphasized that students who do not take the essay portion of the SAT or the ACT “will not be at a disadvantage” in the admissions process.

Since the launch of the redesigned SAT test in March 2016 and the revamped ACT writing section in September 2015, many universities across the country have reevaluated their testing requirements in an effort to make the college application process easier and less costly for students. By making the submission of essay scores optional, Yale joins a number of peer institutions that have enacted similar policies in recent years, including Harvard, Dartmouth and Columbia.

Yale’s decision leaves just 26 colleges across the country that still require applicants to submit scores from the essay sections of the SAT and ACT, according to the Princeton Review.

Quinlan wrote in the email that he hopes the new policy will eliminate a potential financial barrier to applying to Yale.

In recent years, many high schools across the country have begun allowing students to take the SAT or ACT during the school day for free — but in some states, such as Connecticut, the in-school tests do not include the essay portion. If students opt to retake the test at their own expense, the essay portion costs an additional $14, while the writing section of the ACT costs $16.50 more.

“We hope [the new policy] will enable more students who participate in school-day administrations of the SAT or ACT to apply to Yale without needing to register for an additional test,” Quinlan said in the email.

In the email, Quinlan also announced that Yale will now allow students applying from American high schools to self-report standardized test scores in their applications, rather than paying testing agencies to submit the scores. The agencies send scores for free to the first four colleges students apply to. However, each additional SAT score report costs $12 to send, and each additional ACT report costs $13.

The University will still require all applicants to submit official test scores from the testing agencies if they are admitted and choose to enroll at the University, Quinlan wrote in the email. Any discrepancies between the self-reported scores and official scores “may result in the withdrawal of an offer of admission,” he wrote.

The University hopes that allowing applicants to self-report testing scores in their applications “will remove a barrier for students for whom sending official test scores represents a financial burden,” Quinlan wrote in the email.

Yale piloted the self-reporting policy this year with students who applied to the University through QuestBridge, a national nonprofit that connects high-achieving, low-income students with colleges and other resources. The pilot had “very positive results,” Quinlan wrote.

Almost 50 colleges across the country now allow applicants to self-report test scores in their applications, including Columbia and University of Chicago, according to Inside Higher Ed.