Cornell University, known for its academic rigor and diverse community, sets high standards for its applicants. Among the various elements of the college application process, standardized testing plays a significant role. This article delves into Cornell-specific ACT requirements and Cornell ACT scores. For more insights, also explore our article on Cornell’s SAT expectations.
What is the average ACT score at Cornell?
Reflecting its commitment to academic excellence, Cornell’s average composite ACT score is around 34, out of a possible 36 points. This is notably higher than the national average of approximately 19.5. Meanwhile, the 25th percentile ACT score is 33, while the 75th percentile score is a strong 35. This means that the lowest 25% of scorers achieved a 33 or below, while the highest 25% achieved perfect or nearly perfect scores. These figures highlight Cornell’s high standards, but also indicate that there is no specific score requirement for admission.
What is the average ACT English score at Cornell?
The average ACT English score at Cornell ranges between 34 and 36, with the 25th and 75th percentiles falling at the ends of this range. This demonstrates that Cornell students excel in the English section of the ACT, with the majority achieving perfect or near-perfect scores.
What is the average ACT Math score at Cornell?
The average ACT Math score at Cornell falls between the 25th and 75th percentiles of 32 and 35. Therefore, an ACT Math score of 34 would place you in the middle 50% of scorers at Cornell. While these scores are slightly lower than the English section scores, they are still quite high. However, as with other sections, there is no specific benchmark that applicants must meet.
What are Cornell’s ACT requirements?
Cornell has updated their testing policies to require first-year applicants to submit SAT or ACT exam scores. This means that you must sit for the SAT and/or the ACT and send your scores to the Cornell admissions team.
Applicants are welcome to self-report their ACT scores on their applications. However, those who are admitted and plan to enroll are required to submit official score records. In addition, Cornell does not require the ACT writing section. More information regarding Cornell’s ACT requirements can be found on their Application Requirements webpage.
What percentage of Cornell applicants submit the ACT?
At Cornell, 14% of admitted applicants submitted ACT scores. 37% submitted SAT scores, and 49% omitted standardized test scores from their application. While the SAT remains popular among accepted Cornell applicants, there is no advantage to submitting one test over the other.
Does Cornell superscore the ACT?
Cornell superscores the ACT, so applicants’ results will be combined to highlight their highest subsections. That said, their Score Choice policy is “All Scores,” so applicants must submit all test results.
What’s a good ACT score for Cornell?
Cornell does not have specific ACT score requirements or cutoffs, so there is no one score that an applicant must achieve for admission. However, most admitted Cornell students have highly competitive scores. Aiming for a score at or ideally above the 25th percentile can be considered a “good” score for Cornell.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 33 | 34 | 35 |
| English | 34 | 35 | 36 |
| Math | 32 | 34 | 35 |
Can I get into Cornell with a low ACT score?
Getting into Cornell with a low ACT score is challenging, but not impossible. An ACT score in the lower quartile is still quite high. In addition, strong academic performance, extracurricular achievements, and well-written supplemental essays may compensate for a lower ACT score. Therefore, while scores are important, they are not the sole determining factor for admission to Cornell.
When should I take the ACT for Cornell?
For students applying during their senior year, taking the ACT during the preceding junior spring semester is ideal. However, for Early Decision applicants, scores can be submitted in the early fall of their senior year. Regular Decision applicants can submit scores from tests as late as the December ACT, but it is recommended to submit scores as early as possible.
What is Cornell’s ACT code?
Cornell’s ACT code for submitting official test scores is 2726.
Given that Cornell requires all applicants to submit standardized test scores, applicants must focus on preparing for the SAT or ACT. However, choosing one exam or the other will not disadvantage an applicant. Ultimately, whether to take the SAT or the ACT is a personal decision for each student to make based on their strengths, priorities, and goals. If you’re considering the SAT, be sure to check out our article on Cornell SAT scores!
