Emory University, a prestigious institution known for its applied learning and research opportunities, sets high expectations for its applicants. This article explores Emory’s ACT scores and requirements, so that prospective students can understand what it takes to gain admission. Be sure to check out our other post that discusses Emory’s SAT stats and requirements!
What is the average ACT score at Emory?
In keeping with its reputation for academic excellence, the average composite ACT score at Emory is around 33 out of the maximum possible 36 points. This is significantly higher than the national average of about 21. Meanwhile, the 25th percentile score among admitted students is a 32, and the 75th percentile composite score is a 34.
From these statistics, we can see that the lowest 25% of scorers achieved a 32 or below. Further, the highest 25% of scorers had a 34 or above. These numbers demonstrate the high standards Emory holds for its students. However, the range also shows that there is no single number that applicants must achieve for admission.
What are Emory’s ACT requirements?
Emory University has extended its test-optional policy for prospective students applying in the 2024-25 admission cycle. This means that submitting standardized test scores is completely optional, and students will not be disadvantaged if they choose not to submit them. Applicants are encouraged to submit any materials they believe will strengthen their application, including test scores if available.
In addition, Emory accepts self-reported test scores. Self-reporting scores will ensure that the admissions officers receive your scores in time to evaluate your application. Although the admissions officers may look at new scores if they come in after the deadline, there is no guarantee.
That said, admitted students who choose to enroll must submit official scores. These can be sent directly from the testing agency, uploaded by a high school counselor to Slate.org, or emailed by a high school counselor to admission@emory.edu in the form of a notated official transcript.
In accordance with their current test-optional policy, Emory does not require the Writing section of the ACT. If students want to submit Writing section scores along with their multiple choice section scores, however, they are more than welcome to do so.
For more details about Emory’s admissions process, visit their Application Requirements webpage.
What percent of Emory applicants submit the ACT?
Among students admitted to Emory, roughly 41% of applicants submitted SAT scores. Meanwhile, 24% submitted ACT scores, and the remaining approximate 35% did not submit SAT or ACT scores.
From these statistics, we can see that the SAT remains a popular choice among Emory applicants, with nearly twice as many students opting to submit results from the SAT as the ACT. Still, there is no advantage to choosing one test over the other, or to going test-optional. Note that none of the choices exceeds 50% of the admitted student body.
Should I go test-optional?
While submitting a high SAT or ACT score to Emory can strengthen an application, Emory’s test-optional policy ensures that students without scores are not penalized. If you perform well on the test, submitting your score can boost your application. Specifically, if you achieve scores at or above the 50th percentile for students admitted to Emory, then your scores will likely strengthen your application.
However, if you feel your scores are not reflective of your abilities, you can choose to omit them without penalty. For some students, test-taking is neither a priority nor a strength. In those cases, going test-optional might be the right decision.
In any case, remember that Emory’s admissions committee values many aspects of students’ applications, including academic performance, extracurricular achievement, and supplemental essays. As a result, test scores won’t necessarily make or break your application. Rather, your application is considered as a whole. Learn more about Emory’s testing policies on their FAQs webpage.
Does Emory superscore the ACT?
Emory superscores both the SAT and the ACT. For the ACT, subject scores can be evaluated from different test dates in order to create a superscore. This means that Emory will consider your highest individual section scores across multiple test dates to create your best possible composite score. In order for your ACT results to be superscored, you must submit all test dates containing subscores that you would like the admissions officers to consider.
What’s a good ACT score for Emory?
While Emory does not have specific ACT score requirements, aiming for a score within or above the 25th to 75th percentiles will position your application for success. Specifically, that means striving for a 32 or above for your Emory ACT score. If you achieve a composite score of 32 or above, then you are likely competitive for Emory. Inevitably, a “good” score for Emory is quite high.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 32 | 33 | 34 |
Can I get into Emory with a low ACT?
Getting into Emory with a low ACT score is not impossible, especially since Emory is now test-optional. An ACT score on the lower end of Emory’s score range will still be quite high: the lowest quarter of Emory ACT scores still reach toward a strong 32. With this in mind, it would be in the applicant’s best interest to aim for at least the lower quartile score of 32, if not higher.
Even with a score below Emory’s average, you can still achieve admission. Academic performance, extracurricular achievement, and supplemental essays all play an important role in application outcomes. For instance, a student with a low ACT score who omits to submit their scores and instead uses their Emory application to highlight extracurricular strengths may fare better than an applicant with a 34 on the ACT but little else to recommend them. Therefore, while standardized testing can be an important tool in the application process, it is not the only thing a student should focus on. Devoting time and energy to extracurricular projects and interests, as well as schoolwork, is arguably more important for test-optional applications like Emory’s.
Read more about these requirements on Emory’s Standardized Exam Policies webpage.
When should I take the ACT for Emory?
The junior spring of high school preceding college application deadlines is considered an ideal time to take standardized tests for college admissions. Doing so will allow you to retake the ACT if needed.
For students applying via Early Decision I, scores from November exams of the applicant’s senior year are typically the latest scores accepted. Scholar Programs applicants must take their last ACT by early December. Early Decision II applicants must not submit test scores from exams taken later than January 1 of their senior year. Lastly, Regular Decision applicants should take the ACT in January of their senior year at the latest. Scores from February exams from an applicant’s senior year are not considered.
International students should take the test as early as possible to accommodate potential delays in score reporting.
Read more about these requirements on Emory’s Standardized Exam Policies webpage.
What is Emory’s ACT code?
Emory’s ACT code for submitting official test scores is 0810.
While Emory no longer requires applicants to submit ACT or SAT test scores, the standards for those who do choose to submit scores are still quite high. Choosing not to take the exams or to omit scores from an application will not harm an applicant, but sending a good score can only help. Ultimately, the decision of whether to take and submit exam scores is a personal decision to be evaluated in the context of an applicant’s strengths, goals, and priorities. If you are considering the SAT instead, be sure to check out our Emory SAT Breakdown!
