Colleges Accepting a 23 ACT Score
These colleges admit students with an ACT score of 23. Browse the list and then click to see your full chances of admission.
A 23 ACT score is a solid starting point for college admissions and can be competitive at many colleges, especially when paired with steady grades, a good mix of courses, and a complete application. Use this page to browse schools where students with a 23 have been admitted, then click any college to see your full chances of admission, typical score ranges, and likely cost after aid.
Need the basics first? Read our ACT overview.
Is a 23 ACT Score Good?
A 23 is generally considered slightly above average, and it can be a workable score for a wide range of colleges. The most useful way to understand a 23 is to compare it to each school’s typical ACT range (often shown as the middle 50% range). If your 23 falls inside that range, you’re usually in a competitive spot. If it’s above the range, your score may be a strength. If it’s below, admission may still be possible, but your grades, course rigor, and the rest of your application will matter more.
What Colleges Can I Get Into with an ACT Score of 23?
With a 23 ACT score, you can be a competitive applicant at many colleges and universities, including a wide range of public universities and private colleges. The list below includes schools that have a track record of admitting students with a 23. Keep in mind that no single ACT score guarantees admission, and different colleges weigh test scores differently. This is especially true at schools with test-optional policies.
How to Use This List in a Way That Actually Helps
Start by clicking a college and checking whether your 23 is below, within, or above its typical ACT range. Then build a list that gives you options: include several schools where your academic profile looks clearly safe, a set of schools where you’re close to the middle of the range, and a couple where you’re stretching. After that, compare net cost and scholarship opportunities, because affordability can matter just as much as admission.
Should I Retake the ACT with a Score of 23?
Retaking can be worth it if you have a clear goal. Consider a retake if your target colleges typically enroll students with higher ACT scores, if you’re aiming for a scholarship cutoff, or if you believe you can raise your score with focused practice and better pacing.
If you retake, keep it targeted. Use your score report to identify the section where you missed the most questions, practice the question types that show up most often, and do timed sets to build speed. If retesting would take time away from your grades or applications, you may be better off strengthening the rest of your profile, especially GPA, course rigor, essays, and activities.
23 ACT to SAT Equivalent
A 23 ACT score is typically comparable to about 1130 to 1150 on the SAT. Concordance ranges are estimates, but they can help you understand where you stand if you’re deciding between tests. A timed SAT practice test is a simple way to see which format suits you better.
Scholarships for a 23 ACT Score
A 23 ACT score can help with merit scholarships at some colleges, and it can still support outside scholarship applications as well. Your best approach is to apply broadly across scholarships tied to academics, leadership, service, intended major, background, location, and extracurricular interests. Use our scholarship database to find opportunities you can realistically complete and track.
