If you scored a 34 on the ACT, you're probably wondering where you stand. A 34 is an excellent score that places you in the 99th percentile nationally. According to ACT's official data, the national average composite score was 19.4 for the class of 2024. Your 34 puts you well above most test-takers.
But whether a 34 is "good" depends on where you're applying and what the rest of your application looks like.
A 34 ACT score is strong by any measure. Out of nearly 1.4 million students who took the ACT in 2024, only about 1% scored a 34 or higher. You're academically competitive for the vast majority of colleges in the country, including many highly selective institutions.
For context:
Your 34 opens doors to excellent schools. Whether it's enough for your specific college list depends on where you're aiming.
Colleges don't admit students based solely on test scores. While a 34 ACT demonstrates strong academic preparation, admissions officers look at your whole profile. Once your score shows you can handle rigorous coursework, they focus on other dimensions that reveal who you are as a person.
Schools consider:
A 34 checks the academic readiness box at nearly every college. What happens next depends on the rest of your story. Our test preparation services help students not only achieve strong scores but also build the confidence and critical thinking skills that serve them throughout college and beyond.
For Ivy League and other highly selective schools, a 34 ACT is competitive. Schools like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton typically see average scores between 34 and 35, with admitted students ranging from about 33 to 36.
A 34 won't keep you out of top schools, but it also won't guarantee admission. Schools this selective admit only a small percentage of applicants, and everyone in the pool has exceptional credentials. What distinguishes admitted students is often the depth of their intellectual curiosity, the impact of their activities, and the authenticity of their personal narrative.
If you're aiming for the most competitive schools and feel your score could be higher, you might consider retaking the ACT. Many students improve their scores with focused preparation. Understanding how many times you should take the SAT (similar principles apply to the ACT) can help you make an informed decision.
Many colleges now offer test-optional admissions, giving you the choice of whether to submit scores. A 34 is strong enough that you should almost always submit it. Test-optional doesn't mean test scores don't matter. Strong scores still strengthen your application, especially at competitive schools.
Submit your 34 if:
A 34 adds value to your application at nearly every school. Choosing whether to go test-optional vs. test-blind becomes relevant mainly if your score falls significantly below a school's typical range.
At LifeWorks, we help students build both the academic skills and the confidence they need to thrive in college and beyond. Get in touch with us to learn how we support your college journey.
Is a 34 ACT good enough for Harvard?
A 34 is competitive for Harvard, which typically sees scores between 34 and 36. While strong, admission depends heavily on other application factors.
Should I retake the ACT if I scored a 34?
Only retake if you're confident you can score higher and if target schools have averages above 34. Otherwise, focus on strengthening other application areas.
What percentile is a 34 ACT score?
A 34 places you in the 99th percentile nationally, meaning you scored higher than approximately 99% of test-takers.
Can a 34 ACT get you scholarships?
Yes, many schools offer merit scholarships for scores in this range. Check specific scholarship requirements at schools on your list.
Is a 34 better on the SAT or ACT?
A 34 ACT roughly corresponds to a 1510-1520 SAT. Both are excellent scores that open similar opportunities at selective colleges.
Does a 34 guarantee college admission?
No score guarantees admission, especially at highly selective schools. Admissions is holistic, and schools evaluate your entire application, not just test scores.
