<span>29 ACT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 29 ACT Score</span>

29 ACT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 29 ACT Score

The ACT is a standardized test that a number of colleges and universities consult when considering applicants for admission. The exam is made up of 4 mandatory portions, English, Reading, Science, and Math, as well as one options portion, Writing. Test takers have 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete the exam, plus an additional 40 minutes with the optional Writing portion.

The test is scored on a scale of 1 to 36, with the average test score for all two million yearly exam takers hovering around 21. 

 

Is a 29 ACT Score (91st Percentile) Good?

With a 29 ACT score, you’re an eligible and competitive applicant at a majority of schools. You’ll also be able to apply to a number of selective and elite institutions and be considered for acceptance. Since the purpose of taking the ACT is to give you a wide variety of college options to choose from, a score of 29 accomplishes that goal.

To understand how well you’ve actually done, let’s look at this another way. A 29 ACT score puts you in the 91st percentile — that means you scored higher than 91%  of all test takers. That’s a brilliant accomplishment and you should be proud! 

 

What Colleges Can I Get Into with an ACT Score of 29?

An ACT score of 29 makes you eligible for admission at a wide variety of colleges and universities, including several selective schools. We’ve put together a sample list of these institutions below. While an ACT score is only one factor in the admissions process, all of these colleges have a history of admitting students with scores of 29.

 

Should I Retake the ACT with a 29 Score?

There’s no pressing need to retake the ACT with a score of 29, unless your ideal school would like to see a higher score. The only schools that require a score higher than 29 are typically very competitive, making them difficult to gain admittance to, even for qualified students. Compare your score to your college list and, if you fall in the 75th percentile, there’s no need to retake it. 

Now is the time to determine what school is the best fit for you, both as an individual and academically. Consult with your college counselor and they’ll be able to recommend several colleges and universities based on your interests. Follow up on their recommendations and research these schools further to determine if there’s a match. Because your ACT score will enable you to apply to some selective and elite colleges, pay particular attention to assembling a list of safety, match, and reach schools to provide as many options as possible.

Since competition at some more selective schools will be fierce, if you’re a junior, concentrate on making sure that your academic record for the rest of high school makes you as marketable as your ACT score. Dedicate more study time to any classes that feel are especially difficult in order to maintain a good GPA for the final portion of high school. Because most colleges consider GPA and ACT scores equally, academic performance could make the difference when applying to an elite institution. You also have a decent amount of time to retake the exam before college application season if you’re looking to increase your competitiveness.

As for seniors, avoid the temptation of senioritis and end your high school career with strong academics. This is also the time to ensure that the rest of your application is as noteworthy as an ACT score of 29. Have a college counselor or teacher read through your personal essay and offer suggestions for improvement. A good essay coupled with solid recommendation letters can make all the difference during the admissions process.

 

29 ACT to SAT Equivalent

A 29 SAT score is equivalent to earning a 1350 to 1380 on the SAT.  There are a few differences between these two tests, but this is a good way to understand how they compare. 

These two standardized tests require different time management skills, different tools, and even boast different types of content. If you feel like you should be scoring higher on your ACT than you are, you may want to consider taking a practice SAT to see what predicted score you earn. It may be that the SAT is better suited for your test-taking style. 

 

Scholarships for a 29 ACT Score

Merit aid, or money earned for your test scores or GPA, is a great way to offset the cost of college tuition. A 29 ACT score will earn you a good amount of merit aid from potential colleges and universities, as well as from third-party scholarship providers. Make sure to apply for as many merit scholarships as possible, as well as scholarships based on your location, life circumstances, extracurriculars, passions, future major, and more! 

 

View all scholarships

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 29 a good ACT score?

A 29 ACT score makes you eligible and competitive at many colleges, including some selective ones, as well as makes you eligible for merit aid. All of this makes a 29 ACT score a good one! 

 

What colleges can I get into with a 29 ACT score?

You’re an eligible candidate for any number of schools, but you can include the University of Central Florida, the University of Texas at Austin, and the University of Washington-Seattle Campus among your Target Institutions. 

 

What percentile is a 29 ACT score?

A 29 ACT score puts you at the 91st percentile, meaning you scored higher than 91% of all test takers. 

 

What is the SAT equivalent of a 29 ACT score?

A 29 ACT score is equivalent to earning a 1350 to 1380 on the SAT. Keep in mind that these tests do have a few differences, but this is a good way to understand how they compare. 

 

What scholarships can you get with a 29 ACT score?

You’re eligible to apply for many merit aid scholarships, so start searching now! Don’t forget to also apply for scholarships based on your future major, location, life circumstances, passions, extracurriculars, and more! 

 

View all scholarships

 

Advanced Search

Pennsylvania State University, Penn State, is a land-, sea-, and space-grant university with a main campus in University Park. This public research institution was founded in 1855 and is one of the largest universities in the US by student body. Its...

“…

High school classes never provided the challenge that I felt that I needed academically, but when I got to Penn State I found that. Teachers no longer treated us as children and did their best to stimulate learning and provoke genuine thoughts and...

” – Caitlyn from State College, PA

Opening its doors on October 4, 1876, Texas A&M University’s College Station campus was the first institution of higher education in Texas. A&M is home to 17 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 133 undergraduate degree...

“…

I am going into my sophomore year here in a couple weeks. The first year was really a reality check compared to high school. Some of the classes are huge and some are a size that I was used to. But the resources available to any student are amazing...

” – Sean from Rio Rancho, NM

Featuring the largest single-campus enrollment in the United States, the University of Central Florida is a public university in Orlando. UCF is home to 13 colleges granting degrees in over 200 academic majors. Additionally, UCF is a space-grant...

“…

This is no high school!! I went from being a honor student getting straight A's without much studying to hitting the books for hours... and (BEST OF ALL) ACTUALLY LEARNING!! I actually feel FULFILLED now and CHALLENGED! The courses and professors...

” – Andrea from Orlando, FL

Arizona State University, located in Tempe, Arizona, is a large public university founded in 1886, making it the first higher education institution in the state. ASU also has campuses in downtown Phoenix, in Glendale, a Polytechnic in Mesa, in Lake...

“…

There is alot to learn about college life, and ASU gave me the lowdown really fast. textbooks, classes, advisers, professors, football, sororities, as well as studying abroad and already talking about graduate school as a freshman. ASU has helped me...

” – Alexandra from Mesa, AZ

Purdue University-West Lafayette is a public research university founded in 1869 and the main campus of the Purdue University System. Purdue is home to 11 colleges and schools including a nationally renowned School of Engineering conferring degrees...

“…

I am in the College of Science, and the classes are challenging, but not so difficult as to be unmanageable. The course studies for all majors are rigorous and test your abilities at time management and focus. The pace is much quicker than in high...

” – Anne from West Lafayette, IN

Founded in 1885, Arizona is the state's flagship 4-year public institution. The University of Arizona features 20 colleges, more than 300 undergraduate degrees, and top-ranked online programs. Committed to innovation and impact, the university's...

“…

The University of Arizona has been all I've ever dreamed of so far! There is something for everyone, no matter who you are or what interests you have. It has been the perfect college experience and more.

” – Summer from Mesa, AZ

Founded in 1855, Michigan State University is a large public research institution in East Lansing, Michigan, with a multicultural student population representing more than 140 countries. MSU offers more than 200 areas of study through 17 degree...

“…

The sectioned off campus is amazing since you don't have to interact with any non-students or faculty. There are plenty of activities on campus through our University Activities Board, which is a great experience for all incoming students. And It is...

” – Evan from East Lansing, MI

Syracuse University is a private, research institution located in the New York town of the same name. SU’s 13 academic divisions offer 200 majors and 100 minors for undergraduate students, as well as multiple international study programs in  60...

“…

Syracuse University is a large university providing numerous courses, majors, minors, etc. Syracuse University even has the opportunity for you to create your own major! As someone interested in the sciences/mathematics, Syracuse University not only...

” – Kadiah from Jacksonville, FL

The University of California in Davis is a public institution in northern California and one of the largest universities by enrollment in the UC System. UC Davis is home to four colleges conferring undergraduate degrees and six professional schools...

“…

I have met amazing students. The talent here stretches all over the board from I can't believe you got in... to You also got into Cal Tech? Why didn't you go there instead? Because of my major, Biomedical Engineering, I don't associate with the...

” – HONG from San Jose, CA

Florida State University is the oldest institution of Higher Education in Florida. Located on 1,633 acres of land in Tallahassee, FSU is a space- and sea-grant research university offering more than 300 degree programs. The campus is home to the only...

“…

Whether you take classes taught by professors or graduate students you are guaranteed to expand your knowledge immensely! Every person on our faculty is incredibly knowledgeable and a great resource for students. I have learned something new everyday...

” – Kristin from Tallahassee, FL

San Diego State University is a public research institution located in San Diego, California. What began as an all-female college for elementary school teachers now consists of 8 colleges that offer 95 undergraduate programs plus a variety of...

“…

The classes are great! The campus staff offers tons of help to pick out your classes to make sure you are utilizing your time and expediting your stay here on campus. I am currently taking Sociology, Political Science, Spanish, Communication...

” – Andrea from Palmdale, CA

Founded in 1820, Indiana University-Bloomington is the largest university in the state and the flagship campus of the IU system in southwest Indiana. IU encompasses 16 colleges and schools hosting over 200 undergraduate majors. As a school with a...

“…

Although I have only been here at IU for a few short months, it feels as if I have learned so much. I am in the Jacobs School of Music, more specifically, which is known to be one of the top music schools in the country. The faculty are all amazing...

” – Alana from San Francisco, CA

The University of California in Irvine was founded in 1965 in the town and state of the same name, and is the youngest member of the Association of American Universities. This high-research institution offers 92 majors and 86 minors and the campus is...

“…

I am glad that I actually joined CSSA CAMP Summer Science Academy, which I highly recommend for those who are of a Chicano/Latino, African-American, Native American, or Pacific Islander and must be majoring in Biological Sciences...

” – Sal from Whittier, CA

Howard University is an HBCU comprised of 13 schools and colleges located two miles from the US Capitol. Nationally-ranked programs at HU include social work, business, and communication sciences and disorders. Howard has three honors programs for...

“…

Attending Howard University is an experience like no other. Not only am I learning a lot about my particular field of study, but I am also learning a lot about myself and my history. Attending an HBCU is a one of a kind experience I would never trade...

” – Ondrae from New York, NY

With a campus along the Willamette River, the University of Oregon is a 4-year public university in Eugene and the flagship campus of the UO System. The UO is home to nine colleges hosting more than 300 degree-granting academic programs. To provide a...

“…

Professors are very highly qualified and will teach a lot. Great learning experiences everywhere.

” – Samantha from Portland, OR

The University of Houston is a public research institution and the third-largest university in Texas. UH is home to 16 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in 108 fields of study. A diverse campus, UH has been designated an Hispanic-...

“…

The University of Houston offers a large amount of options for your academic ambitions. At the same time it ensures that it has the professors to back them up. Most of the professors I've encountered are well educated in their fields and make a good...

” – Spencer from Houston, TX

The University of South Florida is a public research university located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, offering more than 180 majors and concentrations. Ranked on multiple lists for its research efforts, USF’s Office of Undergraduate Research at the Tampa...

“…

I'm in the Honors College and a double major in Science and Language. All of my professors know what they are talking about and most are very willing to help you understand the material.

” – Joana from Viera, FL

The first university chartered by an Act of Congress; Ohio University is a 4-year public research institution in southeast Ohio. The Athens, Ohio, campus is home to nine colleges, including the highly regarded Honors Tutorial College, conferring...

“…

I am learning a lot at Ohio University! I am a sophomore who recently transferred here and so far I believe this decision was one of the best I ever made. The GenEd courses are not too hard but I have studied a lot and therefore learned a lot. Yes...

” – Hannah from Swanton, OH

Auburn University
Auburn University, AL

Auburn University is a 4-year public research institution and the second largest university in Alabama. Auburn encompasses 12 colleges offering undergraduate degrees in over 150 academic majors. Outside of the classroom, Auburn is home to the Auburn...

“…

Auburn is definitely a highly academic school. Just because Auburn is in Alabama does not mean that it is by any means easy. It was actually just ranked as one of the hardest grading colleges in the nation. This is not a place for slackers. Be ready...

” – Jennifer from Snellville, GA

Temple University, founded in 1884, is a public, four-year high research university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Home to more than 37,000 students, Temple offers more than 600 academic programs in 17 schools and colleges, on several...

“…

You will get on of the best educations for less. They have built new high quality colleges like the new business and art school buildings.

” – Theeya from Philadelphia, PA

The University of South Carolina is a 4-year public research institution in the state capital of Columbia. South Carolina encompasses 12 colleges conferring undergraduate degrees. Additionally, U of SC is home to the first freestanding academic...

“…

There is a wide range of classes available at the University of South Carolina. From various business classes, to languages, to music class (one about the beatles!), to whatever you want. The University has a wide range of majors, and is ranked...

” – Amber from Ladson, SC

Oregon State University is an international public institution located in Corvallis, OR. Originally Corvallis Academy, 150 years and more than 200 degree offerings later, OSU is one of only three universities in the US to have a land-, sea-, space-...

“…

As with most colleges and universities not every course offering is entirely the same. It really depends on the instructor you get for a course, some have different teaching styles than others and may not match your learning techniques.

” – Jasmine from Beaverton, OR

The Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College, more commonly known as Louisiana State, is the most comprehensive university in the state. This public university is located in Baton Rouge and is a designated land-, space-, and...

“…

At LSU, many of the professors are actually interested in you learning. After being in a class as small as 20, to being in a class as big as 300, the professors are always encouraging student involvement with questions and working in groups. They are...

” – Shanae from Randallstown, MD

Colorado State University is a land grant university located in Fort Collins at the base of the Rocky Mountains. Business Administration, Kinesiology, and Human Development are popular fields of study at this flagship university. A Student Recreation...

“…

I rated this an amazing 5 stars out of 5 because I am learning a lot in my prerequisite classes. Interesting things I would have never known about if I wasn't required to take those classes. These prerequisite classes make students very well-rounded...

” – Gianna from Pueblo West, CO

Georgia State University is a 4-year public university with seven campuses throughout Atlanta and the largest university in the state by enrollment. GSU features 10 colleges and schools conferring degrees in over 100 areas of study. Additionally, the...

“…

The instructors here are amazing. Every instructor I have had thus far has been willing to help out in any aspect of my school work. All you need to do is ASK for the help. The professors are very accommodating tot he students needs and are prepared...

” – David from Peachtree City, GA

The Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, also known as Virginia Tech, is a 4-year public research university in western Virginia. Virginia Tech encompasses nine colleges offering bachelor’s degrees in 110 academic majors. To promote...

“…

The teachers are always here to help. Tech also has several study groups and tutoring programs for students who need a little extra to grasp a concept.

” – Marecka from Spring Grove, VA

Liberty University is a Christian institution located in Lynchburg, VA. The 7,000-acre campus hosts more than 550 programs of study within its 17 colleges and schools. LU's mission of creating "Champions for Christ" is encouarged through the...

“…

It's amazing how much I learned. When I went to work during break, I got into a few conversations and started spitting out information that I learned at school that seemed so complicated when I was learning it. I learned a lot of life lessons in the...

” – Jessica from Smithfield, VA

Founded in 1847, the University of Iowa is a 4-year public research institution in Iowa City, often considered one of the nation’s top college towns. Iowa grants undergraduate degrees in over 200 academic majors, minors, and certificate programs. The...

“…

The education is top-notch here at U of Iowa. The campus is beautiful and it's a Big Ten school with a small school feeling. At University of Iowa you will really feel like it's your home away from home.

” – Kevin from Crystal Lake, IL

George Mason University is a public research university with three regional locations and an international campus in Songdo, Korea. It is considered to have the “Highest Research Activity” and ranks among the Best Southeastern Schools according to...

“…

As long as you have a genuine thirst for knowledge, most classes will be very intriguing and you will take pride in what you have learned. Many of the professors I have come into contact with are excellent teachers and are highly available through...

” – from Fairfax, VA

The University of Kentucky is a land-grant university that was founded in 1865 in Lexington, Kentucky. U.S. News & World Report ranks UK as #63 in Top Public Schools. The most popular fields of study at this “selective” university are Education...

“…

The University of Kentucky has provided me with a great sense of culture and community. They have proved to have courses that are meaningful and rigorous. I have learned a lot about how to commit myself to a program fully to allow me to be successful...

” – Garrett from Lexington, KY

DePaul University is one of the largest private universities in the country. Located in Chicago, DePaul has more than 22,000 students, offers more than 300 degree programs over ten academic colleges and schools, and offers two campuses in the heart...

“…

The DePaul University professors are incredibly generous people that try their best to help out. Any professor that I have encountered is eager to provide help or advice to those who need it. It's just a very nice school that is well worth the price...

” – Patrice from Sauk Village, IL

Rutgers University is a public research university, one of the first nine original colonial colleges, and a land grant institution, as well. The largest university in New Jersey, Rutgers maintains 29 schools and colleges between its three campuses...

“…

Rutgers University provides a broad range of academic programs and exiting career fields. Students come from all over the world to take part in Rutgers academic tradition that has an educational legacy for over 235 years. The School of Arts and...

” – Samir from Jersey City, NJ

Founded in 1864, the University of Denver is the oldest private university in the Rocky Mountain Region. DU confers bachelor’s degrees in over 100 academic fields of study and every major enables students to take courses across different subjects...

“…

You will only learn a lot if you show up to class, are actively engaged in lectures, and go the extra step to talk to your professors or do outside research on the subject matter you are learning about. Personally, I love to learn and I find the...

” – Lauren from Eagan, MN

Originally founded as a one room accounting school, Pace University is a 4-year research institution in Manhattan. Pace is home to six colleges and schools conferring bachelor’s degrees in over 65 academic majors. In addition, the Manhattan campus...

“…

Pace University has an amazing staff. Professors are dedicated to helping students during class and outside of the classroom setting. The class size is just right to be able to learn and focus.

” – Nichole from Brooklyn, NY

Founded in 1919, the University of Cincinnati is a 4-year public research institution and the second largest university in the state of Ohio. UC is home to 14 colleges and schools conferring degrees and is renowned as the first school to offer a co...

“…

University of Cincinnati is a big school that offers a copious amount of sports and organizations. The professors are kind, open and willing to help. The main campus offers beautiful scenery, modern to historic architecture, and various stores...

” – Naira from Mason, OH

Located in Harrisonburg, VA, in the Shenandoah Valley, James Madison University is a public institution offering more than 120 degree options. As a research university, JMU features a Research and Scholarship (R&S) administration, and is home to the...

“…

The professors at James Madison Univeristy should not be taken lightly. Do not think you know more than them for a second because they will put you in your place and beat you with experience. If you ask most professors at JMU why they teach, I...

” – Joshua from Dale City, VA

The University of Kansas is a public research institution. The main campus is located in Lawrence, Kansas, and is one of five in the University of Kansas system. KU offers more than 200 undergraduate majors in one of the largest college towns in the...

“…

Great school, good campus, good night life, good education. Big classes at first, but they slim down as you progress. You will fall in love with this school.

” – Jordan from Littleton, CO

Named for a prominent 19th century philanthropist, Drexel University is a 4-year private research university in Philadelphia. Drexel offers bachelor’s degrees in over 80 academic majors with an emphasis on experiential learning. Additionally, the...

“…

No matter what major you are thinking of attending Drexel for, it is guaranteed that you will learn a lot. The quarter system allows you to take more classes every year, and though the work is condensed into a 10-week period, it is both manageable...

” – Haley from Gainesville, FL

Iowa State University is a public, land-grant university located in Ames, IA. The 1,813-acre campus features 6 undergraduate colleges offering 100+ majors, as well as residence hall, apartment-style, and Greek-life housing options for more than 35...

“…

Iowa State is a large university with the small college feel. It has many students but everywhere I go, I see people I know, and that are in my classes. Everyone is very nice and the professors know what they are teaching.

” – Grace from Vermont

Founded two years before Tennessee achieved statehood in 1794, the University of Tennessee-Knoxville is the flagship campus of the UT system and the first public university west of the Appalachian Divide. UT is home to nine colleges and schools...

“…

The University of Tennessee has a grueling science program. They have one of the most challenging science programs in the South, but the teachers are willing to help you out with anything and they are very flexible. If you are majoring in any...

” – Brittney from Knoxville, TN

Founded by Jesuits in the mid-nineteenth century, the University of San Francisco is a private Catholic university and the first university established in the city. The 55-acre urban campus located near Golden Gate Park is home to 49 academic majors...

“…

I actually applied to the University of San Francisco last minute. It was a choice that always lingered in my brain, but I never thought I would go that far from home. Without touring the school or talking to anyone from the school, I chose this...

” – Amie from Phoenix, AZ

North Carolina State University is a public land-, sea-, and space-grant research university located in the state capital, Raleigh, home of the annual state fair and Winterfest. The largest university in the Carolinas by enrollment, NC State is home...

“…

I am going to be a junior here and have already completed most of my core classes for my major. I have learned so much information about not just the field I am interested in, but other fields as well. I never find myself bored here.

” – Jennifer from Staten Island, NY

West Virginia University is a public, land-grant institution that operates 10 experimental farms and four forests across the state. Sociology, Journalism, and the Arts and Humanities are popular fields of study at this research-intensive university...

“…

Most people consider WVU a 'party school,' but once you attend your first class you will find that it is not all play here on campus. The classes challenge you and all of the teachers here are very interesting.

” – Elizabeth from Charlottesville, VA

Originally founded as a school for math and science teachers, Stony Brook University is a 4-year public university on Long Island and part of the State University of New York system. Stony Brook is home to 12 schools and colleges conferring degrees...

“…

I have been attending Stony Brook for a year and half and I have learned quite a bit. The professors are endearing as well as interesting. They keep the topics fun as well as informative, and due to the fact that Stony Brook provides it's students...

” – Janelle from Deer Park, NY

The University of Colorado Boulder is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains and ranks #90 in National Universities by the U.S. News & World Report. They offer Residential Academic Programs (RAPs), multiple honors programs, and an Education...

“…

University of Colorado at Boulder offers a wide variety of topics to emerge yourself in. I have declared my major in Ethnic Studies and am amazed about how many events that happen and conferences that go on that are about my major. Since attending...

” – Tia from Hilo, HI

Florida International University is the only public research university in Miami. FIU offers bachelor’s degrees in over 190 academic fields of study. In addition to classroom facilities, the FIU campus houses the International Hurricane Research...

“…

I am currently in the FIU Honors Program and it has been a great experience. The teachers are excellent and the classes are rich in knowledge, if you really want to take advantage of them though you absolutely need to put in your effort. A lot of the...

” – Taimi from Miami, FL

California State Polytechnic University-Pomona is a public university in southern California and one of two polytechnic institutions in the Cal State system. Cal Poly Pomona is home to nine colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees. In...

“…

I've learned so much here regarding my major, and I really enjoy the style of teaching here at Cal Poly.

” – Margot from San Diego, CA

With campus a short distance from the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Atlantic University is a 4-year public university in southeast Florida. FAU houses 10 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 170 fields of study. In addition to...

“…

This University has an extremely high academic level. Professors are dedicated, and provide their students with all necessary material for them to have a complete understanding of their subject. &#13;
Many classes include discussions, or online sections...

” – Samantha from Coral Springs, FL

The University of Delaware is a 4-year public university in northern Delaware and one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the country—noting signers of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution in its first graduating...

“…

The teachers here really care about their students. A lot of the introductory classes are packed in terms of subject matter and students, so your best help comes from visiting during office hours. Every class I've taken has taught me a great amount...

” – Diana

The University of Utah is a public research instititution situated in Salt Lake City that offers more than 100 undergraduate majors. The U is home to three professional arts organizations to complement the College of Fine Arts, and even features a 3...

“…

The University of Utah classes are both academically challenging and realistically applicable.The professors teach in ways that challenge me to think differently and openly relating to the real world. It's actually quite refreshing. Not only am I...

” – Abby from Salt Lake City, UT