<span>28 ACT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 28 ACT Score</span>

28 ACT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 28 ACT Score

The ACT is a college entrance exam used during the admissions process to measure proficiency in Math, Science, English, and Reading. Taking 2 hours and 55 to complete, the ACT is composed of 215 questions, along with an optional Writing portion, and is graded on a scale of 1 to 36. The national average ACT score is 20.8. 

 

Is a 28 ACT Score (88th Percentile) Good?

A score of 28 places you in approximately the 88th percentile of all high school students. With a 28, you’re an extremely competitive candidate at a majority of schools, as well as able to consider applying to more selective institutions as well. Since one of the purposes of taking the ACT is to generate a large number of college options to choose from, a score of 28 accomplishes this goal.

Looking at this from that percentage angle, an ACT score of 28 puts you at the 88th percentile — that means you scored higher than 88% of all test takers, of which there are nearly 2 million. All that considered, a 28 is definitely a good score! Congratulations! 

 

What Colleges Can I Get Into with an ACT Score of 28?

With an ACT score as high as 28, you’re a competitive candidate at a majority of institutions and we’ve put together a sample list of them below. Be aware that a standardized test score alone is not a guarantee of acceptance, but all of these institutions have a history of admitting students who earn a 28 on the ACT.

 

Should I Retake the ACT with a 28 Score?

There’s no pressure to retake the ACT with a score of 28. The one primary reason a student would retake the ACT at this juncture would be if their ideal school wants a point or two higher. Otherwise, you’re eligible for merit aid and are competitive at a wide variety of schools, so retaking it isn’t necessary.

If you’re a junior and your ACT score is in the 90th percentile for the colleges and universities you’re interested in, concentrate on doing as well as possible in all classes during your remaining time in high school. Devote more study time to any courses that feel especially difficult to ensure that your GPA remains at a good level. Most colleges weigh ACT scores on an equal basis with GPA so it’s important to put in the work and finish high school strong.

Several more selective colleges use an ACT score of 30 as an approximate benchmark for admission, but don’t let that deter you from applying. Just be sure to also apply to Likely and Target colleges, too. If you opt to retake the ACT to improve your odds, you have a good amount of time to do so before college application season. Review the breakdown of your current score, study up on sections that weren’t your best, and consider getting a tutor to help you reach your goal score.

For seniors, concentrate on the rest of your application to ensure that it’s as marketable as an ACT score of 28. Pay particular attention to the personal essay and list of after school activities. Have your college counselor look over your essay and offer suggestions and critique. For more feedback, show it to a trusted teacher or mentor. Furthermore, contact any teachers who’ve impacted your high school career and ask them to write letters of recommendation. Try to ask your favorite teachers since the more personalized the letter gets, the more help it will be in getting into college.

 

28 ACT to SAT Equivalent

A 28 SAT score is equivalent to earning a 1310-1340 on the SAT. There are a few key differences between these two tests, so what you score on one may not be what you score on the other, but this is a good tool for comparison. 

 

Scholarships for a 28 ACT Score

Earning a 28 ACT score makes you eligible for merit aid both from your potential institution and from third-party scholarship providers. Start applying for scholarships today — and not only ones for merit, either. 

Find scholarships based on your location, life circumstances, extracurriculars, future major, and so much more on our extensive scholarship database. College comes with a variety of costs outside of tuition and having a nest egg will help offset the extra dollar signs! 

 

View all scholarships

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 28 a good ACT score?

A 28 ACT score makes you eligible to apply at a vast majority of schools as a competitive candidate, making it a good score. It also makes you eligible for a good amount of merit aid, which is definitely good! 

 

What colleges can I get into with a 28 ACT score?

With a 28 ACT score, you’re eligible to apply at more selective institutions as Target schools, including Pennsylvania State University, Texas A&M University-College Station, and Purdue University. Check out all of your options and make sure the rest of your college application just as impressive as your ACT score! 

 

What percentile is a 28 ACT score?

A 28 ACT score puts you at the 88th percentile, meaning you scored higher than 88% of all test takers. 

 

What is the SAT equivalent of a 28 ACT score?

A 28 ACT score is equivalent to earning a 1310 to 1340 on the SAT

 

What scholarships can you get with a 28 ACT score?

A 28 ACT score makes you eligible for merit scholarships, as well as merit aid from potential colleges and universities. Make sure to also apply for scholarships based on your location, extracurriculars, life circumstances, passions, future majors, and more! 

 

View all scholarships

 

Advanced Search

Formed by the unification of two Purdue campuses, Purdue University Northwest is a 4-year university in northwest Indiana. Located a short drive from Chicago, Purdue Northwest grants bachelor’s and graduate degrees in over 70 academic programs. For a...

Originally founded as ASU East, Arizona State University Polytechnic is a school specializing in STEM-related subjects in the Phoenix metro area and a campus of the ASU system. ASU Polytechnic is home to schools of Engineering, Business, Teaching...

College placeholder image

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College is a public institution located in suburban Erie, PA. PSB is a residential college and has one of the largest campuses in the Penn State System. Mechanical engineering, e-commerce, and...

“…

Although what you learn depends mostly on you the teachers also have a part in how a student learns. At Penn State the teachers take extra time out of their day to assist you along with most of the other staff. Everyone is willing to help and be...

” – Danielle from Erie, PA

College placeholder image

The University of New Hampshire at Manchester is a regional UNH campus in the heart of the largest city in the state. UNH Manchester is home to 33 undergrad and graduate degree programs and its facilities house 16 labs and studios. In addition, the...

“…

This is a beautiful school in downtown Manchester. The class size is small and intimate. Because it is a commuter campus I will live at home and save money on room and board.

” – Laina from Weare, NH

University of Connecticut-Stamford is an extension campus of UConn founded in 1952. The university operates the Connecticut Information Technology Institute which provides cyber-business research and IT developments. It is home to an outdoor park...

“…

Be especially careful when choosing your professors. I use Ratemyproff to carefully select mine. There may be a required class which only has one prof, if that's the case try to get a tutor (I use Wyzant). &#13;
&#13;
Don't be scared though, I've had amazing...

” – Melissa from Stamford, CT

California Lutheran University is a private, liberal arts institution in the town of Thousand Oaks, California. With students hailing from more than 49 countries, Cal Lutheran features a diverse enrollment and is a federally designated Hispanic...

“…

How could you NOT learn here, there are so few students per class and the professors know you!!I was taking an easy class in my major and the professor found out I was bored, so he offered me a chance to audit an upper level class in something I was...

” – Austin from El Cajon, CA

College placeholder image

With a campus along the banks of the Mississippi River, Principia College is a 4-year liberal arts institution in southwest Illinois with an emphasis on Christian Science. Principia confers bachelor’s degrees in 28 majors as well as an Individualized...

“…

It is one of the most uplifting campus' I have ever been on, because everyone understands the importance of Christian Science. The small size of the campus means that you get one on one time with all your professors, and they are able to take a...

” – Hannah

Named for breakfast cereal magnate C.W. Post, LIU Post is a private school on Long Island’s north shore and the largest campus of Long Island University. LIU Post grants bachelor’s degrees in over 50 academic majors. In addition, LIU Post is home to...

“…

LIU Post is an exquisite school equipped with a full recreational center, gourmet food, and a club for everybody. Like all schools the work is diifficult but there are upperclass tutors and teachers available to assist in any problems you may have. I...

” – Khadija from Brooklyn, NY

USF’s Sarasota-Manatee campus is the smallest of the three USF campuses, providing a tight-knit community where students thrive. Students with busy schedules can take advantage of the online course offerings and hybrid programs than blend both online...

With campus sharing a block with the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Minneapolis College of Art and Design is a private 4-year art school. MCAD confers undergraduate degrees in 14 art and design-related majors and is one of the few art institutions...

“…

MCAD is really great in its curriculum - freshmen have to take mostly foundation classes, but they all pertain to your major . . . meaning, there are no science or math courses you are required to take. Classes are small - usually less than 20...

” – Emily from Watertown, SD

Formerly known as the Philadelphia Bible Institute, Cairn University is a Christian college in eastern Pennsylvania. Cairn is home to six schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 40 Christ-centered majors. In addition, Cairn offers Christian...

“…

Not only am I learning more than I ever did at a Charter high school (which is a school that focuses on academics), but I'm learning how to think and how to question.

” – Kelly from Newark, DE

Linfield College-McMinnville Campus is an undergraduate liberal arts school that accepts new enrollments for both the fall and spring semesters. The 189-acre campus features the Miller Fine Arts Center/Linfield Gallery, the Vivian A. Bull Music...

“…

The quality of education at Linfield is rich and diverse. The student body has very unique and open ways of thinking, making learning limitless and creative. The programs are somewhat limited, but not by much, and if Linfield does have a liberal arts...

” – Rachel from McMinnville, OR

Drew University is more than a place to earn your degree—it is the beginning of a successful, purpose-driven life.
 
Choose from 40+ majors, 60+ minors, 18 Dual-Degree programs and 17 pre-professional programs. Every student graduates with a purpose...

“…

There is no doubt in my mind that I am learning a lot at Drew. This college is on the Princeton Review's list of top universities and top liberal arts colleges for a reason! The topics are very engaging and intense, and although I've had a couple of...

” – Eve from North Bergen, NJ

College placeholder image

Southern Arkansas University is a 4-year institution with a main campus in Magnolia. SAU offers a variety of majors, including the only computer game and animation design program in the state, and also features an Honors College for enhanced academic...

“…

This is the most helpful place I have ever been. Wether I am getting good news, or bad news SAU is always there to answer any question I may have. There are no waiting lists and no phone wait tone. I love being a student at Southern Arkansas...

” – No name woman

College placeholder image

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona is a public institution and commonwealth campus. It is located in Logan Township, PA. Popular areas of study include electrical and electronics engineering, nursing, and business. Study abroad options...

“…

Its all about your professors!! So when you schedule your first classes, make sure you go to www.ratemyprofessors.com and look the professor up! Trust me, you'll thank me in the end.

” – Kristen from Altoona, PA

Together, the College of Saint Benedict (CSB), for women, and Saint John’s University (SJU), for men, form a one-of-a-kind partnership of two top colleges – combining the abundant opportunities of a larger university with the small class sizes and...

“…

Classes here are challenging, certainly, but we're not paying private school tuition to take easy classes! Of course, the level of difficulty per class depends on the prof and the type of class (101 vs. Honors 311), but overall expect to have to work...

” – Trish from Mankato

Founded by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod, Martin Luther College is a Christian institution dedicated to public ministry training. Martin Luther is the designated WELS College of Ministry and the college’s three bachelor’s degrees provide...

“…

mlc has a small campus and low student-teacher ratio. it is a family atmosphere in which everyone encourages and supports everyone else. because we all have the same goal - ministry - it makes school much easier to adapt to.

” – Shane from Westland, MI

College placeholder image

Friends University Kansas is a private, Christ-centered institution established in Wichita in 1898. The college offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate-level academic programs with classes that boast a 10:1 student-teach ratio and online learning...

“…

The class sizes are very small so you get a lot of one on one time with the professors. They have plenty open offices hours for you to visit if you need help.

” – Quaprice from Wichita, KS

College placeholder image

Pennsylvania State University Harrisburg is a public institution and part of the Penn State system. Its campus is built over the retired Olmstead Air Force Base. Penn State Harrisburg is home to several research centers such as the Center for...

“…

My classes are varied. And I learn everyday.
I love EVERYTHING about my college!! I felt like I was suppose to come here.

” – Nailah from Upper Marlboro, MD

Pennsylvania State University in Abington is a public institution, and one of 24 PSU campuses throughout the state. PSU offers over 200 majors, 19 of which can be completed on the Abington campus, and also allows students to create their own major...

“…

I have just started and have already learned so much, that my horizons have completely changed. The teachers are so good, and so involved with their subjects and students, that they have started a fire in me which has caused me to re-think my goals...

” – Stacey from Philadelphia, PA

College placeholder image

Bryan College of Health Sciences is a medical education institution established in Lincoln, Nebraska. Students have a number of opportunities for experiential learning at Bryan Health College in the science labs, the clinic, the simulation center...

College placeholder image

Bellin College is a nursing and healthcare training school in northeast Wisconsin. Bellin’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is traditionally completed in 4 years and is also available as an accelerated 15-month program for students who have...

College placeholder image

Kuyper College is a Christian institution with an emphasis on training for a life in ministry. In addition to Kuyper’s religious degrees in programs like Biblical Greek and Youth Ministry, most  of the school’s other fields of study include a built...

“…

Academics are incorporated well with the Bible's teachings. The professors are good at what they do; teaching from a Christian worldview.

” – Alexandra from Cedarburg, WI

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus is the internet hub for all Penn State online classes. Penn State World confers degrees and certificates in over 150 academic programs entirely online. In addition, Penn State World does not require students...

College placeholder image

Penn State Berks is a commonwealth campus of the state land-grant university Pennsylvania State University. The 258-acre campus is home to the Perkins Student Center, the Janssen Conference Center, the Herb Society’s garden and numerous residence...

“…

I am learning everything I always dreamed of! And that is a GREAT education!

” – Damaris from Philadelphia, PA

College placeholder image

Located just off the banks of the Mississippi River in Dubuque, Iowa, Emmaus Bible College is a 4-year Christ-centered private school. Emmaus is affiliated with the Open Brethren, so attendance at daily chapel is mandatory, and all classes utilize...

“…

Emmaus is a no nonsense bible based college with an emphasis on the bible. It is a great place to learn more about the word of God and how to apply it to our every day lives. It also has a small student population which is great for getting to know...

College placeholder image

Founded by the Southern Baptist Convention, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is a Christian institution in Kansas City, Missouri, training students for ministry. All of Midwestern’s undergraduate programs are held at the seminary’s Spurgeon...

“…

Caring Christian Community of people, that takes pleasure in the spiritual and educational success of their students.
Warm loving educational experience. Family

” – Angela from Kansas City , MO

College placeholder image

The University of Florida Online is an internet-only campus of the UF system. UF Online provides the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree in 19 fields of study and all degrees are the same as those earned on any UF campus. As part of the Florida...

The Master’s University is a conservative, Christian, liberal arts university located in Santa Clarita, CA. The tree-filled, 95-acre campus offers 14 undergraduate majors and 4 graduate degrees, as well as teaching credentials and dual-enrollment...

“…

The Master's College has already taught me so much and I have not started my semester. Their teachings have reached me through their networking of other brothers and sisters in Christ and that is just a taste of what would happen once I finally start...

” – Vincent from Long Beach, CA

College placeholder image

With a curriculum founded on a biblical worldview, Appalachian Bible College is an independent Christian institution preparing students for a life in ministry. All ABC bachelor’s degree recipients major in Bible/Theology and choose from seven...

“…

Appalachian Bible College is everything i dreamed a college could be. The professors are kind-hearted, want to help in every way they can, and are big on making sure life isn't always so serious. Everyone is friendly and it is just an awesome place...

” – Meranda from Mt. Hope, WV

College placeholder image

Northern Vermont University Johnson is a public, 4-year institution established on a rural, 350-acre campus in Lamoille County. NVU Johnson offers nearly 40 major and minor areas of study, four graduate areas of study, and a variety of licensure and...

College placeholder image

The Baptist Memorial College of Health Sciences is a private, medical education institution established in Memphis, Tennessee. The college features a Christ-centered student life, and students are required to complete 100 Service and Worship points...

“…

BCHS is truly a hidden gem amongst the many top-name colleges in the Mid South. It offers the same education (if not better) as any other school youâ??re considering offers, but for a fraction of the price. The BCHS staff is always there to help you...

” – Saint from Collierville, TN

College placeholder image

Founded by a Christian rock musician, Visible Music College is a Christian music academy dedicated to simultaneously training students in music and ministry. Visible offers three bachelor’s degree programs in Music Production, Music Business, and...

College placeholder image

Concordia University Nebraska is a private, Christ-centered institution established in the city of Seward and is part of the Concordia University System. The college’s 85-acre campus is home to over 20 academic buildings and residence halls, and...

“…

I am a Theology major in the Director of Christian Education (DCE) program here at Concordia and very much like the majority of the class I have taken thus far. I especially like the classes geared towards my two main areas of emphasis and the...

” – Nicholas from Broomfield, CO

College placeholder image

Located just outside of Allentown, Penn State Lehigh Valley is the oldest commonwealth campus in the Pennsylvania State University system. Penn State Lehigh Valley offers nine bachelor’s degree programs and an honors program as well as the option to...

College placeholder image

As the oldest institution affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary is a Christian academy dedicated to training students for ministry. All undergraduate students attend Southern Seminary’s Boyce...

“…

The Southern Seminary is truly serious about the Gospel. The stress the importance of academics. They also stress the importance of building community within the dorms.

” – Zach from Kentucky

College placeholder image

Perched atop a hillside, Penn State York is a commonwealth campus of Penn State University located in southern Pennsylvania. Penn State York offers 11 bachelor’s degrees and five associate degree programs available entirely on campus as well as the...

“…

Best priced penn state branch there is! :)

” – Taylor from Dallastown, PA

College placeholder image

The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences is a health science institution in Cincinnati affiliated with The Christ Hospital Health Network. TCCNHS offers bachelor’s degrees in Nursing and Health Care Administration as well as associate...

College placeholder image

Penn State Mont Alto is a commonwealth campus of Pennsylvania State University offering five bachelor’s and eight associate degrees and certificates. Students at Penn State Mont Alto also have the option to begin over 160 other majors before...

“…

Not only am I learning educational material from wonderful professors but I am always learning how to live and manage my time on a small campus in the middle of nowhere.

” – Kevin from Washington, DC

Together, the College of Saint Benedict (CSB), for women, and Saint John’s University (SJU), for men, form a one-of-a-kind partnership of two top colleges – combining the abundant opportunities of a larger university with the small class sizes and...

“…

I expect to learn a lot in this environment where the faculty is very involved in the students progress.

” – Ryan from Texas

College placeholder image

Located in the northeast part of the state, Pennsylvania State University in Hazleton offers 10 bachelor’s degree programs and 5 associate degrees on the 125-acre campus overlooking the Conyngham Valley. Students at Penn State Hazleton can take part...

“…

In three sentences? Hmmm...This campus has many opportunities. It has a small class size to teacher ratio. The parties are fun. In all, PSU Hazy is a great place.

” – psuhazy

College placeholder image

Penn State Brandywine is a campus in the Pennsylvania State University system located just outside of Philadelphia. Brandywine offers bachelor’s degrees in 12 fields of study as well as the opportunity to begin studying over 160 majors that can be...

“…

Both the professors and the students really get intimate with the whole learning process.

” – Lakyra from Philadelphia, PA

College placeholder image

The University of Connecticut Waterbury is a satellite campus in the UConn system. UConn Waterbury features bachelor’s degree programs in eight subjects including Urban & Community Studies and provides the first two years of instruction for over 110...

College placeholder image

As a branch facility of Pennsylvania State University, Penn State Greater Allegheny is a public, 4-year institution located in McKeesport. The college offers 12 associate and bachelor-level fields of study, many minor and credit certificate options...

“…

Penn State is a great school. You can learn a lot if you like small classes and close relationships with teachers. Penn State Greater Allegheny can make your educational goals completer if your willing to put in the work.

” – Marcus from Pittsburgh, PA

College placeholder image

Nebraska Methodist College is a medical school in Omaha affiliated with the Nebraska Methodist Health System. NMC is home to academic departments in Nursing, Allied Health, and Health Professions offering 42 degrees and certificates and all NMC...

“…

I am almost done with school now I feel like I have already gotten way more than what my money paid for. Everyone is willing to help you and answer all the questions you have. I love it!

” – Stephanie from Lewis, IA

College placeholder image

New Saint Andrews College is a Christian liberal arts college with a Reformed perspective in western Idaho. New Saint Andrews offers a single bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts and Culture and every course is founded in a Christian worldview and...

“…

your very soul will be stretched and molded and right before it breaks it transforms something gloriously beautiful. you learn how to find joy and peace in the midst of intense trials. you truly understand what it is to live harmoniously with those...

” – Elisabeth from Elmwood, WI

Kentucky Mountain Bible College is a private, Christ-centered, Wesleyan-Holiness institution located in Jackson. KMBC offers 23 academic programs throughout nine fields of study on-campus, and 3 fully-online programs. The college emphasizes...

College placeholder image

Penn State Wilkes-Barre is a commonwealth campus of the Pennsylvania State University system in northeast Pennsylvania. Penn State Wilkes-Barre offers 10 bachelor’s and four associate degree-granting academic programs. Additionally, students have the...

College placeholder image

With campus a short distance from the Mississippi River, Southeast Missouri Hospital College of Nursing and Health Sciences is a nurse-training academy. Combining general education with professional training, SEH College offers a Bachelor of Science...

College placeholder image

Established in 1921, Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary is a private, Christ-centered institution located in Ankeny, Iowa. Faith offers 13 one- to four-year undergraduate programs, as well as a Master of Divinity, Doctor of Ministry...

“…

When I came to Faith I wanted to learn more about God and the Bible and I have been very impressed with the academic level achieved here. The professors are very knowledgeable in their areas of expertise and teach in a personal and interesting way...

” – Megan from Bonaparte, IA