<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

Founded in 1870, Canisius College is a private, Jesuit institution located in Buffalo, New York. Admissions are rated as “selective.” Biology, psychology, finance, accounting and Animal Behavior, Ecology and Conservation are among the most popular...

“…

Canisius has great programs for the majors and minors that they offer. The science programs are very demanding, but will prepare you for medical, dental, and vet schools.

” – Lauren from NY

Founded in 1891, North Park University is a Christian institution in Chicago affiliated with the Evangelical Covenant Church. North Park is home to six colleges and schools as well as a seminary conferring degrees in over 60 undergrad and graduate...

“…

It is very easy to learn everything you need to know at this school. The largest class size is 25 max. Your professors are always available to help you when you need extra help.

” – Shellye from las vegas, NV

Life-changing adventure. Knowledge and skills that stand the test of time. The world’s greatest guides. At Rollins, you’ll craft a one-of-a-kind college experience and seize infinite opportunities to put your education to work in the world. You’ll...

“…

When i started attending this college it was so surreal, everything about his school was perfect. The campus was beautiful, the professors amazing and my peers pretty awesome. The classes are small and have been more focused on the individual...

” – Justin from Winter Park, FL

Eastern Kentucky University, located in Richmond, KY, is a regional, public institution of higher education offering more than 100 diverse and in-demand degrees and concentrations. EKU provides a high-quality and affordable education to nearly 15,000...

“…

You learn a lot if you make it to every class and do all the readings required. It's tough, but anyone can do it. Get to know your teachers, they help more than you'd think. And they do understand what is happening with all the changes in our lives...

” – Natalie from Lexington, KY

Founded in 1841, Samford University is a 4-year Christian university in the greater Birmingham area affiliated with the Alabama Baptist Convention. Samford is home to 10 colleges conferring numerous undergraduate degrees and all classes are focused...

“…

From the standards of the admissions as well as the partnerships that Samford holds, I really do believe that learning will be taking place, both inside the classrooms and out.

” – TYEA from Birmingham, AL

Founded in 1867, Morehouse College is an Historically Black College and University in Atlanta and a 4-year liberal arts college for men. Morehouse grants bachelor’s degrees in 26 academic majors and the college consistently produces more Rhodes...

“…

Morehouse College is the perfect instutution. It have excellent teachers that can have individual time with their student becauese of the number of student that attend the college.

” – Trey from Lynn, MA

The St. John’s 150-year legacy is Catholic, Vincentian, metropolitan, and global. Graduates are not only employable, but, when they leave campus, they take with them all of the hope, compassion, awareness, and courage that can only come from knowing...

“…

Thanks to the professors, St. John's is a school that helps students for their particular career field. Many of the teachers have had experience in your field, so they are willing to give you tips that go a long way. This college is not for the...

” – MusicStudent

The second largest university in Louisiana, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette is a 4-year public school and part of the UL system. Louisiana Lafayette is home to nine colleges and schools offering bachelor’s degrees in 80 academic majors...

“…

Rarely I have had classes where I felt the relation between professor and class would lack.

” – Jonathan from Brusly, LA

Niagara University
Niagara University, NY

Founded by the Vincentian Community in 1856, Niagara University is a Catholic liberal arts college in northwestern New York State. Niagara is home to colleges of Arts & Sciences, Business Administration, Education, and Hospitality granting degrees in...

“…

niagara university has a great teaching staff; some of which work int the field they teach. they are very good about keeping you aware of current and up coming events. biggest criticism the current parking arrangement; be prepared to walk about 2-3...

” – Dawn from Niagara Falls, NY

Cornell College is a liberal arts institution situated in Mount Vernon, Iowa, that was founded in 1853. Deemed “more selective,” Cornell is one of only 40 schools profiled by Loren Pope's book "Colleges That Change Lives" and also ranks as a top tier...

“…

I love the atmosphere of learning here. There is always something academic going on, from the many guest lecturers and visiting professors to class field trips. I can focus fully on one subject at a time and not have to worry about having two papers...

” – Lucee from Pleasanton, TX

SUNY Oneonta is 4-year, public university and a member of the State University of New York. Offering more than 100 majors, minors, and cooperative programs, this mid-size university also offers 1,000+ study abroad programs through SUNY and is...

“…

To start, I am a sophomore at SUNY Oneonta double majoring in Geology and Anthropology and also perusing a double minor in Biology and Water Resources. After just two semesters at Oneonta, I can already say that I have learned an immense amount of...

” – Christopher from Wynantskill, NY

With a campus overlooking its eponymous river, Susquehanna University is a 4-year institution in central Pennsylvania featuring a liberal arts curriculum and pre-professional studies. Susquehanna is home to schools of Business and Arts & Sciences...

“…

The faculty at SU is wonderful. Everyone wants you to succeed. If going to class and taking notes aren't enough, professors are more than willing to take time out of their schedules to sit down with you to discuss the material until you truly...

” – Megan from Wilkes-Barre, PA

Allegheny College is a 4-year liberal arts college in northwest Pennsylvania dedicated to providing students an education across a variety of subjects. Allegheny grants bachelor’s degrees in 31 areas of study and all students are required to take at...

“…

If you weren't a hand-raiser before coming to Allegheny, it just might turn you into one. Class discussions never fail to be compelling, and even lecture classes are stimulating and never too large to exclude anyone. There is admittedly a heavy...

” – Roma from Morristown, NJ

University of La Verne is a nonprofit private school committed to supporting students as they pursue their passions and prepare for a lifetime of success. Founded in 1891, the university offers a distinctive learning experience in more than 40 majors...

“…

The professors at ULV are amazing and so knowledgeable. All of my professors have been really approachable and helpful. They really want you to succeed in your academics.

” – Korynn from LA Puente, CA

Ask any Saint: there is a lot to love about Siena. Our idyllic campus in New York’s Capital Region; our strong Franciscan values; faculty who draw out the best in their students; the connected alumni network, our robust program offerings; and the...

“…

I love learning in classes where there are 20 to 30 students in each class, opposed to being a lecture hall that seems overwhelming.

” – Janet from Port Jefferson station, NY

Originally founded in 1865 as a business college, Rider University is a 4-year private school in western New Jersey. Rider is home to colleges of Business Administration, the Arts, Education, and Liberal Arts offering undergraduate degrees in 71...

“…

The professors are very knowledgable. Many of the professors take the time to get to know their students.

” – Robert from Hamilton, NJ

Eastern University is a nationally-recognized Christian university enrolling approximately 5,700 students in a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, professional, and seminary programs. The university’s main campus is located in St. Davids, PA, with...

“…

Eastern has really taught me a lot not just academically, but also spiritually and personally. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is just how connected everything is. I've learned things in TaeKwon-Do that applied to Psychology that then applied...

” – Angelique

Named for a Methodist bishop, Hamline University is a liberal arts school in St. Paul affiliated with the United Methodist Church and the first university founded in Minnesota. Hamline offers undergraduate degrees in over 50 academic fields of study...

“…

The professors were amazing! Very helpful.

” – Brittany from South Saint Paul, MN

Founded by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Erie, Gannon University is a 4-year Catholic liberal arts college in northwest Pennsylvania and one of 11 Diocesan universities in the United States. Gannon grants bachelor’s degrees in 64 academic fields of...

“…

The professors at Gannon are great. They will work with you and around your schedules to make sure that you are up to par and where you need to be. I find it great that there are certain classes that everyone has to take and they are often very...

” – Elizabeth from Mc Donald, PA

Affiliated with the Churches of Christ, Lipscomb University is a Christian liberal arts institution in Nashville. Lipscomb confers undergraduate degrees in 176 academic areas of study. As a Christian university, Lipscomb holds chapel services twice...

“…

I am learning about so many things I didn't know existed. I am learning about the Babylonian number system, Mayan number system, and the eight-fold path from the Buddhist religion.

” – Erica from LA Vergne, TN

Founded in 1851 by the Society of Jesus, Saint Joseph’s University is a Jesuit Catholic school in Philadelphia. SJU is home to colleges and schools of Arts & Sciences, Business, and Health Studies offering bachelor’s degrees with a core curriculum...

“…

Ultimately the learning is all up to the individual so it depends on the students dedication that they have. The teachers are very intelligent and they are willing to help with any problem. There are many different options for the student if he or...

” – Tina from Scranton, PA

Loyola University of New Orleans is a 4-year, Catholic university in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Loyola Core and core curriculum operates on the idea of “students as scholars” and centers on five key elements: critical thinking, effective...

“…

Loyola wants its students to be well-rounded. So you learn many things while you are there... about different cultures, religions, ways of thinking.&#13;
Also even though Loyola is a Jesuit University religion is never something that is forced upon you...

” – Zaina from Metairie, LA

Founded in 1891 by the Free Methodist Church of North America, Seattle Pacific University is a 4-year Christian university in Seattle. With a campus nestled in the north slope of Queen Anne Hill, SPU awards undergrad degrees in 69 academic majors. In...

“…

Seattle Pacific University is a small school, but the educational quality is wonderful. The professors teach every class themselves, and they are all always ready to meet and talk about your education. Furthermore, the professors themselves are...

” – Benjamin from Wilsonville, OR

Founded in 1874, the University of Nevada, Reno is a 4-year public institution and the first university founded in the state. UNR encompasses 11 colleges offering bachelor’s and graduate degrees in more than 460 fields of study. Additionally, the...

“…

My college experience thus far has taught me to work hard, how to prioritize my time better, and how to enjoy a full college experience. Classes here are lots of work, in order to succeed I had to learn great study habits, become friends with my...

” – Jessica from Reno, NV

Named for a famous televangelist, Oral Roberts University is an Evangelical Christian institution in Tulsa. ORU is home to six colleges conferring undergraduate degrees in over 77 academic majors and 65 minors. As an evangelical institution, Chapel...

“…

Not only am I learning SO much in regards to my media major and other general courses, I feel that I am learning so much about life and how to be a prospect for change in my community.

” – Chris from Tulsa, OK

Originally founded as the Childers Classical Institute, Abilene Christian University is a 4-year Christian institution in west Texas affiliated with the Churches of Christ. ACU confers bachelor’s degrees in over 70 academic majors with a focus on...

“…

I have learned and grown so much here. The teachers are amazing and care so much for you as a student and as a person. You will learn a ton in your classes, and will be more than prepared when you enter the work field or continue on with your...

” – Brittany from Abilene, TX

The University of Mary Washington is a 4-year liberal arts college in northern Virginia. UMW is home to colleges of Arts & Sciences, Education, and Business conferring undergraduate degrees in over 60 fields of study. To provide a transition to...

“…

Students at the University of Mary Washington definitely learn a lot. There are about 4,000 students total in the entire school, so over 900 students in each graduating class. It is so beneficial going to a school that is smaller because classes are...

” – Breon from Stafford, VA

With a main campus surrounded by the Pinelands National Reserve, Stockton University is a 4-year public institution in southern New Jersey. Stockton grants bachelor’s and graduate degrees in over 160 academic fields of study. To promote...

“…

There is a wide variety of courses available. When it comes time for me to register for classes, I am stuck because there are so many I want to take, and not enough time. I really love that Stockton encourages students to gain a breadth of...

” – Maria from Beachwood, NJ

“When society needed to expand educational opportunities in the region, Queens rose to the occasion in 1857 and was one of the very first universities to educate women.

 

When soldiers returned home after WWII and wanted to take classes, we opened...

“…

The teachers and curriculum here is outstanding. You will learn important things to help you further your career.

” – Brittany from Kings Mountain, NC

Founded in 1840, Southwestern University is a 4-year liberal arts college in the Austin metro area and the oldest university in Texas. Southwestern grants undergrad degrees in over 40 academic majors and minors. Additionally, Southwestern originated...

“…

This school is extremely informative- classes are small, reading is crucial, student-professor relationships are personal. In such a class setting, it is difficult to let the information slide past you. Also, attendance policy is strict- you can be...

” – Cheyney from San Antonio, TX

University of North Georgia is a public university in Dahlonega, an hour north of Atlanta, and is a member of University System of Georgia. The university offers more than 100 programs of study through five academic colleges, boasting 50 academic...

“…

The classes are small,and your professor knows you by name! It makes it easier to ask questions,and receive help! They offer tutoring and have labs where you can go and receive free help!

Murray State University is a 4-year public school in southwest Kentucky. Murray State is home to six colleges and schools conferring bachelor’s degrees in 126 academic programs. For students interested in the performing arts, Murray State mounts an...

“…

No matter what school you choose be sure to get involved in some way, it makes college much more enjoyable and Murray is a great place to get involved.

” – Kayley from Morganfield, KY

Located in the Appalachian Mountains, Lincoln Memorial University is a liberal arts college in northeast Tennessee. LMU offers over 30 bachelor’s degree programs including one of the only Conservation Biology majors in the United States. To ease the...

“…

It is a great school with excellent educational opportunities. However the technology is slow and unreliable. Also it is extremely expensive and is located in an area that is low income so they should find ways to lower tuition.

” – Ashley from Morristown, TN

Founded in 1853, Arcadia University is a 4-year private institution in the Philadelphia metro area. The Arcadia campus hosts six colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees, including the College of Global Studies which oversees study...

“…

I have learned so much since being at Arcadia, not just facts I need to know for my major but I have been able to learn a lot about myself and other important things. My knowledge has expanded so much thanks to the help of my professors.

” – Theodora from Warren, NJ

Berry College is a 4-year liberal arts institution located in Mount Berry, Georgia. Berry became a 4-year, coeducational college in 1926 and has since grown to offer 42 majors and 38 minors for its undergraduate degree population through four schools...

“…

I am applying what I learn in my animal sciences classes directly into the Dairy where I work. Everything from their nutrition, calving, vaccinations, and surgeries are done first hand by the students. We learn the way things are done in the room...

” – Colleen from Linwood, KS

Middle Tennessee State University is a 4-year public institution in central Tennessee founded in 1911. MTSU is home to eight colleges granting undergraduate degrees in over 140 academic programs as well as the first Honors College in the state. To...

“…

The college courses that I am currently enrolled in make me try my best and learn all I can in them. The professors try to actually make the classes interesting so students will want to return.

” – Jessica from Lewisburg, TN

With campus overlooking Lake Superior, Northern Michigan University is a public school and the largest university in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. NMU confers undergrad and graduate degrees in 177 academic programs and all students receive either a...

“…

The teachers are so helpful. They will come in early or stay late in their office if you can't make their hours. When you ask a question they do their best to answer it. I even had teachers who would look it up and the answer it the next class. Some...

” – Bryanne from Canton, MI

The University of Southern Mississippi is a 4-year public school in southeast Mississippi. Southern Miss is home to colleges of Arts & Sciences, Business, Education, and Nursing as well as the sixth-oldest acceptance-based Honors College in the...

“…

The Professors here are really dedicated to making sure the students understand the material. The classes are fun and easy to get to.

” – Janna from Slidell, LA

With campus a short distance from Utah Lake, Utah Valley University is a public school in northern Utah and the largest public university in the state. UVU is a dual mission institution combining a teaching university and community college to confer...

“…

I LOVE going to school here! The Professors are fantastic! Every class I have had thus far has been taught by highly respected individuals; everyone has at least one Master's and they have all had experience working in their field! The class room...

” – Sarah from Pleasant Grove, UT

Named after President Franklin D. Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor, Roosevelt University is a private institution in Chicago with a dedication to social justice. Roosevelt offers over 70 undergraduate majors and 15 graduate and doctoral programs at...

“…

The students ans staff are great. Everyone is friendly, and willing to help in whatever they can.

” – Nancy from Chicago, IL

Founded by the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters, Dominican University is a Catholic institution in the Chicagoland area. Dominican is home to seven colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in 65 academic majors. As a Catholic university...

“…

In my experience, I have not attend other schools so this is based on just my experience in this school The reason that I rate learning a lot 5 of 5 is: almost all the classes were very fun as well informative. to make sure you get this 5 out of 5 is...

” – Roberto from River Grove, IL

The University of St. Thomas is a 4-year private institution and the only Catholic university in Houston. St. Thomas confers undergraduate degrees in over 35 academic majors and the university has been designated an Hispanic-serving institution. As a...

“…

This is an amazing school. I have learned so much. My faith has also been enhanced. They really stress the balance between faith and reason. The professors really care about who you are. You are not just a number, but a person. They enjoy teaching...

” – Karen, Houston, TX

New York Institute of Technology is a private university with campuses on Long Island and New York City. New York Tech is home to six schools and colleges conferring degrees in over 90 career-centered academic programs. Additionally, New York Tech...

“…

I was truly impressed by innovative facilities and how my questions were answered in a friendly manner. I was impressed by their well-presented computer-engineering workshop. The teachers explained everything on what to do and what not. They also...

” – Hector from Bay Shore, NY

The University of Minnesota Duluth is a research institution located in Minnesota’s fourth largest city. Founded in 1895 as the Duluth Normal School, this medium-sized campus for a large university has grown since its humble beginnings as a teacher’s...

“…

umd is a fantastic but underrated school. not many people know about it outside of minnesota and wisconsin, and even fewer consider it during their college search, but it is a wonderful school nonetheless. it has miles of trails, a great city down...

” – Jill from Grayslake, IL

Named for the famed city it resides in, the University of New Orleans is a 4-year, urban research institution on a 195-acre campus near the French Quarter in Louisiana. UNO is one of only two institutions in the state labeled a Research University by...

“…

While many people believe that graduating from a bigger name school (ie Tulane, Loyola, LSU) means a better education, UNO is right on par. Many of my professors and instructors teach at Tulane and Loyola as well. I have been learning a good bit in...

” – Billal from Chalmette, LA

Founded in 1866, The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) is one of the most historically significant accredited independent schools of art and design in the world. SAIC is consistently ranked among the top art and design schools by QS World...

“…

If there is anything I am learning about the art world at SAIC, its everything! Experimenting in different mediums and art types is daily routine. Film, sculpture, plaster, and sound are just a few things that I have dipped my hands into since being...

” – Cassie from Papillion, NE

The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina is a public institution and senior military college in Charleston. The Citadel confers undergrad degrees in 23 academic majors and all students become part of the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. In...

“…

It's one of the most challenging places. If you want to make something of yourself and actually learn something come to the Citadel, but be it takes some thick skin to excel. It's a great school with an amazing alumni network. If you want a different...

” – george from Athens, GA

Originally established in 1873 as Springfield College, Drury University is a liberal arts college based in southwest Missouri. DU is home to the Your Drury Fusion academic program combining professionally-oriented majors with concentrations in purely...

“…

Drury University is a small, private, liberal arts college in the heart of the Midwest. The area is beautiful and provides the perfect environment for a great education. The staff and faculty are very helpful and truly care about the education and...

” – Brianna from Springfield, MO

Named an “America’s Best College” in the south for more than 10 consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report, Jacksonville University is a premier private institution in northeast Florida. Founded in 1934, JU offers more than 100 majors, minors, and...

“…

My classes are amazing! The teachers are very responsive to the students and don't mind you asking question if you don't understand something. Even if you send them an email, it is usually answered within 24 hours. As a Biology student, having the St...

” – Robyn from Jacksonville, FL

Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1877, Regis University is a Jesuit Catholic institution in Denver. Situated against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Regis is home to five colleges and 184 degree-granting programs. As a Jesuit university, Regis...

“…

All of my classes have been taught by brilliant and passionate professors who really care about teaching and want students to succeed, both on tests and in life. Regis provides you with a challenging academic curriculum, but professors and tutors are...

” – Joanna from Pueblo, CO