<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

Earlham College is a liberal arts institution situated in Richmond, IN. Earlham grounds their curricula in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences, emphasizing intellectual and practical skills, personal and social responsibility, and...

“…

Amazing and wonderful school with a great pride in community and friendship. Very academically rigorous and quite rewarding. A large variety of classes and majors are available with very helpful professors to guide you throughout your time here

” – Hosanna from Richmond, IN

With campus along the banks of the Chippewa River, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is a 4-year public university and a regional UW campus in northwest Wisconsin. UWEC is home to colleges of Business, Education, Arts & Sciences, and Nursing...

“…

For a smaller university, UWEC offers a really wide range of classes. You can study anatomy, geology, and modern dance all in one day if you want. Professors are very passionate and really go out of their way to make sure students understand...

” – Ally from Madison, WI

St. Lawrence University is a liberal arts college on the border of New York State and Canada. The Canton, NY, campus consist of 94 buildings on 1,000 acres that provide students with 69 majors and the option to design a program through St. Lawrence’s...

“…

There’s no doubt that St. Lawrence offers plenty of opportunities and experiences that get students learning, growing, and living to their best potential. The administration, advisors, and all professors are extremely accessible and willing to help...

” – Marilyn from Huntington Park, CA

The University of Michigan-Dearborn is a public university and a regional campus of the U of M system in the Detroit metro area. UM-Dearborn is home to four colleges of Business, Education, Engineering, and Arts & Sciences offering 75 bachelor’s...

“…

My biology class had many interactive lab projects and we gathered information form outdoors and around the lab itself. That class gives you more information to learn and helps you understand plants, animals and all other living creatures better. My...

” – Rachel from Redford, MI

Originally founded as Baptist College, Charleston Southern University is a Christian school in the greater Charleston area and the only Christian college in South Carolina’s Lowcountry region. CSU grants undergraduate degrees in over 50 academic...

“…

Great faculty and diversity in course selection.

” – Martin from Saint Louis, MO

Founded in 1896, Clarkson University is a 4-year private school in northern New York State. Clarkson confers undergraduate degrees in over 60 academic fields of study. Additionally, the university hosts the SPEED program providing the opportunity to...

“…

This college is very demanding when it comes to some subjects and very laid back when it comes to others. The big 3 courses, physics, chemistry, and calculus, serve as a filter for the students. If you can't keep up and learn the material, you...

” – Dylan from Fort Edward, NY

Founded in 1882, the University of Findlay is a private institution based in Findlay, OH. UF is affiliated with the Churches of God General Conference and is rated as having “more selective” admissions. The school offers liberal arts-based degree...

“…

The classes are really small for the most part. I am a Pre-vet student, it's a popular major here so the classes get filled up quickly and are really full. They almost always open up another class to choose. The professors care about the students and...

” – Jessica from Wauseon, OH

Wentworth Institute of Technology is 4-year college in Boston, Massachusetts. Wentworth is comprised of four colleges: Architecture, Design, and Construction Management; Arts and Sciences; Engineering and Computer Science; and Professional and...

“…

The classes are a constant challenge. Everyday is a day full of knowledge.

” – Danielle from Atkinson, NH

Carroll University is a selective liberal arts college located Waukesha, Wisconsin, with an affiliation to the Presbyterian Church. Established in 1846, Carroll University was the first 4-year higher learning institution in the state and began with...

“…

On average, the class sizes are about the size of a high school class (20-30 students), which means each student has a better opportunity to talk to their professor. I am someone who really likes science, so I really enjoy how the science labs have...

” – Erin from Appleton, WI

Affiliated with the Church of the Brethren, Elizabethtown College is a private institution in south central Pennsylvania. Elizabethtown confers degrees in 56 academic fields of study and offers 100 minors and concentrations. With a focus on...

“…

The campus is absolutely gorgeous. It's great spending time after a theatre class just laying out on the Dell sunbathing and catching up with friends. Everyone here is extremely friendly and helpful; you'll never feel alone.

” – Beth

Originally founded as The School of Automobile Trades, Kettering University is a 4-year private school in eastern Michigan. Kettering awards bachelor’s degrees in 13 academic programs with a STEM-centered focus. In addition to classroom facilities...

“…

I haven't had a professor I couldn't understand, and classes are small enough that I can ask the professor any questions I have, and they all know me by name.

” – Zachary from Defiance, OH

Marywood University is a liberal arts institution affiliated with the Roman Catholic church that’s located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Marywood University’s 115-acre campus houses three colleges, the College of Arts & Sciences, the College of...

“…

The professors here are amazing. They are friendly and well-versed in the subjects that they teach. When they say you can come to them if you have any problems or need any extra help, they sincerely mean it.

” – Suzanne from Meshoppen, PA

Webster University is a private institution based in Webster Groves, Missouri. Webster operates campuses around the nation and abroad, in countries such as Ghana, the Netherlands, Thailand, and Greece, that students may transfer to for a semester...

“…

webster exudes an open atmosphere filled with people that are easy to get along with. the staff is friendly, and personable, and the education quality is top-knotch.

” – Lowell from Saint Louis, MO

College placeholder image

Founded in 1856, Mars Hill University is a 4-year Christian liberal arts college in western North Carolina and the region’s oldest institution of higher learning operating on its original site. Nestled among the mountains, Mars Hill confers bachelor...

“…

The classes are small so the professors really pay attention to you and help you out.

” – Libby from MA

College placeholder image

Formed by the merger of two junior college, Harding University is a 4-year Christian liberal arts college in northern Arkansas. Affiliated with the Churches of Christ, Harding confers bachelor’s degrees in more than 100 academic majors and minors. As...

“…

Harding offers such a wonderful variety of classes to choose from, and the teaching is exceptional. The teachers are extremely caring and understanding to the students' needs at all times. They take their time to go through all of the material...

” – Kristin from Miami, FL

Luther College is a destination for the active and actively involved. Located in northeast Iowa, with learning opportunities around the world, we encourage curiosity, community, and a commitment to the common good. The Luther curriculum emphasizes...

“…

Almost every department takes pride and enjoyment in teaching students everything they came to learn as well as a good deal they did not sign up for. Most students are pleasantly surprised by the faculty's desire and success in challenging what we...

” – matt from Rochester, MN

Founded in 1855 as the New Jersey State Normal School, The College of New Jersey is a 4-year public institution in the Trenton area. TCNJ is home to seven colleges and schools including the oldest teacher-training program in the state.  Today it is...

“…

College does change an individual, and I certainly am no exception. I went to TCNJ expecting to gain better writing skills and become immersed in learning about the journalistic world. In actuality, the real learning came from outside the classroom...

” – Brianna from Matawan, NJ

Originally founded as a normal school, East Tennessee State University is a 4-year public university and part of the State University and Community College System of Tennessee. ETSU is home to 11 colleges and schools granting undergraduate degrees...

“…

I have learned a lot in the classes I have taken so far. I really learned a lot in my computer class and have enjoyed my teachers thus far. After taking sociology class, I decided to take more sociology in the future possibly making it a minor.

” – Morgan from Bluff City, TN

Nestled in the Santa Barbara foothills, Westmont College is a Christian liberal arts college in southern California. Westmont confers bachelor’s degrees in 26 fields of study and is also home to 11 pre-professional academic programs. As a Christian...

“…

Westmont has a really talented, engaging body of faculty members. They are willing to engage with students and strike a really good balance between sharing their expertise and letting students expand and share their ideas. Of course, a lot of this...

Founded in 1846, Taylor University is a private institution and one of the oldest evangelical Christian colleges in the nation. The school is based in Upland, Indiana. All students, staff, and faculty are required to resist tobacco, alcohol, and drug...

“…

Taylor is a great place to learn. Taylor makes sure you have knowledge in a broad spectrum of subjects while still focusing on your own major. Professors are great. Most of them are very willing to help you outside of class and help you do well. I...

” – Heidi from Upland, IN

Champlain College is a four-year private school with a beautiful campus in the heart of Burlington, Vermont, overlooking Lake Champlain and the Adirondack mountains. Champlain offers career-focused undergraduate degrees in 33 fields of study. Its...

“…

Champlain has a lot of great teachers that don't hesitate to take their personal time to make you the best you can be. Whenever people said that I'd always think they were being paid but honestly it's true. It's only been one year but I've improved a...

” – Amber from Warren, RI

Founded in 1842, Roanoke College is a 4-year liberal arts institution, the second-oldest Lutheran-affiliated college in America. Roanoke offers over 100 areas of study on its Salem, Virginia, campus, all of which are complemented by a core curriculum...

“…

The teachers on campus try and reach every student. You have to want to learn! The teachers aren't going to bother with someone who doesn't want to learn.

” – Dayla from Pomfret, MD

Simmons University is a private, liberal arts university located in Boston, Massachusetts. Simmons offers a women’s undergraduate education in 60+ majors and programs, as well as four graduate schools for its co-ed graduate population. The university...

“…

My classes at Simmons have proved to be exciting and stimulating, and there are also a lot of social opportunities at Simmons. This includes frequent events such as plays, movie nights, sporting events, city outings, special guests and more. Not to...

” – Anne from Philadelphia

College placeholder image

Albion College is a private liberal arts college associated with the United Methodist Church, though the institution is committed to religious diversity and non-discrimination. It is included in the 2019 Top 100 Liberal Arts Colleges in the US...

“…

I'll be a sophomore for the 2009-2010 school year. The classes I took last year were mainly the basic classes for starting your science major and I felt like I was learning a lot and it was challenging but manageable.

” – Ashley from Waterford, MI

Founded by the Church of the Nazarene in 1902, Point Loma Nazarene University is a Christian liberal arts college in San Diego. PLU offers undergraduate degrees in over 60 fields of study and the university’s Office of Strengths and Vocation provides...

“…

The school has a great academic atmosphere. Because of the policy prohibiting drugs or alcohol on campus, students can focus on learning and enjoy their studies in a healthy environment. The school provides great opportunities for extra-curricular...

” – Adam Corfman from San Diego, CA

Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, Oklahoma City University is a 4-year liberal arts and sciences university in Oklahoma’s capital city. OKCU hosts 10 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 70 academic majors. For...

“…

I feel that I am challenged by several of my teachers. My English composition teacher Ms. Keller really helped me learn how to write a cohesive and interesting essay. My public speaking teacher helped me get over my fear of formally speaking in front...

” – Shavonne from Oklahoma City, OK

Founded in 1907, Olivet Nazarene University is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. Olivet Nazarene confers bachelor’s degrees in over 140 academic areas of study. As a Christian institution, ONU holds twice...

“…

Because I was an undeclared major my freshman year I took a lot of different classes. I learned a lot of things in all of them. All the teachers that I had were very good and really cared about their students.

” – Andy from Peoria, IL

Morehead State University is a public institution situated at the base of the Daniel Boone National Forest in Morehead, Kentucky. MSU has one of only five space science programs in the nation and offers all students a chance for undergraduate...

“…

Love this school...not to small yet its right between home and Lexington. Campus is beautiful the lake is gorgeous. The housing on campus is getting updated and renovated, to make it more modern. Morehead is AHMAZING!!!

” – Jenna from Ashland, KY

Xavier University of Louisiana is an historically black college and university (HBCU) located in New Orleans. This 4-year, liberal arts institution is one of 10 to receive a Building Infrastructures Leading to Diversity (BUILD) award for their...

“…

At Xavier professors care, they are always available to you. Xavier being a small school your classes are a lot smaller and you get the chance to interact with your professors and really get an understanding of what they are teaching. Also when you...

” – Antoinette from Washington, DC

Founded in 1907, the University of Central Arkansas is a 4-year public school and one of the oldest universities in the state. UCA awards undergraduate degrees in 86 academic programs and is one of the largest producers of teachers in Arkansas. For...

“…

I am a second semester freshman. In the classes i have taken so far, I have learned so much! The science department here is a really great one. If you are struggling in any of your classes there are people, including your professors that are here and...

” – Megan from Sherwood, AR

Saint Mary’s College is a private, Catholic, women’s college in Notre Dame, IN with a focus on “creating leaders & women of action.” The college offers more than 50 academic programs, which include six nationally accredited programs, and four...

“…

My current intended major is Nursing, but I'm learning so many other great things that I feel more informed about the world than ever before. Not only is St. Mary's good at teaching her students about the past, but also on keeping us updated about...

” – Allison from Battle Creek, MI

Founded by the Reformed Presbyterian Church in 1887, Cedarville University is a 4-year Baptist school in southwest Ohio. Cedarville offers undergraduate degrees in more than 150 biblically integrated academic programs and each program features a...

“…

Cedarville University has much to offer its students in everything from academics to volunteer ministry opportunities. Its faculty are all top notch, with most having their doctorate in their chosen fields. They are all passionate about teaching and...

” – Melody from De Pere, WI

Truman State University is a 4-year public liberal arts college in northeast Missouri. Truman confers bachelor’s degrees in 36 academic majors and its Liberal Studies program combines “traditional learning” and “personal investigation.” Truman hosts...

“…

There is a wide selection of classes to choose from and while it is sometimes difficult to get into a desired class there are many more options open. The smaller class sizes really allow you to interact better with your teacher and so get more out of...

” – Keara from Wildwood, MO

Northern Kentucky University is a 4-year public university in the greater Cincinnati area. NKU confers bachelor’s degrees in over 70 academic fields of study. In addition to classroom facilities, the Northern Kentucky campus is home to a laser...

“…

The school is quickly becoming well-known for its academics now more than ever.

” – Olivia from Cincinnati, OH

Molloy University is a coeducational Catholic institution on Long Island. Molloy confers degrees in over 50 undergrad and graduate programs and the college is home to one of the largest nursing programs in the United States. As a Catholic university...

“…

At Molloy, you have to be try to not get involved in the campus life. There is always a ton of events going on and although it is a small school, the campus life is easily comparable to any larger school. I have been given opportunities here that I...

” – Robert from Smithtown, NY

Founded in 1842, Willamette University is a liberal arts institution in northwest Oregon and the oldest university in the western half of the United States. Willamette’s College of Liberal Arts offers undergraduate degrees in over 40 academic fields...

“…

Each day at Willamette I have anywhere from two to five hours of class, at least this semester, and for each class I come out learning something new. Of course some days I learn more than others, but everyday I go to class I know that I will learn a...

” – Zachery from California

Founded by The Society of Jesus, Le Moyne College is a Jesuit institution in Syracuse, NY. The first co-ed Jesuit college in the United States, Le Moyne offers degrees in over 100 majors, minors and special programs. For students interested in the...

“…

At Le Moyne since it is a small school all the teachers know you on a personal level, and are very understanding. Teachers make sure that you are understanding the lessons and if you need extra help most of the time they are available for help during...

” – Kristin from Putnam Valley, NY

Hanover College’s campus is nestled along the banks of the scenic Ohio River. Founded in 1827, Hanover is the oldest private college in Indiana. Our stunning natural campus is just an easy drive from one of 3 major metropolitan areas- Indianapolis...

“…

Hanover is more than a college, it's a community. I've never felt so accepted and welcomed in such a great environment. I feel like I wouldn't be the same person without my liberal arts education I've received here.

” – Shana from Hanover, IN

College placeholder image

The University of Dallas is a small, private Catholic institution based in Irving, Texas. The school offers programs in business, liberal arts, and ministry. A majority (approximately 80%) of students participate in the Rome study abroad programs. It...

“…

This University is definitely a challenge. You will learn to make connections between two or more subjects you're studying simultaneously, and can therefore more easily apply your knowledge to everyday life and your future career...UD is big on the...

” – Amanda from Clint, TX

Houston Christian University is a 4-year institution located on 100 acres of land just outside of its namesake town in Texas. The university promotes academic, spiritual, and academic excellence centered around their central confession “Jesus Christ...

“…

HBU has a lot to offer and has a very well rounded academic selection.

” – rohana from Houston, TX

With campus overlooking the St. Mary’s River,  St. Mary’s College of Maryland is a liberal arts institution in the Chesapeake Bay region. One of only two public honors colleges in the nation, St. Mary’s offers bachelor’s degrees in 24 academic majors...

“…

I am consistently challenged at St. Mary's. Each of my classes has been interesting and informative, even in areas that I had already studied previously. As a sophomore, I have already learned so much academically, and I've also learned a lot about...

” – Rachel from Marriottsville, MD

Founded in 1847, Saint Francis University is a Catholic liberal arts institution in western Pennsylvania and is the oldest Franciscan Catholic university in the United States. Saint Francis confers undergraduate degrees in 50+ academic fields of...

“…

Saint Francis University has been great in transitioning me from living at home, to living away from family members. The environment is very welcoming and all of the faculty and staff are more than willing to help any student in need. Saint Francis...

” – Jordan from Pittsburgh, PA

At York College of Pennsylvania, we believe that a life of passion and purpose is built by learning and experiencing every day. At York College, our approach to education is practical and experiential, focusing on real-world experiences that allow...

“…

so far i have only taken core classes but they were very useful to my major. The college will not put you in classes you don't need.

” – Hilary from West Deptford, NJ

Founded in 1889, Eastern Connecticut State University is a 4-year liberal arts institution and the third oldest public university in Connecticut. ECSU confers bachelor’s degrees in 36 academic majors and all students are required to fulfill...

“…

It's not UConn, but that's a part of its draw. I doubt you'll take any classes with more than thirty people, whereas your freshman classes at UConn might have upwards of fifty, maybe a hundred. I'm not saying it's a bad school, but UConn is a...

” – Miles from Storrs Mansfield, CT

Founded in 1855, Berea College is a liberal arts college in Kentucky and the first coed and interracial college in the south. Berea confers bachelor’s degrees in 32 academic majors and the college provides free tuition to all students through the...

“…

The professors all make sure that you are keeping up, but at the same time, you are expected to keep up to the rigorous pace they set. We currently operate on a 4-1-4 calendar year. That means that fall semester is 4 months, we have a January Short...

” – Morgan from Campbellsville, KY

Founded in 1819 and situated near the Great Smoky Mountains, Maryville College is a 4-year liberal arts college in east Tennessee. Maryville confers bachelor’s degrees in more than 60 academic programs. Surrounded by a 140-acre forest, Maryville...

“…

Maryville College taught me how to write a premier college paper. MC also taught me how to manage my time through my freshman classes, faculty, and student body. Maryville College made school interesting and fun through the activities that occur in...

” – Ryan from Knoxville, TN

College placeholder image

Messiah College is a private liberal arts and sciences institution based in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. It was founded by the Brethren in Christ Church and has a “more selective” admissions process. Students are required to sign a Community Covenant...

“…

Mostly my classes have been small enough to be able to get to know the teacher, yet large enough to have a discussion that has representatives from many different worldviews. Even the lecture classes have been small, especially considering what...

” – Messiah Student, Health and Exercise Science Major

Ohio Northern University is a private institution based in Ada, OH, associated with the United Methodist Church. ONU is a sister university of a private school in Seoul, South Korea, the Dankook University. ONU offers one of the only pharmacy...

“…

Smaller school but a lot of majors to choose from. Teachers will take an interest in their students

” – HS Senior looking for the right college

The University of Maryland-Baltimore County is a 4-year public institution based in Baltimore and part of the University of Maryland system. UMBC is home to seven colleges and schools hosting over 55 undergraduate degree-granting programs. In...

“…

I did not expect to learn much due to entering this college with AP credits, but I have still learned many new things due to the immense variety of classes. In my internship, 90% or more of my daily activities were taught.

” – Roxanne from Glen Burnie, MD

Founded in 1885, Goucher College is a private liberal arts institution based in Towson, Maryland. Goucher College places academic focuses on the “3Rs: Relationships, Resilience, and Reflection.” The campus is listed on the National Register of...

“…

Goucher is a place where students honestly learn as much inside as outside the classroom about people, society, and our country's role in the world. My professors were all incredibly accessible and ready to answer any questions i had and offer any...

” – Grace from Philadelphia, PA