Is 36 a Good ACT Score? Test Insights + Tips

A 36 ACT score is an exceptional score. This perfect ACT score places you at the very top of all test takers—well above the national average of around 20—and meets or exceeds the admissions criteria for even the most selective colleges in the country.

That said, a strong test score is just one part of a competitive application, and it’s important to understand how to leverage it effectively. In this blog, we’ll break down what a 36 ACT score really means, how it can impact your college admissions journey, which schools it puts within reach, and how to strengthen the rest of your application.

• How Good Is a 36 ACT Score?
• Colleges You Can Get into with a 36 ACT Score
• Should You Retake the ACT?
• How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT Score
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Good Is a 36 ACT Score?

Scoring a 36 on the ACT is an outstanding achievement—it places you in the 100th percentile, meaning you outperformed nearly every other test-taker nationwide.

A perfect score demonstrates exceptional academic strength across all tested areas and signals to colleges that you’re well-prepared for rigorous coursework. With a 36 ACT score, you’re highly competitive at a wide range of schools, including the Ivy League and other top-tier institutions.

To give you a better idea of where you stand, here’s how your 36 ACT score compares to the typical score ranges of students admitted to Ivy League schools:

As you can see, a 36 ACT score places you at the top of the typical range (32 to 36) for the nation’s most selective colleges. That’s a major advantage—but remember, even with a perfect score, admissions decisions are about more than just numbers.

Colleges also take a close look at your GPA, extracurricular involvement, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. With many schools now test-optional, your 36 SAT score certainly helps, but it’s your full story that truly sets you apart. This is the time to highlight your leadership, unique achievements, and the experiences that define you—because at the most competitive schools, strong academics are just the starting point.

36 ACT percentile

Is 36 a good ACT score? Definitely! Let’s break it down even more:

When you break it down by section, a 36 ACT score reflects exceptional strength across every subject area. Scoring a perfect 36 in English and Reading showcases elite-level comprehension, writing, and critical thinking skills—particularly valuable if you’re aiming for majors in the humanities or social sciences.

Meanwhile, earning a 36 in Math and Science demonstrates top-tier quantitative reasoning and analytical abilities, making you a strong candidate for STEM-focused programs as well. Overall, your score signals academic excellence across the board.

36 ACT to SAT equivalent

If you’re wondering how your 36 ACT score compares to the SAT, it translates to about 1590. Some colleges let you submit either an ACT or SAT score, so knowing how they compare can help you decide which best represents your strengths.

Colleges You Can Get into with a 36 ACT Score

With a perfect ACT score of 36, you’re in an elite group of test-takers, and many top colleges will take notice. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best schools where a 36 ACT score can give you a strong edge in the admissions process:

1. Brown University

Acceptance rate: 5.4%
ACT range: 34-36

Brown’s Open Curriculum lets you build your own academic path without traditional general education requirements. It’s a dream for intellectually curious students who want to explore multiple fields.

With a 36 ACT, you already show the kind of academic strength Brown looks for. If you value academic freedom and cross-disciplinary learning, this could be your perfect match—just be ready to propose your path to faculty for approval if pursuing a unique concentration.

2. Harvard University

Acceptance rate: 3.6%
ACT range: 34-36

The most selective Ivy, Harvard values top-tier academic profiles like yours. A 36 ACT doesn’t guarantee admission, but it definitely strengthens your odds.

Harvard’s broad liberal arts curriculum, generous financial aid, and globally recognized programs in government, business, and the sciences make it a prime destination for ambitious students. It’s also a launchpad for future leaders—including heads of state and Nobel laureates.

3. Columbia University

Acceptance rate: 3.85%
ACT range: 34-36

At Columbia, all undergrads complete the Core Curriculum—a set of foundational courses in literature, philosophy, art, and more. It’s a great fit if you enjoy structured learning that still allows deep exploration.

Columbia’s vibrant New York City setting and focus on diversity attract high-achieving students from all over the world—and your perfect ACT score fits right in with their academic profile.

4. Cornell University

Acceptance rate: 8.4%
ACT range: 33-36

Cornell is often seen as the most accessible Ivy, but don’t be fooled—it’s still highly competitive. Your 36 ACT will definitely help in standing out among applicants.

With over 4,000 courses and strong programs in everything from hotel management to engineering and life sciences, Cornell supports students who want a well-rounded and customizable education across its diverse colleges.

5. University of Pennsylvania

Acceptance rate: 5.4%
ACT range: 33-36

A 36 ACT score is a great asset when applying to UPenn, especially if you’re aiming for prestigious programs like Wharton for business or the Huntsman Program for international studies.

UPenn’s interdisciplinary culture, supported by initiatives like Coordinated Dual-Degree, Accelerated, and Specialized Programs, allows you to pursue multiple interests and gain real-world experience through research, community service, and global studies.

6. Yale University

Acceptance rate: 3.7%
ACT range: 33-36

At Yale, a 36 ACT score puts you in the running for one of the most intellectually driven and community-oriented Ivy League schools.

Whether you’re drawn to Directed Studies, cutting-edge science facilities, or Yale’s residential college system that promotes tight-knit communities, this is a place where scholars thrive. It’s also home to Yale Law, for those with long-term legal ambitions.

7. Dartmouth College

Acceptance rate: 5.3%
ACT range: 32-36

Dartmouth offers the intimacy of a liberal arts college with the resources of a major research university. A 36 ACT helps you compete for its top-notch programs in government, economics, environmental studies, and engineering.

The unique D-Plan allows for flexible study schedules and off-campus experiences, while traditions like the Winter Carnival and Green Key Weekend promote a strong student culture.

8. Princeton University

Acceptance rate: 4.6%
ACT range: 34-36

Regularly ranked #1 in national university rankings, Princeton combines world-class research with a strong focus on undergraduate education. A 36 ACT score will position you as a top-tier candidate.

Princeton is known for small class sizes, generous financial aid, and leading departments in mathematics, physics, public policy, and humanities. Plus, its commitment to hiring top faculty means you’ll learn from the best in every field.

9. Duke University

Acceptance rate: 5.1%
ACT range: 33-36

Duke University offers top-tier academics, competitive athletics, and Southern character. Duke is especially strong in biomedical engineering, law, public policy, and pre-med—making it a solid choice for future doctors and policy leaders.

School spirit runs deep, especially during basketball season. The Cameron Crazies, Duke’s spirited student section, bring energy to every game at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

10. Stanford University

Acceptance rate: 3.9%
ACT range: 34-36

Stanford is an incubator for entrepreneurs, tech pioneers, and future changemakers. Its world-renowned programs in computer science, engineering, and business consistently rank among the best globally, and its ties to powerhouse companies like Google, Tesla, and Netflix make it a magnet for ambitious innovators.

While Stanford’s sun-soaked campus and relaxed California vibe may feel worlds away from the formality of the East Coast Ivies, don’t be misled—it’s every bit as selective and intellectually rigorous.

Should You Retake the ACT?

With a perfect 36 ACT score, you’ve already achieved the highest possible mark—an incredible accomplishment that puts you in the top 1% of test-takers nationwide. Retaking the exam likely won’t provide additional benefit, especially since there’s no room for improvement.

Instead, your time and energy may be better spent strengthening other key parts of your application. Focus on maintaining or boosting your GPA, building a standout extracurricular profile, writing compelling essays, and securing strong recommendation letters.

Also, keep in mind that many colleges are now test-optional, meaning you have flexibility in how you present your academic strengths. Still, a 36 ACT score is an impressive asset to include.

Your next steps should align with your college list and overall application strategy. Consider speaking with your school counselor, an admissions advisor, or a test prep expert to make sure you’re making the most of your standout score.

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT Score

A 36 ACT score is as high as it gets—an extraordinary accomplishment that places you in the 100th percentile nationwide. Here are five tips to help you aim for that perfect ACT score:

1. Master time management.

Did you know that the average time per question on the ACT is about 49 seconds? The ACT is a race against the clock, so pacing yourself is key. That means efficient time management is crucial.

Practice with timed tests to get comfortable with the pace and build your speed. This strategy helps ensure you don’t get stuck on any one question and can tackle each section effectively.

2. Focus on high-yield topics.

Not all sections of the ACT are created equal. For instance, the Math section heavily emphasizes algebra and geometry. These two topics alone can cover over 30% of the Math questions. By mastering these core concepts first, you build a strong foundation to handle more complex problems. Focus your study efforts where they’ll have the most impact!

3. Utilize official ACT prep materials.

The ACT releases official practice tests and study guides that closely mirror the actual exam. Students who primarily use official ACT prep materials tend to perform better on the test. These resources not only familiarize you with the test format but also provide authentic practice questions that align closely with what you’ll see on test day.

The ACT is made up of four required sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, with an optional Writing (essay) section. The test takes just under 3 hours without the essay, or about 3 hours and 35 minutes with it.

You’ll start with English (75 questions in 45 minutes), which focuses on grammar, punctuation, and writing style. Next is Math (60 questions in 60 minutes), covering algebra, geometry, and a bit of trigonometry—with a calculator allowed. Reading and Science are shorter (40 questions each in 35 minutes), testing your ability to quickly understand passages and interpret data and experiments.

The optional essay adds 40 minutes and asks you to take a position on an issue and support it with clear reasoning. While some schools require it, many don’t—so check before signing up.

4. Develop test-taking strategies.

Did you know that strategic guessing can actually boost your score? The ACT doesn’t penalize wrong answers, so it’s beneficial to make educated guesses rather than leaving questions blank.

Additionally, knowing when to skip a tough question and come back to it later can save valuable time and reduce stress during the exam.

5. Stay mentally and physically prepared.

Test day is not just about what you know but also how you feel. Getting enough sleep and eating a balanced breakfast on the morning of the test can positively impact your performance. A rested and focused mind is better equipped to handle the cognitive demands of the ACT.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How rare is getting a 36 on the ACT?

Getting a 36 on the ACT is extremely rare—but definitely achievable with the right preparation. According to official ACT data, only about 0.2 of all test-takers earn a perfect composite score each year.

2. What is a good ACT score?

A “good” ACT score really depends on your goals. In general, the national average ACT score is around 19–20. So if you’re scoring above that—like a 25—you’re already doing better than most test-takers. If you’re aiming for competitive schools, a score in the high 20s or low 30s will put you in a stronger position. For Ivy League and top-tier universities, you’re usually looking at a 32 or higher.

3. What is a 36 ACT to SAT score?

A 36 ACT score is about 1590 on the SAT.

Takeaways

• A perfect 36 ACT score not only places you in the top 1% of all test takers but also signals to colleges that you’ve mastered every section of the exam.
• Some of the best schools you can apply to with a 36 ACT score include Ivy League schools, as well as Duke and Stanford.
• To truly stand out, you’ll need a well-rounded application that highlights your academic achievements, personal strengths, and unique story. Use your 36 ACT score as a springboard—not a finish line.
• Want to improve your ACT score and increase your chances of getting into Ivies and other top universities? Check out our SAT and ACT tutoring services for personalized and expert guidance.