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The Krupnick Approach's Comprehensive Guide to Deleting ACT Scores

As college consultants at The Krupnick Approach, we often field questions about managing standardized test scores.

As college consultants at The Krupnick Approach, we often field questions about managing standardized test scores. One common query is, “Can I delete my ACT scores?” The answer is a resounding yes, and in this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about deleting ACT scores.

Table of Contents

  1. Understanding ACT Score Deletion
  2. Why Delete ACT Scores?
  3. Step-by-Step Guide to Deleting ACT Scores
  4. The Impact of Deleting ACT Scores
  5. ACT Score Deletion vs. SAT Score Policies
  6. Strategic Considerations for Score Deletion
  7. Frequently Asked Questions
  8. The Krupnick Approach’s Expert Advice
  9. Conclusion: Empowering Your College Application Strategy

Understanding ACT Score Deletion

Before we dive into the process of deleting ACT scores, it’s crucial to understand what this option entails and how it differs from other score reporting policies.

What Does It Mean to Delete ACT Scores?

When you delete an ACT score, you’re essentially erasing that particular test record from ACT’s database. This means:

  • The scores from that test date will no longer be available to you or any institutions.
  • The deleted scores cannot be recovered or reinstated later.
  • Any colleges or organizations that previously received these scores will be notified of the deletion.

Score Deletion vs. Score Choice

It’s important to distinguish between score deletion and the ACT’s Score Choice option:

  • Score Choice: Allows you to choose which test dates to send to colleges when you’re reporting scores.
  • Score Deletion: Permanently removes the scores from your record, making them unavailable for any future reporting.

Why Delete ACT Scores?

There are several reasons why a student might consider deleting their ACT scores:

Improving Your Score Profile

If you’ve taken the ACT multiple times and have significantly lower scores from earlier attempts, deleting these scores can present a stronger overall testing profile to colleges.

Reducing Test Anxiety

Knowing that you have the option to delete scores can alleviate some of the pressure associated with test-taking, potentially leading to better performance.

Strategic Application Planning

In some cases, strategically deleting certain scores might align better with your overall college application strategy, especially for schools that require all scores to be submitted.

Starting Fresh

If you took the ACT early in your high school career and feel the scores don’t represent your current abilities, deleting these scores allows you to start fresh.

Addressing Anomalies

If you experienced unusual circumstances during a particular test (illness, extreme anxiety, external disturbances), deleting that score can prevent it from impacting your application.

Step-by-Step Guide to Deleting ACT Scores

Deleting your ACT scores is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail. Here’s a comprehensive guide:

Option 1: Deleting Scores via Email
  1. Compose an Email: Address your email to act-cares@act.org.
  2. Include Essential Information: In your email, provide the following details:

    • Full Name
    • Full Address
    • Date of Birth
    • ACT ID Number
    • Test Date(s) of the Scores to be Canceled

  3. Wait for Confirmation: ACT will process your request and send a confirmation email. This process may take several business days.


Sample Email Template
:

Subject: Request to Delete ACT Scores

Dear ACT Customer Service,

I am writing to request the deletion of my ACT scores from the following test date(s):

FULL NAME: [Your Full Name]
FULL ADDRESS: [Your Complete Address]
DATE OF BIRTH: [MM/DD/YYYY]
ACT I.D. #: [Your ACT ID Number]
TEST DATE(S) SCORES TO BE CANCELED: [List the specific test dates]

I understand that this action is irreversible and that the scores will be permanently removed from my record. Please confirm once this request has been processed.

Thank you for your assistance.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Option 2: Deleting Scores via Phone
  1. Call ACT Customer Service: Dial 319-337-1270.
  2. Request Score Deletion: Inform the representative that you wish to delete ACT scores.
  3. Provide Information: The representative will ask for your personal information to verify your identity.
  4. Receive Email Confirmation: ACT will send you an email to confirm your request.
  5. Reply to the Email: Respond to the email with the specific test dates you want to be deleted.
  6. Final Confirmation: ACT will process your request and send a final confirmation once the scores have been deleted.

Important Considerations:

  • Irreversibility: Once scores are deleted, they cannot be recovered. Make sure you’re certain about your decision.
  • Processing Time: Score deletion typically takes 3-5 business days to process.
  • Notification to Schools: If you’ve already sent these scores to colleges, ACT will notify them of the deletion.

The Impact of Deleting ACT Scores

Deleting ACT scores can have several implications for your college application process:

Positive Impacts:

  1. Improved Score Report: By removing lower scores, your overall ACT record may appear stronger.
  2. Tailored Applications: You can customize your score report for different colleges based on their policies and your strategic goals.
  3. Reduced Stress: Knowing you can delete scores might help you approach future tests with less anxiety.
  4. Fresh Start: Deleting early, potentially unrepresentative scores allows you to present your current capabilities more accurately.

 

Potential Drawbacks:

  1. Loss of Data: Deleted scores can’t be recovered, which might be an issue if you change your mind later.
  2. Superscore Implications: Some colleges use superscoring, which takes the highest subscores across multiple test dates. Deleting scores might affect your potential superscore.
  3. Ethical Considerations: While score deletion is allowed, some may view it as not fully transparent. Consider how it aligns with your personal values.
  4. Time and Effort: The process requires time and follow-up, which might be a factor during the busy application season.

 

ACT Score Deletion vs. SAT Score Policies

Understanding the differences between ACT and SAT score reporting policies can help you make informed decisions about your test scores:

ACT Score Policies:

  • Score Choice: You can choose which test dates to send to colleges.
  • Score Deletion: You can permanently remove scores from your record.
  • Cost: $18.50 per school per test date sent.

SAT Score Policies:

  • Score Choice: You can choose which scores to send, but some colleges require all scores.
  • No Score Deletion: The College Board does not offer an option to delete SAT scores.
  • Cost: $14 per college report (includes all scores you choose to send).

Key Differences:

  1. Deletion Option: The ability to delete scores is unique to the ACT.
  2. Reporting Flexibility: Both tests offer some form of score choice, but the ACT provides more control.
  3. Cost Structure: ACT charges per test date, while SAT charges per report.

Strategic Considerations for Score Deletion

As college consultants, we at The Krupnick Approach recommend considering the following factors when deciding whether to delete ACT scores:

College Policies

Research the score reporting policies of your target schools. Some may require all scores, while others may consider only your highest scores.

Superscoring

If your target schools superscore the ACT, consider keeping all scores to maximize your potential superscore.

An upward trend in scores can be viewed positively by admissions officers, even if earlier scores are lower.

Test Preparation Strategy

If you’re planning to retake the ACT, keeping earlier scores might help inform your preparation strategy.

Application Narrative

Consider how your score history fits into your overall application narrative. Sometimes, improvement over time can be a positive story to tell.

Timing

Be mindful of application deadlines when deciding to delete scores, as the process takes several days.

Frequently Asked Questions

To address common concerns about ACT score deletion, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions:

Q1: Can I delete just one section score from a test date?

A: No, you must delete all scores from a particular test date. You can’t selectively delete individual section scores.

Q2: Will colleges know if I've deleted scores?

A: Colleges will only know about the scores you choose to send them. They won’t be informed about deleted scores unless you had previously sent those scores to them.

Q3: How many times can I delete scores?

A: There’s no limit to how many times you can delete scores, but remember that each deletion is permanent.

Q4: Does deleting scores affect my ability to take the ACT again?

A: No, deleting scores doesn’t affect your eligibility to take the ACT in the future.

Q5: Can I delete scores after I've already sent them to colleges?

A: Yes, but keep in mind that ACT will notify those colleges that the scores have been deleted.

Q6: Is there a fee for deleting ACT scores?

A: No, ACT does not charge a fee for score deletion.

Q7: How long does it take for deleted scores to be removed from my record?

A: Typically, it takes 3-5 business days for scores to be deleted from your record.

Q8: Can I delete scores from State and District Testing?

A: No, scores used to document participation in State and District Testing cannot be deleted.

The Krupnick Approach’s Expert Advice

As experienced college consultants, we at The Krupnick Approach offer the following advice regarding ACT score deletion:

  1. Consider Your Full Application: Your ACT scores are just one part of your application. Consider how score deletion fits into your overall application strategy.
  2. Plan Ahead: If you’re considering score deletion, plan well in advance of your application deadlines to ensure you have time for the process.
  3. Be Strategic: Don’t delete scores impulsively. Carefully consider the potential impacts on your application and consult with a college consultant if you’re unsure.
  4. Keep Records: Before deleting any scores, make sure you have personal records of all your ACT attempts for your own reference.
  5. Communicate Clearly: If you have a specific reason for deleting scores (e.g., illness during a test), consider addressing this in your application if relevant.
  6. Focus on Preparation: While score deletion is a useful tool, the best strategy is thorough preparation to achieve your target score.
  7. Consider Test-Optional Policies: With the rise of test-optional admissions, consider whether score deletion is necessary or if you might benefit from not submitting scores to certain schools.

Conclusion: Empowering Your College Application Strategy

The ability to delete ACT scores provides students with a powerful tool to manage their standardized testing profile. At The Krupnick Approach, we believe that this option, when used strategically, can help students present their best selves to colleges.

Remember, while score deletion can be beneficial, it’s just one aspect of your college application journey. Focus on developing a well-rounded application that showcases your unique strengths, experiences, and potential.

As you navigate the complex world of college admissions, don’t hesitate to seek expert guidance. At The Krupnick Approach, we’re committed to helping you make informed decisions that align with your college goals and personal aspirations.

Your journey to college is unique, and your testing strategy should reflect that. Whether you choose to delete scores or not, what matters most is that you approach the process with confidence, armed with knowledge and a clear understanding of your options.

Remember, The Krupnick Approach is here to support you every step of the way. From test preparation to application strategy, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve your college dreams. Trust in your abilities, make informed choices, and move forward with confidence. Your future is bright, and we’re excited to help you realize your full potential in the college admissions process.

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