For many high school seniors, applying for scholarships can feel overwhelming—or like pulling teeth, as some educators might say. Parents may find themselves just as stressed, wondering how to motivate their child(ren) to take action. But here’s the good news: there’s a clear, accessible path to scholarship dollars that many students and families may not even realize exists.
The ACT is not only a college entrance exam—it can also be a powerful tool for unlocking scholarship opportunities. In fact, ACT has compiled a list of more than 80 scholarships from across the United States that use a student’s ACT score as a key factor in awarding funds.
These scholarships cater to a wide range of learners with varying score requirements, making them accessible to students with diverse academic profiles. From large public universities like Ohio State University, Florida Gulf Coast University, and Georgia State to prominent Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) like Howard University and Florida A&M University, as well as prestigious institutions such as the U.S. Air Force Academy —there are options for everyone.
Whatever a student’s goals are, there’s a real incentive to prepare and perform well on the ACT. For some, a little extra effort can lead to thousands of dollars in financial support, reducing college costs and opening doors to educational dreams.
So if you’re working with students—or are a parent or guardian—encourage them to view the ACT as more than a test. It’s an opportunity. And with the right preparation, it could be one that pays off—literally.
See more to learn about our scholarship opportunities for students.