14 ACT Score: Popular Colleges You Can Get Into
Hampton and Virginia State both enroll students around a 14 ACT, and they're only two of roughly 800 colleges that match this score. You already have real options, including schools where 14 is inside the usual range. Treat it as a workable starting point you can build on.
How 14 ACT Compares Nationally
- Percentile: 11th - higher than about 11% of recent test-takers.
- National average: Near or below 21 - the typical national score.
- SAT equivalent: ~800 composite (College Board/ACT concordance).
- College options: Competitive at 802 schools (25 target, 422 reach, 355 safety).
Is a 14 ACT Score Good?
A 14 ACT will not wow every admissions office, but it's still a score you can use. Alabama A&M (14-19) and Benedict College (14-19) already overlap this range, and Kentucky State (14-20) does too.
Those are realistic targets, not long shots. You're below the national average of 21, so this is not a high score on paper. It still lines up with many smaller state universities and private colleges.
Admissions offices also weigh your GPA, essays, activities, and recommendations. Those pieces can carry as much weight as the test, especially at colleges already comfortable with a 14.
Colleges You Can Get Into with a 14 ACT
Good-fit schools for a 14 include Hampton University (13-22), Virginia State University (14-20), and Alabama A&M University (14-19). Miami Dade College and Utah Valley University give you much stronger odds if you want a backup.
Target Schools (Competitive Chance of Admission)
A 14 already falls inside the middle 50% at Hampton University (13-22) and Virginia State University (14-20). You have a good shot at schools in this group.
Reach Schools (Lower Admission Chance)
Georgia State University (19-26) and Texas State University (19-25) typically enroll students with higher ACTs. Your 14 is below those bands, so these are possible but tougher.
Safety Schools (Very High Chance of Admission)
More than 350 colleges belong in this safer group. Miami Dade College and Valencia College are accessible options where your odds look strong.
View the full list of colleges that accept a 14 ACT
Top Choices in Popular U.S. States
Browse colleges for a 14 ACT in popular states:
Local Options for a 14 ACT
View by state:
Should you retake the ACT if you have a 14?
A retake is usually worth it with a 14 ACT. Even a 1 or 2 point gain can move you into range at more state universities. If you have another test date before you apply, that time is well spent.
| Pros of retaking | Cons of retaking |
|---|---|
| May open more selective public universities | Time away from grades and activities |
| Even 1-2 extra points expand your options | Another sitting costs money and energy |
| Helps if you want a better-known state school | Score jumps take real practice, not luck |
With focused prep, students often gain about 1-2 ACT composite points. Work through official practice tests, review the sections that dragged you down, and give yourself a few weeks of consistent study. A tutor or prep class can help if self-study has not clicked.
You can apply with a 14 now, or use the next test date to try for a higher score.
14 ACT to SAT Equivalent Conversion
Colleges use concordance tables to compare SAT and ACT scores. The following table shows the 14 ACT to SAT equivalent and nearby scores for context. These conversions are approximate.
| ACT Score | SAT Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 14 | 800 |
| 15 | 850 |
| 16 | 890 |
| 17 | 930 |
Individual colleges may interpret scores slightly differently, so treat concordance as a guide rather than an exact rule.
Frequently Asked Questions
A 14 ACT places you in about the 11th percentile nationally, meaning you scored higher than about 11% of recent test-takers.
Next Steps
- Search and filter colleges matching your 14 ACT
- Compare nearby scores: 15
- Browse the equivalent 800 SAT college list
Published: August 19, 2026