Score target

What is a good ACT score for University of Northern Iowa?

Federal data, not an estimate: the middle 50% of University of Northern Iowa's enrolled students and what to do with it.

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In short

The middle 50% of enrolled students at University of Northern Iowa scored 19–26 on the ACT Composite, per the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard. A Composite at or above 26 clears the band; inside it, aim for the upper half. The Composite is the average of English, Math and Reading, so the cheapest gain is always the weakest section. University of Northern Iowa admits about 93% of applicants — the score is one input, not a cutoff.

The band, and how to read it

Middle 50% of enrolled students at University of Northern Iowa (College Scorecard, retrieved 2026-09-01).
25th percentile75th percentile
ACT Composite1926

A middle 50% means a quarter of enrolled students scored below 19 and a quarter above 26. It describes who enrolled — it is not an admission rule.

The Composite is an average

It averages English, Math and Reading, rounded at the half. One raw question in your weakest section can move the Composite a full point — which makes the weakest section the cheapest place to gain. Science is optional and does not affect it.

Setting a target

  • 26+: above three quarters of the enrolled class. The score stops being a question.
  • 23–26: the practical target — the upper half of the band.
  • 19–22: in range; the rest of the application carries more weight.
  • Below 19: a quarter of the class is here too, but this is where a retake pays most — see how to improve your ACT score.
Practise toward the University of Northern Iowa band

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Frequently asked questions

What ACT score do I need for University of Northern Iowa?

The middle 50% of enrolled students scored 19–26 on the Composite. The upper half of that band is competitive, and 26+ clears it. There is no published cutoff.

Can I get into University of Northern Iowa with a 18?

A quarter of enrolled students scored below 19. It is possible, and the rest of the application has to carry more weight.

Where do these numbers come from?

The U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard (IPEDS), retrieved 2026-09-01. The school's federal profile is linked below.

Keep reading

Good SAT score for University of Northern IowaWhat is a good ACT score overall?How to improve your ACT score

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