* GPA: Your high school grade point average is crucial.
* Course rigor: The difficulty of your high school courses (AP, IB, honors) matters significantly.
* Extracurricular activities: Demonstrated leadership, commitment, and involvement in activities are highly valued.
* Essays: Your personal essays showcase your personality, experiences, and goals.
* Letters of recommendation: Strong recommendations from teachers and counselors vouch for your abilities and character.
* Financial need: Many scholarships are need-based, meaning your family's financial situation is a major determining factor.
Some universities might offer merit-based scholarships that reward high academic achievement, and a 36 ACT score would certainly strengthen your application for such awards. However, a "full-ride" scholarship is usually very competitive and often reserved for a small number of students who excel in multiple areas. It's also important to note that "full-ride" can mean different things, sometimes covering tuition but not room and board, or other expenses.
In short: a 36 ACT score is a fantastic accomplishment, but it's not a guaranteed ticket to a full-ride scholarship. You'll still need to apply for scholarships and meet the other admission requirements of the universities you're interested in.