When it comes to college admissions, standardized tests like the SAT and ACT can still play an important role, despite the rise of test-optional policies. Before deciding whether to submit scores, students and families should understand the power of superscoring (submitting your best scores) and how it can enhance an application.
Read on as we break down the SAT and ACT, explain how superscoring works, and share how you can maximize your test scores to strengthen your college applications.
What Are the SAT and ACT?
Both the SAT and ACT are standardized tests designed to assess college readiness. While their effectiveness has been debated, many colleges still consider them when making admissions decisions. Understanding the key differences between these tests can help students decide which one suits them best.
The SAT
• Administered by the CollegeBoard
• Consists of two main sections:
Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW)
Math
• Each section is scored on a 200 – 800 scale, for a total range of 400 – 1600
• Focuses on problem-solving, critical thinking, and reasoning skills
The ACT
• Historically included four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science
• Each section is scored on a 1 – 36 scale, with a Composite Score (the average of the four sections)
• Unlike the SAT, the ACT includes a Science section, which tests data interpretation and analysis
• Starting in Spring 2025, the ACT will introduce a new format where the Science section becomes optional
• After Spring 2025, the Composite Score will be based only on English, Math, and Reading, whether you take the Science section or not (the exact date of this change remains uncertain)
When compared to one another, the SAT is considered to pose more advanced reading and word problems, while the ACT poses more advanced math and science. Both tests are accepted by most colleges, so the choice comes down to personal preference, strengths, and test-taking style.
What Is Superscoring?
Superscoring can boost a student’s application file. It allows students to submit their best section scores from multiple test dates, creating a new superscore. This can be a real advantage!
SAT Superscoring Example
Here’s an example of a student who took the SAT twice and earned the following scores:
| Test Date | EBRW | Math | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| March | 610 | 650 | 1260 |
| June | 590 | 700 | 1290 |
With superscoring, this student’s best EBRW (610) and best Math (700) are combined for a new superscore of 1310, even though the student never actually scored that high on a single test date – pretty cool right!
ACT Superscoring Example
Here is an example of a student who took the ACT on two different dates
| Test Date | English | Math | Reading | Science | Composite |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April | 25 | 28 | 24 | 28 | 26 |
| June | 24 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 26 |
This student’s best English, Math, and Reading scores will be averaged into a new superscore of 27 ((25+28+27)/3). Following the Spring 2025 ACT update, the Science score will no longer be included in the Composite score (though it will still be visible on score reports). Please note that the exact date of this change to the Composite score calculation is not yet confirmed.
Why Does Superscoring Matter?
Superscoring can be a real advantage when applying to college. Here’s why:
• Maximizes Your Performance – Colleges only consider your best scores, so lower scores from past test dates won’t hold you back
• Boosts Competitiveness – A higher superscore can improve your chances for admissions and merit scholarships
• Reduces Stress – Knowing you can retake individual sections and focus on improving specific areas can make the testing process feel a little less overwhelming
Do All Colleges Accept Superscores?
While many colleges do accept superscores for both the SAT and ACT, not every college does and policies can change. Here are a few more things to keep in mind:
• Some schools superscore the SAT but not the ACT
• Others require you to submit all test scores, even if they consider superscores
• Many test-optional schools still superscore if you submit scores
• Some colleges may vary their testing policy based on major (i.e., STEM majors are more likely to require a score)
• Many colleges will change their policy from year to year – be sure you understand the policy in place for your application cycle
Always check the specific testing policies of each college you’re applying to!
How Can You Take Advantage of Superscoring?
Plan Ahead
• Take a diagnostic test for both the SAT and ACT to determine which one best suits your strengths
• Choose the test that feels more comfortable to you
Retake Strategically
• Since superscoring pulls your best section scores, consider retaking the test to improve weaker sections instead of focusing on overall performance
• If taking the ACT in Spring 2025 or later, remember that Science will be optional and won’t count toward superscoring. Be sure to check with your colleges whether they want to see a Science score
H3: Research College Policies
• Make sure the schools on your list accept superscores and check if they require you to submit all test scores
• If they want to see all your scores, how might this affect your retake strategy?
H2: Final Thoughts
If testing is part of your college strategy, superscoring can strengthen your college application by highlighting your best scores. By planning ahead, retaking strategically, and researching college policies, you can make the most of this opportunity and submit your strongest possible scores.
Looking for help with the college search and application process? We help students and families through the entire college planning journey – from search, applications and essays to interview prep, financial aid consultation and final school selection.
Contact us at info@signaturecollegecounseling.com or by phone, 845.551.6946. We work with students through Zoom, over the phone and by email.
