What Is ACT Superscoring?
ACT superscoring is the process of combining a student’s highest section scores across multiple ACT test dates to create a new, higher “superscore.”
Instead of looking at the scores from a single test sitting, colleges that accept ACT superscores will calculate your best composite score by taking:
- Your highest English score
- Your highest Math score
- Your highest Reading score
- Your highest Science score
Then, they average those four scores to generate a superscore.
Example of ACT Superscoring:
| Test Date | English | Math | Reading | Science | Composite |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April | 30 | 28 | 26 | 27 | 28 |
| June | 32 | 26 | 29 | 25 | 28 |
| Superscore | 32 | 28 | 29 | 27 | 29 |
Even though your highest composite on a single test was 28, your ACT superscore becomes 29.
Why ACT Superscoring Matters
Superscoring can significantly benefit students applying to competitive colleges. Here’s why:
- Higher scores mean better chances: A higher superscore could push you into a more competitive bracket for admissions or scholarships.
- Reduces pressure: You don’t need to get everything right in one sitting. You can improve section by section across different dates.
- Strategic test-taking: Students can focus on specific sections in retakes instead of stressing about the entire test.
Does ACT Itself Support Superscoring?
Yes. As of 2020, ACT officially supports superscoring. When you send your scores through ACT.org, you can choose to send:
- Individual test date scores
- A superscore compiled from your best individual section scores
This official ACT superscore is now available to colleges who accept it.
Which Colleges Accept ACT Superscores?
Many top colleges and universities accept ACT superscores as part of their application review. Here’s a snapshot of schools that explicitly state they accept ACT superscoring:
| College / University | Accepts ACT Superscore? |
|---|---|
| University of Southern California (USC) | ✅ Yes |
| New York University (NYU) | ✅ Yes |
| University of Chicago | ✅ Yes |
| Georgia Tech | ✅ Yes |
| Boston University | ✅ Yes |
| Northeastern University | ✅ Yes |
| Yale University | ❌ No (as of last update) |
| Harvard University | ✅ Yes (policy varies) |
✅ Tip: Always double-check with each college’s admissions site. Some colleges review both superscores and single-test scores.
ACT Superscoring vs Score Choice: What’s the Difference?
These terms are often confused, but they mean different things:
| Term | What It Means |
|---|---|
| ACT Superscoring | Colleges combine your highest section scores across test dates |
| Score Choice | You choose which full ACT test date(s) to send to colleges |
Can You Use Both?
Yes! Some students use Score Choice to only send their highest single-date scores or just the ones contributing to their superscore. Not all colleges allow Score Choice, so check their policies carefully.
Is ACT Superscoring Right for You?
If you’re planning to take the ACT more than once, superscoring gives you a clear advantage. Here’s how to decide if it fits your strategy:
- You’re strong in some sections but need to improve others
- You’re applying to schools that accept superscores
- You have the time and budget to take the ACT multiple times
Final Thoughts: Should You Plan Around ACT Superscoring?
Absolutely — if your target schools accept ACT superscoring, it’s a smart move. It allows you to focus on improving weak areas without starting from scratch, and it can give your college application a much-needed edge.
Before scheduling a retake, ask yourself:
- Can I improve at least one section with focused study?
- Will my target schools benefit from a higher superscore?
- Have I reviewed each section’s structure and strategies?
With strategic planning and practice, ACT superscoring can boost your college admissions profile — sometimes by more than just one point.
Final Thoughts: Should You Plan Around ACT Superscoring?
Absolutely — if your target schools accept ACT superscoring, it’s a smart strategy. It allows you to focus on improving specific sections without retaking the entire exam from scratch. With focused prep, superscoring can help boost your admissions profile and open doors to more competitive colleges and scholarships.
At Ascend Now, we specialize in personalized ACT tutoring that targets your weak areas and builds on your strengths—so each retake moves you closer to your ideal superscore. Whether you’re taking the ACT for the first time or planning a retake, our expert mentors are here to help you build confidence, improve performance, and achieve your goals.
