Superscoring is one of the most strategically important testing policies to understand — it changes how you should approach test retakes and which scores to send.
How SAT Superscoring Works
The SAT has two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math, each scored 200–800. Your total SAT score is the sum of these two sections (400–1600). When a college superscores the SAT, they take your highest EBRW score from any test date and your highest Math score from any test date, then add them to create a superscore — even if those high scores came from different test administrations. This superscore is typically higher than any single test's composite.
How ACT Superscoring Works
The ACT has four sections: English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science (each 1–36). Your ACT composite is the average of these four sections. ACT superscoring takes your highest score in each of the four sections across multiple test dates and averages them into a new composite. The ACT began offering official superscores in 2020, but not all colleges accept them — verify each school's ACT superscore policy.
Strategic Implications
Superscoring transforms your test retake strategy. If your first SAT has a strong Math score (780) but a weaker EBRW score (650), your second attempt should focus entirely on improving EBRW — because your Math score is already locked in. You can optimize each section independently across multiple test dates rather than trying to improve everything at once.
Which Schools Superscore
The vast majority of selective colleges superscore the SAT. ACT superscoring is less universal — many schools accept it, but some do not. Check the College Board's Score Choice policy and each school's testing policy page for definitive information. When sending scores, always use the Score Choice option to send only your strongest test dates.