Do colleges consider my highest ACT score

Okay, so I’m really stressed about college applications. I took the ACT twice, and got a 30 the first time and a 32 the second time. Is it generally accepted that colleges will just look at the 32? I’ve heard some places "superscore" but I’m not entirely sure what that means.

My breakdown was like this:

• Test 1 (Score: 30): English: 32, Math: 28, Reading: 31, Science: 29
• Test 2 (Score: 32): English: 33, Math: 31, Reading: 33, Science: 31

So basically, I improved in Math, Reading, and Science. Does superscoring mean they’d take my highest score in each section, regardless of the test date? And if they do superscore, is that something I have to actively do (like submit both scores and request it) or do colleges usually just figure it out themselves?

I’m mainly looking at schools like the University of Michigan, Northwestern, and maybe some smaller liberal arts colleges. Does it depend on the specific college whether they superscore or not? How can I find out what each school’s policy is? Should I just call the admissions offices? I’m just really trying to put my best foot forward and want to make sure I’m not missing anything.

Answer

Yes, most colleges consider your highest ACT score. This practice is often referred to as "superscoring." Here’s a breakdown of how it works and related considerations:

Superscoring Explained

Superscoring involves colleges taking the highest score you achieved on each individual section of the ACT (English, Math, Reading, Science) across multiple test dates to create a new, composite "superscore." This superscore may be higher than any single composite score you received on a single test date.

Example:

• Test Date 1: English: 30, Math: 25, Reading: 28, Science: 27, Composite: 28
• Test Date 2: English: 28, Math: 27, Reading: 30, Science: 28, Composite: 28

If a college superscores the ACT, they would use your highest scores from each section: English (30 from Test Date 1), Math (27 from Test Date 2), Reading (30 from Test Date 2), Science (28 from Test Date 2). This would result in a superscore that is 29 (the average of 30, 27, 30, and 28)

College Policies Vary

While many colleges superscore, policies can differ. Here’s what to consider:

• Explicit Superscoring: Some colleges explicitly state they superscore the ACT on their admissions website. They will combine your best section scores from different test dates.
• Consideration of Multiple Scores: Some colleges may not explicitly state they superscore, but they encourage you to submit all your ACT scores. In these cases, they may unofficially superscore or simply consider your best overall performance.
• "Highest Single Sitting": A few colleges only consider the highest composite score from a single test date. They do not superscore. These colleges are becoming less common.
• "All Scores Required": Some colleges require you to submit all your ACT scores and will consider your performance across all tests. They may look for improvement or consistency. While they might see your highest overall score, they will also see all your other attempts.
• Test-Optional Policies: Many colleges have adopted test-optional policies, especially since 2020. This means you are not required to submit ACT scores at all. If you choose to submit your scores, the college will evaluate them according to their stated policy.

How to Find a College’s ACT Policy

1. College Website: The best place to find a college’s ACT policy is on their admissions website. Look for a section on standardized tests, application requirements, or frequently asked questions. Search for terms like "ACT," "SAT," "test-optional," or "standardized testing."
2. Admissions Office: If you cannot find the information online, contact the admissions office directly. You can call or email them to ask about their ACT policy.
3. College Search Tools: Some college search websites and resources (like College Board or Peterson’s) provide information about college testing policies. However, always verify this information on the college’s official website.

What to Submit

• When Superscoring is Allowed: If a college superscores, submit all your ACT scores so they can create the highest possible superscore.
• When Superscoring is Not Explicitly Stated: Even if a college doesn’t explicitly superscore, it’s generally a good idea to submit all your scores. They might still consider your best performance.
• When All Scores are Required: If a college requires all scores, you must submit all your ACT scores.
• When Test-Optional: Carefully consider whether your scores will strengthen your application. If your scores are at or above the college’s average ACT range, submitting them is generally beneficial. If your scores are below average, you may want to apply test-optional.

ACT Score Reporting

• Official Score Reports: Colleges typically require official score reports sent directly from the ACT.
• Self-Reporting: Some colleges allow you to self-report your scores on the application. However, if you are admitted, you will usually need to submit official score reports to verify your self-reported scores.

Important Considerations

• Focus on Improvement: Even if a college superscores, showing improvement over multiple test attempts can be a positive factor.
• Holistic Review: Remember that colleges consider many factors besides test scores, including your GPA, coursework, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.
• Test Preparation: Thoroughly prepare for the ACT. Use practice tests and other resources to improve your performance.
• Weigh the Costs: Taking the ACT multiple times can be expensive. Consider the costs and potential benefits before registering for additional tests.