Some colleges use your best single ACT sitting, not a mix of section highs. If a school does not superscore, a weak Math next to a 35 English on the same date still pulls that Composite down. Most campuses now superscore. The exceptions are the ones that change your calendar.
What "no superscore" means
They read one date's English, Math, and Reading average—or they ask you to send one date. They will not build 34 / 31 / 33 across sittings for you. All-scores is a different rule: colleges that require all scores.
How this changes the plan
- Do not use a cold official as a diagnostic if that school is on the list.
- On a retake, protect the strong sections. Protect a strong section.
- Send the single best date, not a mix, unless they also want every sitting. Which dates to send.
The bottom line
Assume superscore unless the college says otherwise. If it will not mix dates, treat each official Saturday as a full Composite, not a section shopping trip.
Start practicing
Start with a free diagnostic, then drill your weak spots with 15-question quizzes and track how you're doing across Reading, English, and Math. Compare plans whenever you're ready to go further.
This article offers general ACT prep guidance. The ACT can change from year to year, including its format, scoring, policies, test dates, and fees, so always confirm the latest details on the official ACT website at act.org before you make decisions. ACT® is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. thirty-six is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by ACT.