A college that superscores the ACT rebuilds a Composite from your highest English, Math, and Reading across test dates. Many selective schools do this; some use only your best single sitting; a few still want every date. The policy is set by the college, not by ACT, so you have to check each school even though ACT will happily generate a superscore for you.
How to find the policy in two minutes
Search the college name plus "standardized testing" and read the SAT/ACT paragraph. You are looking for language like "we consider the highest section scores across dates" (superscore), "highest composite from a single sitting," or "submit all scores." If the page is vague, email admissions. Do not assume two Ivies share a rule.
Patterns you will see
- Superscore: common at schools that want your best evidence. MIT and Caltech, for example, describe reviewing highest section scores and building a superscore on their side. Many other private universities do the same—verify rather than memorize a hundred-name list.
- Best single Composite: the college picks your strongest full sitting and does not mix sections.
- All scores: rarer, but if they ask, send every date.
Which number readers actually use: which ACT score do colleges use.
What to send if they superscore
Send the dates that contain your section highs—often two sittings, not five. You can also send ACT's official superscore. Walkthrough: how to send ACT scores and which dates to send. Enter real dates on the Common App rather than a homemade average; see self-reporting.
How superscoring changes prep
If most of your list superscores, each retake can target one weak section instead of a heroic all-section peak. Worked plan: superscore retake strategy. If a dream school uses only the best sitting, you still need one balanced test day.
The bottom line
ACT will compute a superscore; colleges decide whether to honor it. Check the testing paragraph, send the dates that feed your highs, and aim each retake at the section that still drags the average down.
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.