Self-reporting means you type your ACT scores into the Common App (or a college's own form). It is not an official ACT score report, and many schools only require the official file if you enroll. Use it to meet application deadlines without waiting on every extra report—then confirm which colleges still want ACT to send scores separately.
Where it lives on the Common App
Open the Common App tab, then Testing. Say yes to reporting ACT scores. Enter each test date you want the college to see, plus the section scores from that sitting. You can usually list more than one date. Do not invent a homemade superscore as a single sitting—enter real dates and let the college combine sections if it superscores.
If a school uses Coalition or its own portal, the same idea applies: find the testing section and enter scores from your MyACT report exactly as they appear.
What to type, and what not to
- Do: copy Composite and section scores from the official MyACT report. Include Science and Writing only if you took them and the form asks.
- Do: list future test dates if the application asks whether you plan to test again.
- Don't: round, omit a required sitting, or enter practice-test scores.
How to read the official report is in how to read an ACT score report. Which dates belong on the application depends on score choice and whether the college superscores.
When self-reporting is enough
Self-reporting is usually enough to complete the file when a college says it will review self-reported scores and only needs official ones from enrolled students. That saves money and time in November and January. Keep a screenshot or PDF of your MyACT scores in case a school asks you to upload unofficial evidence.
When you still need an official send
Order an official report if the college requires it for admission review, scholarships, NCAA or honors paperwork, or as a condition of enrollment. Build in processing time from how long scores take. Test-optional schools still have a submit-or-skip decision—see should you submit ACT scores at test-optional schools.
The bottom line
Type real scores from real dates into Testing. Treat official ACT reports as a second step that some schools delay until you enroll and others still want now. Matching those two steps to each college is the whole job.
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.