Superscore
A composite SAT or ACT score combining a student's best section scores across multiple test dates.
Superscoring is the practice of combining a student's best section scores from multiple test dates into a single composite. For example, if a student earns Math 700 + EBRW 650 on one SAT and Math 680 + EBRW 720 on a later SAT, the superscored composite is 700 + 720 = 1420 — higher than either individual sitting.
The College Board now automatically superscores SAT scores at colleges that accept superscoring. ACT also offers automatic superscoring as of 2020. Most selective U.S. colleges accept superscored composites, though policies vary; the school's admissions website is the authoritative source.
For parents, superscoring means a strong second test sitting can meaningfully improve a child's reported scores even if the second composite is similar to the first. Two or three sittings is often a worthwhile investment if the school's policy supports superscoring.
Related terms
View all terms- Score ChoiceThe option to send only specific SAT score reports to colleges, not the full testing history. Some schools require all sittings.
- Test-OptionalAn admissions policy where students may choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. The school evaluates submitted scores when present.
- Test-BlindAn admissions policy where SAT and ACT scores are not considered at all, even if submitted. The most common case is the University of California system.