Superscoring allows you to combine your best section scores from multiple ACT attempts to create a new, higher composite score. This can directly impact admissions decisions and scholarships. With tools like the Orbit AI Mentor Marketplace, you can build a retake strategy that aligns with superscoring policies.

How Does ACT Superscoring Work?

Colleges that superscore take your highest score from each ACT section—English, Math, Reading, and Science—across all your test dates. They then calculate a new composite score based on these top section scores. This means you can focus on improving specific sections during retakes. You can learn more from the official ACT.org superscoring page.

Which Colleges Superscore the ACT?

A growing number of colleges, including many top private institutions and public universities, now superscore the ACT. Policies vary by school, so it is important to check the admissions website for each college on your list. The Orbit AI Right Fit Matcher helps you quickly identify which of your target schools superscore.

How Superscoring Affects Your Testing Timeline

Knowing which schools superscore changes how you should plan your ACT test dates. Rather than aiming for one perfect composite score, you can target individual sections across multiple tests. To take full advantage:

Plan your first ACT for the spring of your junior year.
Allow time for retakes in the summer and early fall.
Use focused prep between test dates to target specific sections.

ACT Superscoring and Scholarships

Many colleges also accept superscores when awarding merit scholarships. Since many scholarship deadlines fall earlier than Regular Decision dates, testing early leaves time for strategic retakes that can help you meet the ACT score ranges required for significant merit aid.

ACT Superscore FAQ

How is an ACT superscore calculated?

Colleges take your single highest section scores from all your different ACT test dates and average them to create a new, higher composite score.

Do all colleges superscore the ACT?

No, but a growing number of colleges do. It is important to check the policy for each specific school on your list, as it can vary widely.

Should I retake the ACT to boost my superscore?

Yes. If you have one or two sections that are weaker than the others, a focused retake is an excellent strategy to raise your overall superscore.

How many retakes is too many?

Most students benefit from taking the ACT two or three times. Taking it more than that can lead to burnout with diminishing returns. Quality prep and strategic timing are more important.

Last updated: June 2024.