SAT Superscoring Explained

This guide explains the concept of SAT superscoring, how it works, and its advantages. It is designed for students looking to maximize their composite scores by combining the best section results from multiple test dates.

What Is Superscoring?

Superscoring is a policy adopted by many colleges in which they consider your highest section scores from different SAT test dates to create a new, higher composite score. Rather than relying on a single test date, this approach allows admissions officers to see your best performance in each section, potentially improving your chances of admission.

Example:

• Test 1:
  • Math: 680
  • EBRW: 720
• Test 2:
  • Math: 700
  • EBRW: 710

Your superscore would use the highest section scores: Math: 700 (from Test 2) + EBRW: 720 (from Test 1) = 1420.

Colleges That Superscore the SAT

Many prestigious institutions adopt superscoring as part of their admissions process. Notable colleges include:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
• University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
• Brown University
• Duke University
• Vanderbilt University
• Emory University
• Rice University
• Johns Hopkins University
• New York University (NYU)
• University of Michigan
• University of Notre Dame

Note: Policies may vary and change over time. Always verify the current superscoring policy on each college’s official admissions website.

Superscoring vs. Score Choice

• Superscoring:
  Colleges that superscore combine your highest section scores from all the SAT test dates you submit.

• Score Choice:
  This is a College Board feature that allows you to choose which test dates' scores to send to colleges. However, while Score Choice gives you control over which scores are visible, some institutions require the submission of all scores.

It is important to check each college’s policy regarding Score Choice and superscoring to ensure you are submitting your scores appropriately.

Benefits of Superscoring

• Highlights Your Strengths:
  Combines your best section scores to showcase your highest potential.

• Encourages Retesting:
  Offers a strong incentive to retake the SAT, knowing that improvements in individual sections can positively impact your overall score.

• Strategic Preparation:
  Enables you to focus your study efforts on weaker sections without the pressure of having to retake the entire test to improve your score.

Helpful Resources

• What's an SAT Superscore? – College Board BlogWhat's an SAT Superscore? – College Board Blog
• Which Colleges Superscore the SAT? – PrepScholarWhich Colleges Superscore the SAT? – PrepScholar
• SAT Superscore vs. Score Choice – CollegeVineSAT Superscore vs. Score Choice – CollegeVine

Summary

Short Description:
Everything you need to know about SAT superscoring.

Meta Description:
Learn how SAT superscoring works and which colleges use it. Maximize your score by combining your best section results.

This guide is intended to help you understand and leverage the benefits of SAT superscoring, giving you a competitive edge in the college admissions process.