Do state universities generally superscore the ACT?

Do state universities generally superscore the ACT?

I'm curious if state universities normally use ACT superscoring? I heard mixed things and it's confusing trying to plan my strategy, especially for in-state schools.

|1 answer

State universities vary in their ACT superscoring policies, with approximately half of public institutions now accepting superscored ACT results. Superscoring combines your highest section scores from different test dates to create a new composite score. While private universities more commonly superscore the ACT, many state schools have adopted this practice in recent years to align with their SAT superscoring policies.

Your in-state public universities may handle ACT scores differently from one another, even within the same state system. For example, some flagship state universities superscore the ACT, while their sister campuses might only consider the highest composite score from a single test date. Most state universities clearly state their ACT scoring policy on their admissions websites, typically under the standardized testing requirements section.

When planning your testing strategy for state universities, you should take the ACT multiple times if you're aiming for schools that superscore. This approach allows you to focus on improving specific sections while maintaining your higher scores from previous attempts. Even for state schools that don't officially superscore, many will still consider your highest section scores informally during the review process.

Taking the ACT three times is typically optimal for maximizing your superscoring potential at state universities. Beyond three attempts, the score improvements generally become minimal. Remember to check the specific policies for each state university on your list, as this will help you develop the most effective testing strategy for your college applications.

Answer this question

Post an answer to this question to help other readers