When it comes to the SAT, it’s not just about the score you earn—it’s about the scores you send. Navigating college admissions means understanding key submission policies like Superscoring and Score Choice, which can significantly impact how admissions committees view your performance. Superscoring lets you showcase your top section scores, while Score Choice puts you in control of selecting your best overall test results.
But which approach will give you the edge? In this guide, we’ll break down these policies, explore their pros and cons, and help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re aiming for Ivy League schools, competitive liberal arts colleges, or state universities, understanding how to present your SAT scores strategically could be the key to standing out and boosting your chances of admission. Let’s dive in!
What Is Superscoring?
Superscoring lets students combine their highest section scores from all SAT test dates to create a stronger overall score. For instance, if 700 is your best Math score and 710 is your highest Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) score across different test attempts, your superscore would be 1410.
Many colleges use superscoring because it highlights a student’s best performance in each section, offering a more comprehensive view of their academic potential. However, policies can differ depending on the institution. For instance, Princeton University allows students to take advantage of the SAT’s Score Choice option and considers only the highest composite ACT score, while encouraging applicants to submit all test results for a holistic review.
What Is Score Choice?
Score Choice lets you choose which full test-day scores to send to colleges. Unlike Superscoring, this policy focuses on sending your best overall SAT performance from a single date. This can be useful if you had one or more test days where your scores were lower than usual.
With Score Choice, you have control over what colleges see, but you miss out on the potential advantage of combining your best section scores.
Colleges That Accept Superscoring or Score Choice
Most colleges have clearly defined policies regarding Superscoring and Score Choice. While some schools encourage students to submit all scores for a more holistic evaluation, others allow applicants to choose the test dates that best showcase their abilities. Here are some examples:
Colleges That Superscore SATs:
MIT: Emphasizes that Superscoring helps them evaluate your academic strengths by focusing on your best section scores.
University of Chicago: Allows Superscoring for applicants, giving them the opportunity to combine their top scores from different test dates.
Colleges That Allow Score Choice:
Yale University: While Score Choice is allowed, Yale recommends sending all scores because they will consider your best ones—a process that essentially works like Superscoring.
Harvard University: Harvard gives applicants the flexibility to choose which SAT test dates to submit, but they also state that seeing multiple test scores provides insight into a student’s overall testing performance.
Since score policies can vary widely, always check individual college guidelines to maximize your testing strategy and align your score submissions with your admissions goals.
Superscoring vs. Score Choice: Pros and Cons
Both Superscoring and Score Choice offer unique advantages, but they also come with potential drawbacks. Here’s a closer look:
Superscoring
Pros:
Maximizes Your Strengths: By combining your highest section scores, Superscoring helps present your best overall performance.
Focuses on Improvement: Encourages students to retake the SAT and work on specific sections to boost their scores.
Holistic View: Some colleges use Superscoring to get a better picture of your academic potential over time.
Cons:
All Scores May Be Required: Some colleges that superscore still require you to submit all test-day results, which means they may see lower scores.
Not Universally Accepted: Not every college superscores, so this strategy may not apply to all your applications.
Score Choice
Pros:
Control Over Submission: You can choose which test-day scores to send, avoiding lower performances from appearing in your application.
Simplifies the Process: If you have one strong overall score from a single test date, Score Choice allows you to submit that score without worrying about section-specific results.
Cons:
Missed Opportunities for Higher Scores: Unlike Superscoring, Score Choice doesn’t allow you to combine your best section scores from multiple test dates.
Limited Use at Some Colleges: Some schools recommend or require submitting all scores, which may reduce the effectiveness of this strategy.
How to Decide Which Policy to Follow
Since policies vary by college, it’s essential to check the admissions websites of the schools you’re applying to. Some colleges explicitly mention Superscoring, while others allow Score Choice but may still consider your best scores. Here are some tips to help you decide:
1. Take Multiple SATs
To maximize your chances of achieving higher section scores, plan to take the SAT more than once. This increases the likelihood of benefiting from Superscoring.
2. Check Each College’s Score Policy
Not all colleges treat SAT scores the same way. Make sure you understand whether your target schools superscore or follow Score Choice guidelines.
3. Use a Balanced Testing Strategy
If you struggle with one section (like Math or EBRW), focus on improving that score in subsequent SAT attempts. This way, you can benefit from Superscoring later.
Debunking Common Misconceptions
When it comes to SAT score submissions, students often encounter misinformation. Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions:
“Superscoring means you don’t have to send all your scores.”
Not necessarily. Some colleges require you to submit all test-day scores even if they use Superscoring for evaluation.
“Colleges automatically superscore all SAT submissions.”
This is not guaranteed. You must confirm whether your selected colleges offer Superscoring and follow their submission guidelines accordingly.
Conclusion
Your SAT scores are an important part of your college application, and knowing how to present them can make a real difference. Whether you choose to leverage Superscoring, opt for Score Choice, or strike a balance between the two, your strategy should align with your strengths and your target colleges’ preferences. By carefully planning your test dates, improving on weaker areas, and understanding each school’s score policies, you can maximize your chances of standing out in a competitive admissions landscape.
Ultimately, your SAT scores reflect just one part of your academic journey. Colleges are looking for well-rounded candidates with potential, and how you present your scores can enhance your story. Stay strategic, stay informed, and approach the SAT with confidence—because your best performance could be the key to unlocking your future opportunities.