Superscoring is one option students can consider when submitting SAT scores to college. It is among the options that most colleges use in combining the best section scores from several SAT test dates. Many colleges will take the highest scores from different test dates and average them together for better admittance consideration. In this article, we break down what the SAT superscore is, how it is calculated, and the strategies that should be followed by a student to maximize the benefit of the process.

What Is SAT Superscore?

The SAT superscore is a means by which many colleges review a student's highest section scores from multiple attempts at the SAT. Rather than reviewing the composite score on one test day, superscore-accepting colleges will consider the best scores attained by a student in each of the two sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, on potentially different test dates.

For example, let's suppose you have taken the SAT multiple times. In one test, you scored better in Math; in another, better in Reading and Writing. With the superscore, these separate best section scores would be combined to give you a stronger overall result.

How to Calculate Superscore SAT?

Calculating your super SAT score requires taking the best scores from each section on different test dates and adding them all up for a new total. Here are the specific steps involved in calculating your SAT superscore, as indicated below.To calculate your SAT superscore, it is pretty simple. 

1. Take multiple SATs: You must take the SAT multiple times to achieve a superscore.
2. Find your highest section scores: Once you've taken the SAT multiple times, look at the highest math score you made and the highest Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score, and don't concern yourself with where each came from - no matter which test date your best scores came from.
3. Add the highest section scores: Take your superscore by adding your highest Math score and the highest Reading and Writing score.

How to Calculate Superscore SAT Example:

Let's say you scored twice on the SAT. That would be this one over here:

Your super SAT score combines the best section scores: 700 in Math on Test 2 and 700 in Reading & Writing on Test 1, for a total score of 1400.

Importance of SAT Superscoring to Colleges

SAT superscoring, it turns out, matters a lot in the college admissions process.

Most colleges and universities accept super SAT scores because they think this better reflects a student's academic ability. Superscoring allows a student to present his or her best performances in each of the components of the SAT, rather than being constrained by one test day in which he or she probably did not play his or her best.

Superscoring serves both students and colleges:

1. It offers the chance to enhance the overall result without requiring perfect scores on any section of an exam at a single testing date for students.
2. For the colleges, it gives them the chance to evaluate the student based on the best possible performance, providing a more accurate picture of the applicant's abilities.
3. However, not all colleges superscore the SAT. You must examine the admission policies of each school you're applying to in order to know whether they do or don't superscore.

Strategies to Maximize Your SAT Superscore

Optimizing your SAT superscore means improving weaker SAT sections on subsequent test attempts while maintaining or maximizing stronger areas. Here are some strategies to help maximize your superscore:

1. Take the SAT Multiple Times

The more times you take the SAT, the more opportunities you will have to improve individual section scores. And if you really feel comfortable after one test, then it may be useful for you to retake the SAT in order to boost up your scores. Many students improve their performance on every attempt because they become more familiar with the test format and can actually refine test-taking strategies.

2. Concentrate on one section at a time

If you ace one area (for instance, Reading and Writing), now put a little more effort into that weaker one (for example, Math) in the next test. Focusing your studying on one section at a time allows you to try to improve that score significantly without feeling guilty about the others.

3. Practice under timed conditions

The SAT is a timed test and requires practice under similar conditions to be successful. Use actual, official SAT practice tests for the experience. Timed practice gets you accustomed to pacing and reduces the chances of you running out of time on the real test.

4. Review Mistakes Thoroughly

After you take each SAT practice test or the actual test, go over any questions you got wrong carefully. It is just as important to learn why you missed questions that you actually missed. Learn from those mistakes and change your study plan.

5. Utilize Targeted Study Materials

Spend money on quality study material, which focuses on your weaker areas of the SAT. You may need to acquire various SAT prep books, online tutorials, or practice questions that target either Math or Reading and Writing depending on what you need most improvement in.

6. Take a prep course

If you can't raise your scores on your own, you don't have to; take advantage of a tutor or an SAT prep course. A tutor or prep course can offer individualized strategies, targeted lessons, and professional insights into test-taking techniques that could help their scores increase. A tutor will be able to focus you on your problem areas and give the guidance you'll need to improve.

Do You Always Have to Aim for a Superscore?

Keep in mind that not all colleges accept SAT superscores, and accordingly you should determine which schools you're applying to before you decide your strategy. Some schools only accept composite scores from one test date, while others are open to super SAT scores, so make sure your testing plan fits with the policies of your target schools. In superscore-accepting institutions, attempt to achieve a best score in each section, if need be, by retaking the test.

Conclusion

The SAT superscore provides a student with the chance to express their absolutely best score out of many times when they sit for the test. The perfect score requires a constant effort to bring up individual scores of the sections and execute study strategies. To get a good SAT superscore, a student needs to take the SAT at least twice and concentrate on one section at a time, practice under timed conditions, and use only good study materials. When a student uses proper strategy and preparation, he or she can use superscoring to get the colleges of his choice.