SAT Superscore Explained: How to Use It
Most colleges superscore the SAT. Here is exactly what superscoring means, which schools do it, and how to plan retakes around it.
What Superscoring Is
Superscoring means a college combines your highest Math section score and your highest Reading & Writing section score across all test dates. A 1400 (780 R&W, 620 Math) plus a 1380 (640 R&W, 740 Math) superscores to 1520.
Planning Retakes
If your top schools superscore, focus each retake on your weaker section. You don't need a strong day in both — you just need to beat your prior high in at least one.
What to do after reading this
- Record your latest Reading and Writing score, Math score, and total score.
- Identify the section that is furthest from your target.
- Run one targeted drill in that section before taking another full module.
Related SAT guides
- How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges
Every option for sending your SAT scores to colleges, including free score sends, Score Choice, and how superscoring interacts with your submissions.
- How Many Times Should You Take the SAT?
Most students take the SAT two or three times. Here is how to decide on your retake count without wasting a Saturday or triggering admissions red flags.
Mistakes to avoid
- Chasing a total-score goal without knowing which section is holding it down.
- Comparing scores without checking whether they are from timed, realistic practice.
- Taking another practice test before reviewing every missed question.
Use this in practice
Practice on 1600.now
Apply what you just read. Run the numbers in the SAT score calculator, take a full Digital SAT module, or drill targeted skills in the question bank.
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