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Definitions & Explanations

What is an SAT Superscore? (How Colleges Calculate It)

Combine your best section scores to reach your highest composite.

Direct Answer

An SAT superscore is the calculation of your highest possible composite score by combining your single highest Math section score and your single highest Reading & Writing section score across all test dates you have taken. Over 80% of US colleges superscore the SAT automatically.

Because colleges superscore, students who take the test 2 or 3 times can focus heavily on preparing for Math on one test date and Reading & Writing on a second test date, combining both scores into a single top-tier composite.

Key Takeaways & Pro Tips

Example: If you score 680 RW / 750 Math on Test 1 (1430) and 740 RW / 710 Math on Test 2 (1450), your superscore is 740 RW + 750 Math = 1490.
Check if your target university uses Score Choice or requests all test sittings.

Frequently asked questions

Does College Board calculate the superscore for you?

When you send your official score report, College Board allows you to send scores from your best test dates, and universities calculate the superscore automatically in their admissions system.

Does an SAT superscore look worse than a single-sitting score to admissions officers?

No. Admissions officers only see your highest superscored section numbers in their evaluation software.

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