I've taken the ACT twice and plan on a third attempt. How do colleges, like University of Chicago or Georgetown, typically view multiple scores? How should I report them to put my best foot forward?
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When comparing multiple ACT scores, most colleges will consider your highest composite score or use superscoring, which combines your best section scores from different test dates. Superscoring allows you to showcase your peak performance in each section, potentially resulting in a higher overall score than any single test attempt.
Most selective universities, including the University of Chicago and Georgetown, accept multiple ACT score submissions and will evaluate them favorably. The University of Chicago specifically practices superscoring for the ACT, while Georgetown considers all submitted scores but typically focuses on your highest scores. This approach recognizes that students may perform better on different sections during different test dates.
To present your scores most effectively, submit all your ACT attempts through the testing agency. This transparency is valued by admissions officers, and since many schools automatically consider your best scores, there's no disadvantage to sending all results. Your score report will show each attempt's section scores (English, Math, Reading, and Science) alongside the composite score, making it easy for admissions officers to identify your strongest performance in each area.
Taking the ACT three times is common and generally viewed positively by admissions officers, as it demonstrates dedication to academic improvement. Most students see their highest scores by the third attempt, and colleges appreciate seeing this upward trajectory in your testing history. Remember that while test scores are important, they're just one component of your college application, considered alongside your GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations.
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