The vast majority of colleges allow you to choose which ACT test scores to send (Score Choice). Unlike some SAT policies, very few schools require you to submit all ACT scores from every test date.
ACT Score Choice lets you select which test dates to send to colleges. When you order score reports, you choose specific test dates rather than sending your entire testing history. Each test date you select costs $16 per college as of 2025.
Nearly all colleges accept ACT Score Choice, including:
Some schools that allow Score Choice also superscore, taking your highest section scores across multiple test dates:
If a school superscores, send all your ACT scores so they can build the highest composite.
Very few schools require all ACT scores:
May Require All ACT Scores:
Always verify with each school's testing office.
When You Register: Select up to four colleges to receive scores for free.
After Test Day: Order additional score reports ($16 per school per test date).
Choose Test Dates: Select which ACT test dates to send to each school.
Scores Sent: Only chosen test dates are sent. Colleges don't see other attempts.
ACT: Nearly universal Score Choice allowed
SAT: Some schools (Stanford, Yale, Georgetown) require all SAT scores
If worried about having to send all scores, the ACT might be preferable to the SAT for those specific schools.
Send multiple scores if:
Send single best score if:
Test Multiple Times: Since you can choose which scores to send, taking the ACT 2-3 times often improves results without risk.
Focus on Improvement: Each test is independent. Work on weaknesses between attempts with test preparation.
Send Best Composite: For non-superscoring schools, send only your highest composite score.
Send All for Superscoring: For schools that superscore, send all tests so they can build your best possible score.
Visit Admissions Website: Look for "Testing Requirements" or "Standardized Testing Policy" pages.
Call Admissions Office: When in doubt, call directly to ask about ACT score reporting requirements.
Check College Board/ACT Databases: Both testing agencies maintain databases of school policies.
Standard Reporting (Test Date): Send one full test (all four sections plus writing if taken) from a single date.
Superscoring: Some schools create super composite from your best section scores across dates.
Section Retesting: ACT offers section retesting, letting you retake individual sections. Check if schools accept these scores.
Four Free Reports: ACT includes four free score reports when you register. Use these strategically.
Additional Reports: $16 per school per test date adds up quickly.
Send Strategically: Only send scores to schools where you're seriously applying.
Wait for Results: See your scores before ordering additional reports to avoid sending low scores.
Some merit scholarships require:
Check scholarship requirements separately from admissions requirements.
When schools superscore ACT:
Example:
You can apply first and send ACT scores later, but verify schools receive scores before their deadlines. December ACT scores usually arrive too late for January 1 deadlines.
Whether taking the ACT once or multiple times, effective test preparation makes all the difference. At LifeWorks, we help students develop the reasoning and time management skills that lead to strong ACT scores. We also provide academic support to keep grades strong throughout the testing process.
Get in touch to learn how we can help you achieve your testing goals.
Can I hide low ACT scores from colleges?
At schools that allow Score Choice, yes. Only send your best scores. Schools won't know about other attempts unless you send them or they require all scores.
Do colleges see how many times I took the ACT?
Only if you send scores from multiple dates or if the school requires all scores. With Score Choice, colleges only see test dates you choose to send.
Should I send my ACT even if it's test-optional?
Only if your score strengthens your application. Compare your score to the school's middle 50% range. If you're within or above it, send the score.
What if I took the ACT four times?
Send only your best score(s). Most students take the ACT 2-3 times, but taking it 4+ times and sending only the best is acceptable with Score Choice.
Can I send different ACT scores to different schools?
Yes. You choose which test dates to send to each school individually. You might send Test 1 to School A and Test 2 to School B if different scores benefit different applications.
Will using Score Choice hurt my chances?
No. Schools that allow Score Choice expect students to send only their best scores. Using Score Choice is normal and won't negatively affect your application.
