The evaluation of standardized test scores remains a significant factor in the college admissions process at top-tier institutions. Among Harvard applicants, a recurring question is: Does Harvard superscore? That is, does the university combine the highest section scores from multiple test dates to create an optimal composite score?
This article provides a focused analysis of how Harvard University reviews standardized tests, specifically SAT scores and ACT scores, and the implications of Harvard’s policy for prospective students.
Harvard’s Standardized Testing Policy
Harvard University does not superscore standardized tests. While Harvard considers all official scores submitted, it evaluates each SAT or ACT administration in its entirety. The admissions committee does not extract and recombine section scores across multiple test dates to create a new composite score. This diverges from practices at many colleges, such as Dartmouth College, that do superscore.
This non-superscoring stance reflects Harvard’s belief that a single test date offers a more complete and authentic representation of an applicant’s academic performance. A student’s ACT or SAT score is weighed as part of a holistic review, but the highest test scores across different administrations are not merged to form a superscore at Harvard.
This policy aligns with the broader Harvard education philosophy: assessing students in context, not just by numbers. It supports their commitment to building a diverse student body by recognizing that test scores are just one part of a multifaceted college application.
Strategic Implications for Test Preparation and Score Submission
Given that Harvard does not superscore, applicants must treat each test administration as a standalone opportunity. Preparation across all sections—from the math section to reading comprehension—should be thorough before each testing date. Unlike colleges that accept the highest composite score across test dates, Harvard will view each score in full, reinforcing the importance of being prepared on a single test date.
Students should be strategic with their test scheduling. Taking the SAT or ACT earlier in junior or senior year may allow time to improve if initial scores fall short of personal targets or Harvard ACT requirements. While Harvard does not recombine sectional scores, it does recognize upward trends and perseverance across multiple tests.
Harvard allows students to self-report their standardized test scores in the application, though they may later need to submit results via official scores from the College Board or ACT. While applicants can technically choose which scores to send, Harvard encourages submitting all scores for context. Students using a fee waiver or applying under restrictive early action should still aim to present their best effort on each test.
Understanding Harvard’s Holistic Admissions Process
The decision not to superscore should be viewed through the lens of Harvard’s broader admissions process. The university has long recognized that test scores, while informative, are not the sole determinant of admissions decisions. In fact, while Harvard has returned to a test-required policy, in previous admissions cycles, they had adopted test-optional policies, acknowledging that standardized testing may not be accessible to all students due to family responsibilities, employment experience, or school limitations.
Harvard evaluates academic rigor through high school grades, course selection, and intellectual curiosity. Beyond academics, extracurricular activities, leadership, and personal background are factored into how an applicant might contribute significantly to the incoming class. Harvard alumni, faculty, and the admissions committee seek applicants who will thrive both intellectually and socially in a diverse student body.
Comparing Harvard to Peer Institutions
In contrast to Harvard, many colleges—including Yale, Columbia, and Princeton—superscore SAT scores or ACT scores, combining the highest scores across multiple tests. This difference in policy means that students applying to multiple elite schools must research the testing requirements of each institution.
For example, the College Board offers free score reports, but how and when you send scores may depend on each school’s preferences. Knowing that Harvard does not superscore should influence when students test and how they prepare. Students targeting multiple schools should consider creating a personalized testing and submission plan tailored to each college’s evaluation method.
Final Thoughts for Harvard Applicants
So, does Harvard superscore? No. Harvard requires applicants to submit complete test scores from each test date and does not recalculate a new composite score from the highest scores across test dates. This reinforces Harvard’s commitment to a holistic, context-rich review process.
However, students hoping to get into Harvard should remember that standardized tests are just one component. Harvard students are admitted based on a constellation of achievements—academic excellence, meaningful extracurricular involvement, and the potential to contribute significantly to campus life.
While a perfect score or the highest score may be impressive, it won’t secure admission alone. Focus on presenting a well-rounded application that reflects not just your test scores but who you are and what you’ll bring to Harvard.
Whether you’re sending your ACT score or SAT score, every part of your Harvard application should reflect the same dedication and intentionality that defines the Harvard community.
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