Testing

Superscoring the SAT and ACT

SMU began superscoring the ACT for admission decisions in Fall 2018 for the 2018-2019 academic year and beyond.
An ACT superscore is a new final composite score that is made up of the best individual section scores across all ACT tests taken. The average of these best individual section scores is calculated to create a brand-new composite ACT score. Writing is not counted.
Students can report the superscore calculated. At the time of enrollment, students must produce each official sitting that would calculate to the score self-reported. For example, if three different ACT testings together create the superscore, SMU will need the results from each of the three testing administrations at the time of enrollment.

SMU does superscore the SAT. This practice has been in place for several years.

If you have questions about superscoring the ACT, please contact your admission counselor. Find and connect with yours at .

Self-Reporting of Standardized Test Scores

SMU began accepting self-reported standardized test scores in Fall 2018.

  • Only ACT and SAT scores will be accepted as self-reported scores. This excludes the TOEFL and IELTS.
  • SMU will accept test scores from high school transcripts, ones provided by the testing agency, or by an applicant’s high school counselor.
  • The official test scores are required at the time of enrollment.
  • At this time, SMU is not accepting self-reported transcripts/grades.
  • Students can enter their test scores on The Common Application and on the MyCoalition Application on the testing page of the application. On the ApplyTexas application, students will not be prompted to enter test scores. Once the application is submitted, students will be able to self-report scores using the form on the personalized application status page.
  • If you have submitted an application and would like to submit new self-reported test scores, please do so via your personalized application status page.
SMU is fully test-optional.

If you have questions about self-reported standardized test scores, please contact your admission counselor. Find and connect with yours at www.smu.edu/counselor