So I’m applying to the BME major. There’s no need to tell me that I don’t have a chance getting into it because I’m already aware of that. However, it’s worth a shot since it’s the #1 school for the program.
Anyway, my ACT composite is a 34 (35E, 34M, 34R) however the science I got a 32. But on my first ACT testing date (composite 32) I scored a 34 in the science section, but the rest of the sections are significantly worse.
Is it worth sending both scores? Or will sending the lower part hurt my chances?
I just want to show my strength in the science section, since that’s what my major is dependent on. But I do have a 790 bio subject test and all A+ in AP sciences in high school. My essays also show a clear direction in the sciences.
All I need to know is if it’s worth it to send the first score report to get that 34 Science in there or if the lower scores will hurt me.
Thank you! 
What are your AP test scores?
@NixonDenier for sciences: 5 on AP Bio, 4 on physics 1 (I received a “4.4” in both classes, my school’s highest possible grade) currently taking AP Chem, AP comp sci, and AP Calc BC
Your high grades in your AP science classes and strong performances on standardized tests suggest you have a firm grasp of the material and doesn’t raise any red flags that you would struggle at Hopkins as a BME.
The best indicator at this point is to look at ED stats posted by those accepted (assuming they are telling the truth).
Hopkins, as you know, does superscore, which, from an idealogical standpoint, indicates that Hopkins is not as interested in your performance on a single test and understands that students improve when they retake an exam, but that statistically it is difficult to maintain high scores in each section upon retaking the exam. Assuming you haven’t retaken this exam 4,5,6 times with a clear focus on one section each time, then there is no reason to think you are abusing this system, but are using this scoring process for the very reason it was conceived.
In my opinion, taking the exam only twice and doing much better overall shows you took the time to study and improved (which is a very good thing - you set your mind to something and delivered). The fact that one, of many sections, dipped a little is a reality many students encounter and is not surprising at all. This is exactly why Hopkins superscores because it acknowledges that this happens a lot and doesn’t want any one test performance to determine who you are as an applicant. I would submit both exams so you can use the superscore to your advantage (as most other applicants will be doing). True, they can see that you performed worse the first time you took the exam, but that is part of the basic tenets of testing.
This is of course my opinion and filled with speculation. Just remember though that JHU adopted the policy of superscoring because it is aligned with their philosophy (whatever that may be). In my mind this means JHU understands these variations between exams are a reality, and a dip in one section is the most conservative outcome that should be expected from this superscoring policy. Lastly, a composite 32 the first time around is not, in the grand scheme of things, a bad score.
Take advantage of the superscore opportunity that most other applicants will be utilizing!
@NixonDenier thank you so much for responding! I definitely will consider sending both now.