Do colleges look at ACT scores as a composite or individually?

I gave the June 4, 2016 ACT and it was my first attempt. I got a score of 31 composite.
The breakdown were as follows-
Maths- 35
English-33
Reading-32
Science-24
My composite went down just because of my science section. I personally feel that it is too late to take another try at the test even though I am certain about bringing up my score at least one or two points. It is already September and I want to ED.
What I was really curious about was whether colleges will look at these scores individually and give some credit to my 35 in math or not. I am looking to apply to Stern NYU, UCLA, CMU and USC. The safe colleges would include BostonU, PennState and Indiana Bloomington. Thank you so much in advance. Also, any tips on the new science section would be appreciated. :slight_smile:

Yes schools will look at the individual scores in some situations. One example is engineering schools who place a premium on math scores.

It certainly helps to have a good math score and 31 is a respectable composite. GL.

The schools do get individual scores. How admissions officers look at the scores behind closed doors is anybody’s guess (and it might well be different at different schools).

It may not be too late to take it again. I believe Oct 22 is the next date… Scores come out way more quickly than with the SAT, so even if your ED date is November 1, it might be fine ( check with the school).