Can I retake the SAT and should I

Okay, so I just got my SAT scores back and I’m… not thrilled. I didn’t do awful, but it’s definitely not where I need it to be to get into the colleges I’m targeting. My combined score was a 1250 – 600 on Reading/Writing and 650 on Math. I was aiming for at least a 1400, preferably higher.

I’m a junior right now, so I technically have time to retake it. But I’m also already really busy with AP classes (AP Calc BC, AP Chem, AP US History), extracurriculars (debate team president, volunteer at the animal shelter), and trying to maintain a decent GPA. Adding more SAT prep to the mix feels overwhelming.

So, here’s my actual question:

• Is retaking the SAT worth it? Is a 1250 considered a "bad" score these days?
• When should I retake it? I’m thinking either the August or October administration, but is one better than the other?
• How much should I realistically expect to improve? I studied for a couple of months before this first test, but maybe I wasn’t using the right resources.
• And finally, considering my other commitments, is it even realistic to expect to improve significantly without burning myself out?

My dream schools are mostly competitive state schools and a few smaller, more selective private universities. I know their average SAT scores are higher than what I got. Help!

Answer

Whether or not you should retake the SAT depends on a variety of factors specific to your situation. To determine the best course of action, consider the following:

1. Your Current Score:

• Compare to College Averages: Research the average SAT scores of admitted students at the colleges and universities you are interested in attending. Websites like College Board, individual college websites, and Niche.com provide this information. Determine how your current score stacks up against those averages. If your score is significantly below the average range (particularly the 25th-75th percentile range), retaking the SAT might be beneficial.
• Superscoring Policies: Check if your target colleges participate in "superscoring." Superscoring means they will consider your highest score from each section across multiple test dates. If a college superscores, retaking the SAT to improve a specific section can boost your overall application profile, even if your total score doesn’t drastically increase.
• Score Breakdown: Analyze your score report. Identify your strengths and weaknesses. Did you perform significantly better in one section (e.g., Math) than the other (e.g., Evidence-Based Reading and Writing)? Concentrating on improving your weaker section during a retake can lead to a substantial overall score increase.
• Compare your score to scholarship requirements: Some scholarships require a minimum SAT score.

2. Your Target Colleges and Universities:

• Test-Optional Policies: Be aware of whether the colleges you are applying to have test-optional policies. Many colleges have adopted these policies, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. If a college is test-optional, submitting a lower-than-average SAT score might not strengthen your application. In such cases, focus on other aspects of your application, such as GPA, essays, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation.
• Test-Blind Policies: Some colleges are test-blind, meaning they do not consider SAT or ACT scores at all in their admissions process. In this case, retaking the SAT would not be necessary.
• Major-Specific Requirements: Some programs within a university (e.g., engineering, nursing) might have higher average SAT score expectations than the general undergraduate admission standards. Research any specific requirements for your intended major.

3. Your Preparation and Test-Taking Experience:

• Preparation Level: How much did you prepare for your initial SAT attempt? Did you use official SAT practice tests, study guides, and online resources? Did you take a prep course? If you didn’t prepare adequately, dedicating more time to focused studying could significantly improve your score on a retake.
• Test-Day Conditions: Consider whether any external factors negatively impacted your performance on test day. Were you feeling unwell, excessively anxious, or distracted by the testing environment? If so, a retake under more favorable conditions could yield a better result.
• Test-Taking Strategies: Evaluate your test-taking strategies. Did you manage your time effectively? Did you use process of elimination to narrow down answer choices? Did you skip difficult questions and return to them later? Refining your test-taking approach can contribute to a higher score.
• Improvement Potential: Realistically assess your potential for improvement. Are you willing to dedicate the necessary time and effort to studying? If you are already scoring near the top percentile, the potential for significant improvement might be limited.

4. Time and Resources:

• Study Time: Retaking the SAT requires dedicated study time. Consider your schedule and other commitments (e.g., schoolwork, extracurricular activities, job). Do you have sufficient time to prepare adequately for a retake without sacrificing other important obligations?
• Test Fees: Registering for the SAT involves a fee. Consider the financial implications of retaking the test. Fee waivers are available for eligible students.
• Registration Deadlines: Be aware of SAT registration deadlines. Plan your retake well in advance of college application deadlines.

5. Alternatives to Retaking the SAT:

• ACT: Consider taking the ACT instead of retaking the SAT. Some students perform better on one test than the other. Take a practice ACT to see how you score.
• Focus on Other Application Components: If you decide not to retake the SAT, concentrate on strengthening other aspects of your college application, such as your GPA, essays, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. A strong overall application can compensate for a slightly lower standardized test score, especially at test-optional institutions.

Decision-Making Process:

1. Gather Information: Research the average SAT scores for your target colleges, their testing policies, and any major-specific requirements.
2. Analyze Your Score: Evaluate your current SAT score, your score breakdown, and your previous preparation efforts.
3. Consider Your Resources: Assess your available time, financial resources, and willingness to commit to further study.
4. Weigh the Pros and Cons: List the potential benefits and drawbacks of retaking the SAT.
5. Make an Informed Decision: Based on your individual circumstances, decide whether retaking the SAT is the right course of action for you.

If you are unsure, talk to your high school counselor, a college advisor, or a trusted teacher. They can provide personalized guidance based on your academic profile and college aspirations.