When should I retake the SAT

Okay, so I took the SAT in October and I didn’t do as well as I hoped. My target schools are pretty competitive (think top state schools and maybe a reach to some Ivies), and while my scores weren’t awful, they definitely aren’t in the range I need to be competitive. I got a 1350, with a 680 in math and a 670 in reading/writing.

I’m currently a junior, so I know I have some time. I’m just trying to figure out the best strategy. I’m planning on dedicating more time to studying this time around, maybe even getting a tutor.

Basically, what’s the recommended timeline for retaking the SAT? Should I take it again in the spring? Or wait until the fall of my senior year? What are the pros and cons of each? Also, does taking it too many times look bad? I’m worried about that too. I’m also balancing a pretty rigorous course load (AP classes) and extracurriculars, so I need to be realistic about how much time I can dedicate to studying. Any advice on how to figure out the best time to retake it, given my circumstances?

Answer

The decision of when to retake the SAT depends on several factors, including your target score, college application deadlines, how much you can improve, and testing schedules. Here’s a breakdown of considerations:

1. Target Score and College Goals:

• Research College Score Ranges: The first step is to research the SAT score ranges (specifically the middle 50%) of the colleges you’re interested in. These ranges are often available on the college’s website or through resources like College Board’s BigFuture. Aiming for the higher end of the range, or even above it, can increase your competitiveness.
• Determine How Much You Need to Improve: Compare your current SAT score with your target score. This difference will give you an idea of how much you need to improve to reach your goals. Smaller differences may require less intensive preparation, while larger differences indicate a need for more focused study.
• Superscoring Policies: Investigate whether the colleges you are applying to superscore the SAT. Superscoring means they will take your highest section scores from different test dates to create your best possible composite score. If colleges superscore, you might focus your preparation on improving specific sections rather than trying to improve your score across the board.

2. Application Deadlines:

• Early Decision/Early Action: If you’re applying Early Decision or Early Action (typically deadlines in November), you’ll need to take the SAT by October at the latest, and possibly even earlier (August or September), to ensure scores are received on time. Check the specific deadlines for each college.
• Regular Decision: For Regular Decision deadlines (typically in January), you usually have until the December SAT to take the test. However, it is always best to give yourself a buffer.

3. Study Time and Preparation:

• Allow Adequate Study Time: Substantial score improvement requires dedicated preparation. Plan for at least several weeks or months of consistent study, depending on how much you need to improve. Consider your schedule, extracurricular activities, and other commitments when creating a study plan.
• Identify Weak Areas: Analyze your previous SAT score report to pinpoint areas where you struggled. Focus your study efforts on those specific skills and concepts.
• Practice Tests: Take full-length, official SAT practice tests under timed conditions to simulate the actual testing environment. This helps you assess your progress and identify areas for further improvement.
• Utilize Resources: Use a variety of resources, such as SAT prep books, online courses, tutoring, and Khan Academy’s free SAT prep materials, to enhance your understanding and test-taking skills.

4. Testing Schedule and Registration Deadlines:

• SAT Test Dates: The SAT is typically administered several times a year, usually in August, October, November, December, March, May, and June. Check the College Board website for the official test dates and registration deadlines.
• Registration Deadlines: Be aware of the registration deadlines for each test date. Register well in advance, as late fees apply for registering after the regular deadline.
• Score Release Dates: Keep in mind that it takes several weeks for the SAT scores to be released. Factor this time into your decision-making process, especially if you’re applying to colleges with early deadlines.

5. Test Fatigue and Burnout:

• Avoid Taking the Test Too Many Times: While it’s generally acceptable to take the SAT multiple times, taking it excessively can lead to test fatigue and diminishing returns. Focus on quality preparation rather than simply retaking the test repeatedly without addressing underlying weaknesses.

General Recommendations:

• Retake if you believe you can improve: If you prepared adequately for the first test and feel you underperformed due to test anxiety or other factors, retaking the test after further preparation is often a good idea.
• Aim for at least one retake: Many students improve their scores on a second attempt after becoming more familiar with the test format and content.
• Prioritize preparation over multiple retakes: Focus on improving your skills and knowledge rather than relying solely on retaking the test multiple times hoping for a better score.
• Consult with a guidance counselor: Your high school guidance counselor can provide personalized advice based on your academic record, college goals, and individual circumstances.

In summary, to determine when you should retake the SAT, consider:

1. Your target score and the score ranges of your desired colleges.
2. Your application deadlines (Early Decision/Action vs. Regular Decision).
3. The amount of study time you need to improve.
4. The SAT test dates and registration deadlines.
5. Your overall well-being and the risk of test fatigue.

Careful planning and preparation are key to maximizing your chances of achieving your target SAT score.