How Many Times Can You Take the SAT?

The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) plays a crucial role in college admissions, especially for students aspiring to top colleges in the US and beyond.

A common concern among test-takers is: How many times can you take the SAT, and what are the best strategies for retaking it?

In this newsletter, we’ll address these questions and share actionable tips to help you optimize your score and strengthen your college application.

How Many Times Can You Take the SAT?

The short answer: There’s no official limit! The College Board, which administers the SAT, allows students to register for as many test dates as they wish. With the SAT offered seven times a year (March, May, June, August, October, November, and December), you have plenty of opportunities to take the test.

However, while you can take the SAT as many times as you want, the real question is: How many attempts are actually beneficial?

How Many Times You Should Take the SAT? What’s the Sweet Spot?

Deciding how many times to take the SAT depends on your goals, preparation, and progress. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, most students find success with 2-3 attempts. Here's why:

1️⃣ First Attempt: Establish a Baseline

• Take the SAT for the first time, this provides a starting point to identify your strengths and areas for improvement.

• Consider this attempt as the main attempt not just practice and aim to perform well—you may surprise yourself!

2️⃣ Second Attempt: Targeted Improvement

• Retake the SAT if you’re not satisfied with your results from the first attempt. This attempt is often where students see their biggest score gains.

• Use your score report from the first test to guide your study plan.

3️⃣ Optional Third Attempt: Refinement

• Take a third test only if you’re close to your target score or need to meet specific requirements for scholarships or college admissions.

For example, if you’re targeting a specific college like New York University, you should target a SAT score of 1520 or above.

SAT Timeline: A Strategic Approach for Success

Planning your SAT timeline effectively can reduce stress, give you time for improvement, and allow you to focus on other aspects of your college application. Here’s a recommended timeline:

1️⃣ First Attempt: After the Summer of Grade 10

• Why This Timing Works:
  Taking the SAT early allows you to establish a baseline score and identify your strengths and areas for improvement without the pressure of college deadlines.

2️⃣ Second Attempt: Fall or Spring of Grade 11

• Why This Timing Works:
  After your first attempt, use the summer and early months of Grade 11 for targeted preparation based on your score report.
  

  This timing ensures you can focus on improving weak areas while still early in the admissions timeline.

3️⃣ Optional Third Attempt: Summer After Grade 11

• Why This Timing Works:
  By now, you’ve likely covered all relevant coursework in school, giving you the advantage of stronger foundational knowledge.

  
  This attempt is best for students who are close to their target score or need slight improvements for scholarships or admissions to competitive programs.

• Key Consideration:
  Make this your final attempt to free up Grade 12 for essays, extracurriculars, and college applications.

Why This Timeline Works

• Early Testing, Less Stress: Starting in Grade 10 gives you time to space out attempts and avoid last-minute cramming.

• Focus on the Whole Application: With your SAT out of the way by Grade 12, you can devote energy to essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars.

• Higher Chances for Acceptance: With all your required documents, test results, and other materials ready, you can confidently apply during the early application cycles, increasing your chances of securing admission to your desired college.

Why Retaking the SAT Can Be Beneficial

Retaking the SAT can offer several advantages:

1️⃣ Familiarity with the Test Format
Each attempt helps you become more comfortable with the test structure and time management.

2️⃣ Addressing Weak Areas
After the first attempt, you’ll know which areas need improvement, allowing for targeted preparation.

3️⃣ Score Superscoring
Superscoring is a policy some colleges use to combine your highest section scores from multiple SAT attempts to create your best possible composite score.

How It Works:
The SAT consists of two main sections:

1. Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW)

2. Math

If you take the SAT multiple times, a college practicing superscoring will select your highest score from each section across all attempts and combine them.

Example:

• First Attempt: EBRW: 650, Math: 700 (Total: 1350)

• Second Attempt: EBRW: 680, Math: 670 (Total: 1350)

With superscoring, the college considers:

• EBRW: 680 (from the second attempt)

• Math: 700 (from the first attempt)

• Superscored Total: 1380

How Many Times Is Too Many?

While there’s no official limit, retaking the SAT more than 3 times may raise questions among admissions officers. Excessive retakes could indicate poor preparation or anxiety under test conditions.

Instead, aim to make each attempt meaningful by following a structured preparation plan.

Best Practices for SAT Retakes

1️⃣ Analyze Your Score Report
After each attempt, thoroughly review your score report to identify strengths and weaknesses. Use this information to create a focused study plan.

2️⃣ Set Realistic Goals
Define clear, achievable goals for your next attempt. For example, aim to increase your Math score by 50 points rather than targeting a perfect 1600.

3️⃣ Revamp Your Study Strategy

• Use resources such as Khan Academy for free, personalized practice.

• Invest in high-quality test prep books or consider hiring a tutor if budget permits.

4️⃣ Take Practice Tests Under Real Conditions
Simulate actual test conditions by taking timed practice tests. This builds stamina and improves time management.

5️⃣ Prioritize Mental and Physical Health
Avoid burnout by balancing study sessions with breaks, exercise, and adequate sleep. Your mental well-being plays a crucial role in test performance.

Final Thoughts

While you can take the SAT as many times as you wish, a strategic approach will yield the best results. Limit your retakes to 2-3 attempts, ensure adequate preparation between tests, and make each attempt count. Remember, your SAT score is just one part of your college application. Balance it with strong extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations to present a well-rounded application.

By following these best practices, you can approach the SAT with confidence and achieve your desired score.

Amol & Nishant,

Co-Founders, The College Crest - Powered by Lets Unbound,

We have worked with thousands of students over the past 7 years. This newsletter captures the essence of our insights to simplify the college readiness journey.

Here are some of the valuable resources and tutorials we’re creating for high school students like you, check them out!