<p>In the week leading up to the test, I took about 3 practice tests and consistently got 2370, 2390, etc. so I was feeling pretty okay about it all. However, the day before the test I ran into some family issues that really broke me emotionally.</p>
<p>Predictably, my confidence was quite a bit shattered and I went into the test not feeling my greatest. I ended up bombing math (I know of at least 2 questions I've gotten wrong) which will probably translate into a score of less than 2300, depending on the curve. Please don't insinuate that I am trying to brag or anything, I am legitimately shaken by this. I was quite confident I would only have to take the test once, and I'm pretty annoyed at myself for allowing my emotions/anxiety to get in the way. </p>
<p>My question is, should I cancel my scores (This would be difficult logistically as I'm international and I'm pretty sure my counselor would find it suspicious and I really don't want to elaborate about the family issues) or should I just re-take in November/January (does it look bad to take the test twice)? Is it too late to sign up for November?</p>
<p>Thanks so much for your help and please no negativity, I'm already feeling quite horrible as it is.</p>
<p>Don’t cancel your test. You can take the SAT upto 3 times without it having a negative effect (4 or more is way too much though). Since most colleges superscore, you might get higher in writing & reading this time than you will next time (or math, who knows?). You never know how good/bad your score is after taking the test, so just wait it out.</p>
<p>Alright, I probably won’t cancel because it does seem like a bit of a cowardly thing to do. However, would it be wise for me to take the November test? I know I’m completely prepared for it, and I don’t want the SAT 1 to drag on for too long. Or would it be better to take the January and do some extra studying over the break? (I was planning to do II’s in January)</p>
<p>Again, much thanks for advice.</p>
<p>Studying for the SAT wouldn’t be as beneficial to your score as studying for the Subject Test, the Subject Tests are more ‘studyable’ (I know that’s not a word, but you get my point) than the normal SAT, especially if you’re prepared to take the SAT I next November. You will have to pay a late fee though, so if your financial circumstances don’t allow that then you can sign up to take it in December instead. Since you’re planning on taking the SAT2 in January, I’m assuming you’re not a senior, since January is past the deadline for most Regular Decision colleges in the US. If you are a senior, take the SAT in Nov and SAT2 in December.</p>
<p>Yeah, I totally understand what you mean by non “studyable”- all I did, really, was familiarize myself with the test, and I think I’m ready. I’m just worried that I may benefit from a break, or that taking it in such quick succession might be too stressful (especially given family issues). I’m a junior and the registration/late fee is not a problem, so I do have options open. </p>
<p>I’m just worried, because November is smack in the middle of the most stressful time of the year, but if I wait until January, my IIs will be put off even longer and cause more stress in the long run. Which is better?</p>
<p>So sorry for my endless questioning!</p>
<p>Why not take it in December then? That would give you a good break and also be early enough to not hamper any SATII studying. The December test date is December 7th, more than a month and a half before the January SATII and more than a month and a half away.</p>