Okay, so I’ve taken the SAT 3 times so far and I’m a senior. I’m mad at myself because I didn’t do an ounce of studying or prep for this test, not once. I shouldn’t have taken the August one knowing that I hadn’t studied. Still, I managed to somehow improve my score 50 points each time I took it. I got a 1340 in March, a 1390 in August and a 1440 in October (750 reading, 690 math). This is the same as my super-score (still 1440). However, I am just now getting serious about researching colleges and a few of the colleges that I want to apply to have SAT averages that are higher than my score. My math score is the one that is lower than my english, but I’m pretty good at math and I know that if I study the concepts needed (things I never learned in school like those circle equations and a/b constant things) then I can easily improve my score. My goal is a 1500 and then I’ll be happy. I just feel like if I’m able to get a 1440 without studying, I must have more potential than I’m using- and it would be a waste to not try. Also I really want to enter Northeastern University’s explore program, and I also really want to see about scholarships to other universities, as I know that SATs play a big role in how much money you can get.
So, do colleges look down on you if you take the sat 4 times? Most people seem to take it 2-3 times, and I’ve seen a lot of people say that 3 times is the maximum or something. Will they average my scores if it’s more than 3? I’m almost sure that I will improve my score if I get the chance to take it again with studying. So- do you think it’s better to try again for a 1500 (or at least a high 1400) with 4 total scores, or should I just leave my 1440? Which would be better? Thanks!
Also, as a senior, I can still take the SAT in December for regular decision deadlines, right? Or is that too late?
I’m sure you’ve figured out that if you had done some prep the first and definitely the second time around, you could probably have gotten to where you need to be and stopped at test #2. Water under the bridge at this point. Statistics have shown that the chances of increasing your score drop after the 2nd go round. That you improved 50 points taking it a second and third time does not guarantee you will get that elusive 60 point gain taking it for a 4th time.
You are putting a lot of weight on the SAT. What is your GPA like? What about academic rigor? Meaningful EC’s? Taking the SAT = money + time. If you are sacrificing any of those other things in the pursuit of some magical score that you may not get the 4th time around, that’s not good. 1440 is smack in the middle of the 1400-1500 range per Northeastern’s academic profile, and they review applications holistically, so they want the whole package. Don’t know about the other schools you are considering, but you need to look at the totality of your application and put the time where it’s going to yield you the most.
I don’t think it can hurt you to take it again unless you’re applying to a school that requires you to submit all scores - asl I understand it, most schools let you choose which/how many scores you want to send. This is what the College board website says:
“With Score Choice™, you can put your best foot forward by choosing which scores you send to colleges. Choose by test date for the SAT and by individual test for SAT Subject Tests—but keep in mind that some colleges and scholarship programs require you to send all your scores.”
There are tests on Nov 4th and Dec 2nd that you can still register for - but the Nov registration deadline is in 5 days.
If you have the time and motivation to study for another try, go ahead and do it if you want to give it your best effort. But I agree with ^ 1440 is a great score.
If you are going to study I definitely suggest trying it again.
It is better to take it the 4th times to get a better score then settle with a dissatisfied score. Nevertheless, you are the one to get you into this situation. If you are not going to prepare thoroughly this time, then forget about it. A 10-20 point gain is not worth money, time, and revealing you either score obsessive or a sloppy test taker.