I took my SAT this January (the last one ranging 0-2400) I studied assiduously for a month and took SAT Prep class. I took about 3 practice exams and scored 1500-1680. My GPA as a junior is 3.8 unweighted and 4.3 weighted. I’ve taken 5 AP Classes so far and am planning to take 4 more my senior year. I scored a 1530 on my SAT with a 9 on the essay 470 math(I’m bad at math, that’s why I’m taking AP Stats) 500 on critical reading and 560 on writing. I’m mortified by my SAT exam because I know I have potential to get into a university because I’m extremely hard working and my communicating skills are great. I’m currently an officer of MUN at my school and working on community service hours with multiple clubs. I’ve been in Varsity volleyball for 3 years but played for 4. All of my teachers expected me to get a high score on my SAT due to my astuteness and dedication. I’m planning on retaking it but I just want to know my chances of getting in a UC.
I was in the same exact position you are in now, when I was a junior (I am senior now). The first time I took the SAT I got a 1470, a really bad score for my GPA (4.4). I raised it to a 1610 with no prep classes, only using the SAT blue prep book by myself. Next time you take the SAT (I know it will not be the same), but calm down and do your best, do not think that it will decide your whole college career.
Also, there are great CSU campuses out there. Depending on where you live, you will be a shoo-in for schools such as SDSU and Cal Poly SLO. These schools are better than low-tier and some of the mid-tier UCs, and cheaper too. Remember, when filling out UC applications, highlight the things you have done and excel in. If you have good EC’s and a good GPA, like you have, those may compensate for your lower test scores. In my opinion, you will have (if you stay on the same track) a good chance at UCR, UCSC, and UCM.