Retake SAT (2340) or ACT (35), both or neither?

Test Preparation
1

<p>First of all, I am not a troll. I am trying to protect my identity by using a new account. Thank you.</p>

<p>I am currently signed up for the June ACT in the hopes that I can score a 36 (i've gotten a 33 and a 35). However, I am having doubts because I don't want colleges to think I am devoting a significant portion of my time to this endeavor. </p>

<p>My SAT score is not as close, so I may retake the test in November (my M + CR = 1540). </p>

<p>My question is: do I stand to benefit from taking either test? I feel like I can do better if I get a bit luckier (I got hit pretty hard by the curves on the two tests). And will I be giving off a negative impression of myself, simply because I am trying to improve my scores? </p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

2

<p>I honestly think you don’t need to retake any of the tests. They’re very excellent scores. Any score in the 2300+ range—you’re set.</p>

3

<p>I have the same question about my 35…like does a 36 matter THAT much?</p>

4

<p>Some people obviously like to brag a bit…</p>

5

<p>Thank you jubilee. That was my initial thought, but I’m already signed up…if I retake and don’t improve my score, will that hurt me?</p>

<p>And in response to sylvan, I am not trying to brag or boast. The fact is that 12 people from my school have already scored 36 (public school). I am not convinced by the theory that colleges don’t compare one to his or her peers in a given class, though if there is any evidence (statistical or anecdotal) to the contrary, I’d appreciate the insight.</p>

6

<p>They may compare but at some point (score level) they look to other things to make their decisions. With a 35, you have reached that level. The other pieces of your application will now make the difference.</p>

7

<p>I agree with splat11. I think above a 2300 or 35, colleges honestly do not care too much about what your exact scores are. A perfect score may get you bragging rights (eh, sylvan8798?), but I don’t think it makes a significant difference in the holistic overview of your application, especially if you are also strong in other areas.</p>

8

<p>I think colleges will just think you have too much time on your hands, and money to waste. ( The latter being a good thing I suppose?)</p>

9

<p>Never mind - deleted my post</p>

10

<p>this is a simple question: assess the risk in scoring lower, the time needed, the chance of scoring better and how much better, and say: is it worth it?</p>

<p>the fact that you are unsure in your capabilities and unsure in whether you should retake is telling me that you probably shouldn’t retake. Although, with score choice you have no risk, except with schools that do nto accept it.</p>

11

<p>Don’t worry about what colleges would think of you taking it multiple times - only send in your best score! You don’t have to send them all.</p>

12

<p>Only a prick would try to retake the SAT after getting a 2340. Be happy and move on with life. Save yourself a Saturday morning.</p>

13

<p>depends on the breakdown. if you got two 800s and a 740, I actually think I’d retake it to try to improve that section. For the ACT I really don’t think you should retake.</p>

14

<p>Thanks again for all of the responses (splat, vulpix, Kalookakoo…). </p>

<p>RAlec/Quomodo: That was, in fact, my breakdown. That is why I am a touch concerned. But I’m taking subject tests in October, so I probably won’t be able to send in another SAT score in time for EA (November/December are okay for RD, right?). </p>

<p>Deposition: What I am most worried about are the colleges that don’t permit Score Choice. If I don’t improve on a retake, I may be (sub)consciously penalized for apparently “wasting” a Sat. morning, as DistanceDan said, even though I am really not devoting much time to this extra test.</p>

15

<p>Those are both very excellent scores. I wouldn’t retake either of them.</p>

16

<p>What about a 2250(with 1560 M+CR)? Should I retake it?</p>