SAT Score's Significance in Application Process...?

Applying to College
1

I took the new SAT in October and got a 1360 (690 Reading, 670 Math) and I’m retaking it in January. I’m studying right now (focusing more on math since I plan to go into the medical field), but I’m afraid I might get a lower score. I’ve heard that colleges look down on you if a lower score is received the second time around. Is this true? And even if I do get a lower score, how much will that hurt me if my weighted GPA is still around a 4.0?

Thanks for helping and happy holidays!

2

I doubt you will get a lower score if you practice consistently with test questions that reflect those on the SAT, review your mistakes on any practice tests you take, work on time management (if that’s a concern), and believe in yourself :slight_smile:

Also really important but underrated- get enough sleep starting at least a week before your test date, practice waking up at the time you will wake up on test day, and eat a balanced breakfast too (or at least a healthy snack).

P.S. Many colleges will not require you to send all your scores, but if they do, I don’t think it will make a significant difference if they are lower.

You can do it!

3

" I’ve heard that colleges look down on you if a lower score is received the second time around. Is this true? " No. They WANT to admit you, you know that right?

4
  1. Most college superscore the SAT’s meaning they combine the highest score in each section.
  2. If you get a lower score in every section, you can use score select (for most colleges) and only send them your first SAT.
  3. A number of colleges are test optional so you don’t have to send them any standardized test scores if yours are below the school average. http://www.fairtest.org/university/optional.
  4. Best to go into the test with a positive attitude, not being worried about doing worse on all sections after studying.