<p>So I've seen that a lot of people seem to believe that once you achieve a certain score on the SAT or ACT, you're set and retaking again would be superfluous because colleges only look for a certain score. A common example is that you won't get rejected for an SAT score above 2250.</p>
<p>But many colleges I've visited have said they view the application "holistically" and that there are no formulas.</p>
<p>Additionally, stats from places such as Brown indicate that those with 800s on each section of the test have 1.5-2.5 times more likelihood of getting in.</p>
<p>Do you think this has to do with correlation or causation? Do the people that get 800s get in more frequently BECAUSE of their scores, or does it have to do with other correlative factors?</p>
<p>Can retaking, say, a 2260 and getting a 2350 improve your chances? I know a 2260 wouldn't get someone rejected, but would getting a higher score improve your chances of getting accepted? I would think that a very high score could help someone with slight weaknesses in other areas.</p>
<p>I think it depends on the score breakdown and what you want to study. For example: I am interested in finance/business, both of which require good math skills. Everyone thought I was crazy for retaking a 2300, but I only got a 700 math. Luckily, I got an 800 math II, and felt good when I retook the SATs. If I wanted to be an english teacher, retaking the 2300 wouldn’t have made much sense, but it did in my case</p>
<p>Ds used a “threshold” number so that he didn’t drive himself crazy. I told him come up with a number that he’d be comfortable with, that if hit he’d skip any further testing. I think it’s too easy to get caught up in the “if only” thinking that fosters taking it over and over again. I mean, obviously higher is better, but at some point a score has to be good enough …</p>
<p>Students who get 800s on the SAT are either extremely naturally talented, or extremely dedicated (studied a lot, took the test multiple times)…two traits that can also manifest themselves as better essays, more community service, achievement in national competitions, etc.</p>