SAT: To Retake or Not to Retake

<p>I took the SAT last year and got a score of 2170 (W: 770, CR: 760, M: 640). I also took the SAT Subject Tests in literature and U.S. history (L: 800, H:770). I'm very happy with the subject test scores; the SAT score is fine, too, but it's a bit low for the schools to which I'm applying, and I'm afraid that the gap between my math score and those of the other two sections might be detrimental to my applications, along with the fact that the writing section would have been perfect had I not gotten an 8 on the essay. </p>

<p>I was going to retake the SAT in November, then take more subject tests (biology & world history) in December. However, something came up which will force me to miss the Nov. date, and unfortunately, it doesn't qualify me for an alternate testing time. I still need to finish all testing by Dec. to include the scores on my applications.</p>

<p>Given that I'm applying to Cornell, Johns Hopkins, UNC-Chapel Hill (out-of-state), and other comparable schools as a potential Government/International Relations, Psychology, or English major (I favor different programs at different schools), should I use the Dec. date to retake the SAT, or to take more subject tests? In case it makes any difference, I was home schooled.</p>

<p>Retake the SAT because it is always a bigger priority than subject tests. It seems like you’ve only taken the SAT once and most people improve by retaking. Your math score is relatively low for where you want to apply so only focus on reviewing math if you do review. </p>