<p>I took the SAT and ACT each one time and did fairly good on both (2050, 31 - right around the range I needed for the colleges I'm most interested in). But everyone says that I'm guaranteed to do better the second time around, especially since I went in cold, no studying, the first time. Is it worth the retake? Should I put in the time to prep this time? Will there really be a significant difference?</p>
<p>Get a study guide, like 10 Real SATs, and take a couple of practice tests, timed at home. By the second test, you should be able to judge how much better you might be able to do. I think it’s likely that you will do better on a retake, but probably only if you take the time to practice in a timed situation, see where your weaknesses are, and put a little extra effort in those areas.</p>
<p>If you put in the time and take some practice tests, you will see a significant difference. I took the SAT three times. But if you just go in cold again, you won’t see any difference at all. And if you do see some improvement, I’m guessing it wont be any major difference.
Personally, I took the SAT three times. Went in cold the first time and got an 1800. Studied a bit more for the second time and got a 2190. Did a bunch of practice tests and memorized a lot of vocab for the third time and got a 2360. Pretty great improvement in my scores 
I’d say its definitely worth the retake. Try to get as high of a score as possible. You could get some scholarships with better scores.</p>
<p>Thanks for the advice - I plan on a retake this fall!! And I will do some prep work this time:)</p>