I first took the SAT in January and got a 1450, since then I have taken a SAT prep (testmasters) course and taken numerous practice tests, and my may SAT score was only a 1530. I am just so frustrated I don’t even want to go take the SAT tomorrow. I did so much practice and my score hardly increased. I am applying for college this fall, should I just give up? 
What happens if people say yes?
Give up as in giving up to go to college? I mean its your future.
@sharkshockey no. just in raising my SAT score. I’m going to college. I just feel hopeless about my SAT score.
Sorry for the misunderstanding. I believe some colleges accept SAT scores from October. You should research the colleges you want to get into and see if you can take the October one if you January score is not up to your expectations. You have 2-3 months to study before the October one and I suggest you to look at the posts on CC and work even harder to get what you want. The SAT test isn’t really an intelligence test, and almost every average American can get a decent score if they work their butts off. Also, I would suggest you to change up your approach to studying as it doesn’t seem to improve your score by a lot. Good luck. I’m also taking the test tmr.
@sharkshockey Thank you for the information. Good luck tomorrow!
Well, it’s not how many tests you take, it’s about how you are going to study to not make those mistakes again. Quality is better than Quantity. Stop doing more tests. Try to see the errors that you made on the test. Practice a lot. Review all the tests. I don’t know if this method will help you, but try to write all the wrong and even the ones you weren’t sure when you did the test on a notebook.
a lot of colleges will accept the ACT in lieu of SAT scores, and kids who struggle with the SAT sometimes find the ACT easier. have you tried an ACT practice test? maybe if you go that route, you’ll see an improvement in your score.
in any case, i agree with the above post; i too have tried cramming by doing practice tests, and have also found that the best way to improve is to actually learn the material. the SAT tests skills rather than inherent intelligence; for example, they always test the same 18 grammar rules (id suggest googling them), and there is a formula that can be followed to get a high essay score. same goes with math–they always test the same concepts. it’s just a matter of learning how to approach the test. feel free to message me if you want more tips. good luck!
Hi Liz,
Don’t mind it too much. To better your chance with colleges, though, maybe try out the ACT? Many people suffer at SAT but do relatively well on the ACT, so you should give it a shot.
Also, my friend had similar SAT scores as you, but he got into UW with full-ride scholarship. He has a high GPA (3.96-7), high class rank, LOTS of volunteer work (1500), and leadership positions such as Key Club VP.
So, the SAT score won’t hinder your chances too much (unless you are aiming for UCLA or something) if you excel in other areas!