I recently took the SAT and got a 1490. I want to score 1500+, but I’m conflicted about whether or not I should retake. On my math section, I got 780. I’ve scored 790 on math multiple times on my practice tests which would have gotten me to my desired 1500. However, I scored 710 in the reading/writing section when I scored usually scored 660-680 on my practice tests.
Also, I’m worried that if I retake the SAT, I will get 790+ on math which would make my superstore 1500, but my reading/writing score will drop. So… what should I do?
A vast majority of schools either take the best single day or superscore. So your worst case is the existing 1490. Are you looking at one of the very, very small number of schools that request/look at all scores?
Having said that, if you scored higher that you typically do on practice tests, is there a reason to think you’ll do even better next time?
Depends upon the average SAT scores for your targeted schools.
Have you considered sitting for the ACT ?
I think a good rule of thumb would be to ensure that each of your subscores are at or above the 75th percentile for the schools you’re applying to. You can determine that by looking at the common data set for those schools.
But, please, please, please don’t consider that the or the most important fit criteria.
@RichInPitt If I were to retake the SAT, it would only be to try to get 790+ in math which I can and have done on practice tests. Getting 710 in reading/writing surprised me and I don’t think I will improve that score. But is it worth to have to study and do practice tests just to raise my score by 10-20 (superscore) when I could be using that time for other things?
I agree with the rec to look at 25%-75%ile SAT scores of admitted (usually higher than the matriculated numbers on the CDS) students at the schools on your list.
But posters could make more helpful recommendations about re-taking the SAT if you give us more info.
Are you a junior?
What is your uwGPA? How many honors/AP classes have you taken?
What schools are on your application list?
@Mwfan1921 Thanks for the feedback.
I am currently a junior attending a Canadian High school. I recently moved from the US where I was for 9th grade so I’m a little confused about the GPA systems.
However, my grades average to an A-. Also, I looked online and saw that an 85+ in Canada is a 4.0.
I am currently self studying AP bio.
I have taken SAT Bio (770) and plan to take SAT Math 2 later this year.
Regarding schools, I haven’t done much research yet, but I am aiming for tier 1 schools.
If you are aiming for top tier US schools, I would recommend you take the SAT again. Your EBRW score is the one you should focus on, with a goal of 750. Use resources like Khan Academy, Pwn the SAT, and/or a tutor to increase this score. A 10 or 20 point move in math would likely matter relatively less…unless you are considering schools like MIT, CalTech, or CMU.
A few schools will require all SAT tests…Georgetown, CMU, Yale are the most selective schools that do so, at least as of right now.
Aim to create a balanced college list with several reaches, a handful of match/target schools, and at least one affordable safety that you would be happy to attend.
Good luck.