Once is (Probably) Not Enough: Plan to Take the SAT or ACT Multiple Times

I know the SAT or ACT and can daunting, but here's some good news: you don't have to nail it on the first try. In fact, one of the best strategies is to plan to take these tests more than once. It might initially feel like you're signing up for extra homework, but trust me, it's a strategy that pays off, and here's why:

Reason 1: Enter, the Superscore

Many colleges follow a policy of "superscoring," where they don't just consider the total score of a single test administration. Instead, they take your highest scores from each section across different test dates and combine them. This is like creating your personal "greatest hits" album, showcasing your peak performance in each area.

Just imagine having an off day when you take your first SAT or ACT. Maybe you ace the Math section, but your score in the Reading section isn't what you had hoped for. With superscoring, that's okay. You can retake the test, focus on improving your Reading score, and the college will use the highest score from each section when evaluating your application. In essence, this approach rewards your persistence, allowing the college to see your full potential rather than a snapshot of you on a single test day.

Reason 2: It’s a Numbers Game, and They're in Your Favor

The second reason to take these tests multiple times is grounded in cold, hard facts: the more you try, the better you are likely to perform. About two-thirds of students who retake the SAT see their scores improve, and the same holds true for the ACT. That’s right! The stats are in your corner.

Consider this: on your first attempt, you're encountering the test's style, time pressure, and format all at once. It's like jumping into the deep end of the pool without having swum a lap. But with each subsequent attempt, you’re more familiar with the test. You learn from your past mistakes, gain a better understanding of the questions, and can manage your time more effectively. The result? Your score sees a boost.

Ultimately, the goal here isn’t just to take the test multiple times for the sake of repetition, but to use each attempt as a stepping stone to reach a higher score. You are not defined by your first try, or even your second. Each time you step into that test room, you bring with you a wealth of experience from your previous attempts, ready to put it to use.

So, remember, planning to take the SAT or ACT multiple times isn't a sign of uncertainty or a lack of preparation. It's a strategy—a smart one at that—to ensure you present the best version of yourself to the colleges of your dreams.