Retaking the ACT and SAT: How to improve your score

The number of times you should take the ACT or SAT depends on several factors, including your target score, your initial test performance, and your college application goals. Here are some guidelines to help you decide:

General Recommendations

1. First Attempt: Take the test once during your junior year. This gives you a baseline score and helps you become familiar with the test format.

2. Second Attempt: Plan to take the test a second time in the fall of your senior year. Most students improve their scores on the second attempt.

3. Third Attempt: Consider a third attempt if your score is still not within your target range, or if you believe you can significantly improve with additional study and preparation.

Factors to Consider

1. Score Improvement: Research shows that scores generally improve with additional attempts, especially if you study and address your weak areas.

2. Superscoring: Many colleges use superscoring, which combines the highest section scores from multiple test dates. This can benefit you if you have strong scores in different sections across different test dates.

3. Stress and Fatigue: Taking the test multiple times can be stressful and time-consuming. Consider your mental and emotional well-being.

4. Preparation: Each attempt should be accompanied by additional preparation. Simply retaking the test without studying is unlikely to lead to significant improvement.

5. Application Deadlines: Make sure you have enough time to send your scores to colleges before application deadlines.

Personal Considerations

• Initial Scores: If your initial scores are close to or exceed your target scores, you may not need to retake the test.

• Target Colleges: Research the average scores of admitted students at your target colleges. This can help you determine if you need to retake the test to be competitive.

• Study Plan: Ensure you have a solid study plan in place between test attempts to improve your scores.

• Financial Considerations: Each test attempt costs money, so consider your budget. Fee waivers are available for students who qualify.

Example Plan

1. Junior Year Spring: First attempt to get a baseline score.

2. Senior Year Fall: Second attempt to improve your score based on targeted studying.

3. Senior Year Winter: Third attempt if necessary, with focused preparation on weaker areas.

Conclusion

While most students take the ACT or SAT two to three times, the right number of attempts for you depends on your initial scores, target scores, preparation level, and college application goals. Aim to balance the potential for score improvement with the practical considerations of time, stress, and cost.