How Many Times Should a Student Take the SAT or ACT?

Standardized exams like the SAT test and ACT test still play a big role in college admissions. They test more than just knowledge—they challenge a student's test-taking strategy, time management, and endurance over a long, exhausting exam. But, while these scores matter, taking the SAT/ACT test too many times can backfire.

So, how many times should a student take the SAT/ACT test? It all depends on individual goals, starting scores, and what colleges are looking for.

Score at the Top helps students make smart decisions about retaking the test, offering personalized SAT/ACT exam prep and guidance. If you are unsure whether to test again or focus on other parts of your application, this blog can help you create the best plan for success.

Let's break it down:

1. Understanding Score Trends and Retake Policies 

Taking the SAT test or ACT test multiple times may help improve scores, to a point. But how many times is optimal, and when does it become counterproductive? Here is what the data show:

Average Number of Attempts

Typically, students take the SAT/ACT test two to three times. This is the sweet spot for maximizing score improvement. The first attempt gives students a baseline, while the second allows them to improve with specific practice.

If needed, a third attempt provides one last chance to fine-tune performance. Beyond that, additional attempts often result in minimal gains.

Score Improvement Trends 

Research reveals that most students see the biggest improvement between their first and second attempts. By the third attempt, score increases tend to taper off, meaning students experience diminishing returns. Retaking both the SAT test or ACT test beyond this point may not improve results significantly and could increase stress or test fatigue.

Focus on better SAT/ACT exam prep before a retake to maximize results efficiently.

College Superscoring vs. Single Score Submission 

Colleges vary in how they evaluate standardized test scores. Some calculate the highest scores from each section across multiple test dates to create a "superscore." For example, a student's highest math score from one test date and reading score from another could combine to create a stronger overall score. On the other hand, some colleges only consider the highest composite score from a single sitting.

Understanding your target schools' policies helps you plan retakes strategically.

2. Factors to Consider When Retaking the SAT or ACT 

Before scheduling another exam date, it's important to assess whether retaking the SAT test or ACT test is necessary. Here are the most important factors to weigh: 

A. Initial Score and Target Score 

• Score Comparison: Take a look at your current SAT test or ACT test score and compare it to the typical scores of students accepted at your target colleges.

• Retake Considerations: If there is a significant gap, retaking the SAT/ACT test might be a good idea—but improving requires focused preparation. Simply retaking without a solid strategy will not necessarily lead to better results.

• Importance of Percentiles: Familiarize yourself with percentile rankings, as a higher percentile reflects stronger competitiveness. For instance, an SAT score of 1350 places you in the 90th percentile, making you a more competitive candidate for admissions and scholarships.

 B. Study Effort and Strategy Changes

• Developing a New Study Plan: Take time to reassess weaker areas identified from the first SAT test or ACT test attempt. Create a targeted plan that dedicates more time to problem areas while strengthening knowledge.

• Use Additional Resources: Enrolling in SAT/ACT exam prep courses, hiring a tutor, or using online platforms can provide new perspectives and techniques. A tutor, for example, can offer tailored guidance to address specific weaknesses, helping students maximize their scores more efficiently.

• Take Practice Tests: Simulating the test environment through timed practice exams is invaluable. It helps fine-tune time management and builds stamina and confidence for the SAT/ACT test.

C. Test Fatigue and Stress Levels 

• Avoid Overloading Yourself: Preparing for SAT/ACT test retakes while managing overall college application tasks or extracurricular commitments can be overwhelming. To avoid burnout, schedule study time wisely and allow for rest.

• Focus on Mental Well-Being: Test anxiety is common, especially after prior disappointing SAT test or ACT scores. Integrate stress-relief strategies like mindfulness, exercise, or regular breaks to maintain emotional equilibrium and improve focus.

• Align Retakes Strategically: Rather than rushing into consecutive test attempts, plan retakes strategically after thorough preparation. Quality over quantity is key—focused SAT/ACT exam prep leads to more meaningful score improvements than repeated attempts without a clear strategy.

3. When Should a Student Retake the SAT/ACT Test?

Retaking the test can be worth it, but only under the right circumstances. Here are scenarios where it makes sense to give the test another shot: 

A. If the First Attempt Was a Low-Stakes Practice Test 

Sometimes, the first attempt at the SAT test or ACT test is treated as a chance to get familiar with the format and pacing. A well-prepared retake is justified if your initial score is far from your goal or does not reflect your potential.

B. If There Was a Significant External Factor Affecting Performance 

Did nerves get the best of you? Were you sick or otherwise distracted on test day? These situations can lead to SAT/ACT test results that do not represent your best effort. If this applies to you, a second or third attempt makes perfect sense.

C. If the Score Is Close to a Scholarship or College Cutoff 

Many colleges and scholarships have specific SAT/ACT test score cutoffs. A small bump in your score can mean the difference between thousands of dollars in scholarship money or admission to a competitive school. If you are close to a key threshold, preparing for and retaking the test could pay off in a big way.

D. If the Student Has More Time to Prepare and Improve 

If you are retaking the test, do so with a clear plan for improvement. A new study program, additional tutoring, or dedicated practice sessions targeting weak areas can make a substantial difference. Only retake the exam if you have the time and resources to adequately prepare—otherwise, you might end up with the same results.

4. When Should a Student Avoid Retaking the SAT/ACT Test? 

Sometimes, retaking the SAT test or ACT test may not make sense. Here is when you should stick with your scores and move on:

• If the score is already competitive for target colleges. If your SAT/ACT test scores fall within or above the typical range for accepted students at your target schools, there is no need to stress over improvement. Your time may be better spent strengthening other areas of your application.

• If there is no significant time for improvement. Do not rush into another test without a proper plan for preparation. You are unlikely to see meaningful score increases without sufficient time to study, whether through self-guided practice or structured SAT/ACT exam prep.

• If stress or burnout is already overwhelming. Repeated test attempts can lead to stress and frustration. Recognize when to step back and focus on other parts of your college application.

• If other parts of your application require more attention. Remember, test scores are just one piece of the puzzle. Colleges also care about your GPA, essays, extracurricular activities, and recommendation letters. In fact, 88% of top-ranked colleges rate extracurricular activities as "Important" or "Very Important" in admissions decisions. So, instead of stressing over minor test score improvements, focus on building a well-rounded application.

5. Alternatives to Retaking the SAT/ACT Test

If another round of standardized testing sounds overwhelming, there are other strategies to strengthen your application: 

• Explore test-optional colleges. Many colleges no longer require SAT test or ACT test scores. If test-taking is not your strength, research schools with optional scores and focus on showcasing your academic potential in other ways.

• Focus on other areas of your application. Building a strong personal statement, earning stellar recommendation letters, and demonstrating leadership in extracurriculars can all help offset weaker SAT/ACT test scores. Top colleges increasingly emphasize a well-rounded application over just high test scores.

• Consider switching tests. If you have struggled with the SAT test, the ACT test may suit your strengths better—or vice versa. The two exams differ in timing, structure, and content, and some students perform significantly better on one over the other. Taking a diagnostic test or working with an expert can help determine which test best aligns with your skills.

Final Thoughts

Here is your revised conclusion with naturally infused keywords and a CTA for your client:

How many times should you take the SAT or ACT? For most students, two to three attempts are ideal. Retake the SAT/ACT test only if you have clear reasons, such as aiming for a scholarship, addressing external factors, or having a solid improvement plan.

Your score is just one piece of a holistic application, and colleges consider much more than a single number.

Score At The Top offers expert SAT/ACT exam prep and personalized college admissions guidance to help you make the best choices for your future.

Contact us for more information!