How Many SATs Should I Take?

by: Mallika Das

Throughout your junior and senior years, there are multiple chances to take the SAT tests. It is common for people to take it more than once, but how do you know how many is enough? Some people may say that the more the better, but I would recommend against that. Firstly, you have other school work to do, and preparing for the SATs takes a lot of time. So, it is better to prepare well and take the test only two or three times, rather than sign up for multiple and prepare less.

Secondly, the tests are very long and draining, so it may not be a good idea to put yourself through that several times a year. If you feel that you could really improve if you take the test again, then do it. But be warned, you should be really determined to do better otherwise taking the test again will be for nothing.

Also, the tests are expensive. It costs around $50 for each test, so taking multiple will add up eventually. If you are happy with your score, don’t waste your money on the small chance that you could get a slightly higher one.

Most schools are now test-optional as well, so taking the SATs isn’t as detrimental as it once was. I can’t keep you from deciding not to take it at all, but I’d highly recommend you take it at least once, just to see where you’d score and how you feel about taking standardized tests. Getting to know how you do best on these kinds of tests can help you in the future when you have bigger and more important tests in college.

In my experience, taking the SAT twice was good enough. Taking it a third time wouldn’t hurt either, but I’d be careful if you plan to take it more times than that. Save your mental energy for your schoolwork and activities, which are much more important when applying to college.