How many times can you take the SAT? Your retake strategy guide

Key takeaways about retaking the SAT

• You can take the SAT as many times as you want — there’s no official limit.
• Most students take the SAT 2–3 times for their best shot at a higher score.
• Colleges often use “superscoring” to combine your best section scores.
• Too many retakes might raise questions, but they won’t ruin your chances.
• Have a game plan: retake only if you have a solid reason and real prep.

Wondering how many times you can take the SAT? Here’s the deal.

If you’ve ever taken a test and thought, “I know I can do better,” you’re not alone. Most students don’t crush the SAT on the first try—and that’s totally normal. The good news? You’ve got more than one shot to show what you’re made of.

But how many retakes are actually smart? Do colleges start to judge you? Is there even a limit? Let’s break it all down.

Is there a limit to how many times I'm allowed to take the SAT?

Here’s the short answer: no. The College Board (aka the organization behind the SAT) lets you register and retake the test as many times as it’s offered.

That’s usually seven times a year in the U.S., starting in March and ending in December. So, in theory, you could take the SAT every time it’s offered starting your sophomore year.

But should you? That’s a different question.

So how many times should I take the SAT?

Let’s be clear: you don’t need a perfect score or endless retakes to get into college. For most students, two or three times max is the sweet spot. It shows you're persistent and strategic, and not overly focused on test scores. 

If you’re improving each time and you’ve got a reason to retake—go for it. But if your scores aren't getting any higher and you feel like you're burning out, it’s okay to move on. Your college future is way bigger than a test score.

Taking the SAT more than three times isn’t unheard of, but there should be a clear purpose behind it.

Why would I retake the SAT?

Retaking the SAT makes sense if:

• You didn’t prep enough the first time.
• You had a bad day (test anxiety, illness, etc.).
• Your score doesn’t reflect your potential.
• You want to qualify for scholarships (yes, better scores can = more $$).
• You’re aiming for a more competitive school or honors program.

Basically, retaking the SAT can be a power move — if you’ve got a solid reason to do it and a strategy to improve.

Does taking the SAT too many times look bad to colleges?

Not really, but some schools might raise an eyebrow if they see six test attempts without much improvement. They might think you're test-obsessed or that your prep strategy isn’t working.

Colleges usually see all your SAT scores if you choose to send them. But most allow you to pick which scores to share. And a lot of schools now use superscoring, where they take your best section scores across multiple test dates.

Translation? If you score higher in Math on your second attempt and crush Reading on your third, superscoring means the school will look at the best of both. Total win.

How colleges actually use SAT scores

Colleges know you’re more than just a number—and they read your application that way. SAT scores help colleges compare students from different schools, states, and backgrounds. 

But here’s the deal. Colleges do look at your test scores, but they also consider your entire story: your grades, your activities, your essays, your rec letters, and who you are beyond the numbers.

So a great SAT score can totally help you — especially if you’re applying to super selective schools — but it’s definitely not the only thing that matters. And with more schools going test-optional, your SAT score can be a bonus, not a barrier.

What's the downside of taking the SAT lots of times?

There are a few things to consider before scheduling test #4 (or 5 or 6):

1. Time and energy: SAT prep takes work. You could use that time to boost your GPA, write killer admission essays, or apply for scholarships.
2. Stress: Test burnout is real. If retaking the SAT adds more anxiety than it’s worth, it might be time to pivot.
3. Cost: Every SAT registration costs money, and prep courses can be pricey. (Though fee waivers exist—ask your counselor!)
4. Diminishing returns: If your score isn’t changing much between attempts, that’s a signal to adjust your strategy—not just keep retesting.

How to maximize your SAT scores

Your SAT game plan should feel like progress, not pressure. Here's how to keep things balanced and intentional:

1. Take a practice test early:  Get a baseline score in 10th or early 11th grade.
2. Prep smart: Use free resources from The College Board or team up with a tutor if you can. Focus on your weak spots.
3. Take the real SAT in spring of 11th grade: That’s the sweet spot: you’ve learned most of the content in school and have time to retest if needed.
4. Retake in the fall of 12th grade—if necessary: Only go for a second or third try if you’re confident you can improve.

Don’t just “hope for the best.” Go in with a plan, track your progress, and don’t test just to test.

Superscoring is your friend

Superscoring is like a highlight reel of your best SAT moments.

Say you took the SAT twice:

• First attempt: You score 650 Math, 700 Reading.
• Second attempt: You score 700 Math, 650 Reading

Your superscore? 700 Math + 700 Reading = 1400.

That 1400 is the superscore that many colleges would look at. Check each college’s policy, though—some don’t superscore (but many do).

Bonus tip: Use your SAT score to win scholarships

Some scholarship programs consider your SAT score when awarding money for college. So that 50-point bump from your second attempt? Could be worth thousands.

Check out Scholly Scholarships to discover scholarships that match your unique profile. And while you’re dreaming big, use Scout College Search to find schools that fit your goals, vibe, and budget.

Keep the SAT in perspective

You don’t have to be a test-taking machine to get into a great school. What really matters is having a game plan, knowing yourself, and remembering that your SAT score is just one part of your story. 

So take the SAT seriously—but don’t let it take over your life.

Whether you ace it on your first try or hit your stride on round three, you’ve got options. Use your tools, know your limits, and give yourself grace. College is about discovering who you are— not just what you score.