The Impact of SAT/ACT Test-Taking Frequency on College Admissions

Many students wonder how often they can take the SAT or ACT and if the number of times they take these tests affects their college admissions chances. While students have the freedom to retake the tests multiple times, the number of test attempts is not always viewed positively by colleges. In this article, we explore how admission officers consider test-taking frequency and the different policies colleges have.

Frequency of SAT/ACT Testing

Students can indeed take the SAT as many times as they want, given the flexible test dates throughout the year—typically around seven test dates per year. Most students tend to take the SAT once at the end of their junior year and again at the beginning of their senior year. This allows them to see their improvement over time and adjust their preparation accordingly (College Board, 2022).

Admissions Officers' Perceptions

Experts at PrepScholar recommend that students limit their test retakes to six times. Taking the test too frequently might raise doubts in the admissions committee about the student's preparation level. Conversely, taking the test only once might signal little willingness to improve, which is detrimental because most students see a score increase on their second attempt.

College Policies on Test-Scores

The significance of SAT/ACT scores in college admissions varies widely among different institutions. Many colleges have adopted test-optional or test-blind policies, particularly after the pandemic. These policies indicate that colleges don't solely focus on standardized test scores when reviewing applications.

Test-Optional Policies

Some colleges allow students to decide whether to submit their SAT or ACT scores. This can be advantageous for students who perform poorly on standardized tests. By opting out, these students avoid having their weaker test scores impact their application negatively.

For example, at College Board, many universities allow students to choose if they want to submit their scores, providing more flexibility in the application process.

Test-Blind Policies

Other institutions, such as the University of California system, have implemented test-blind policies, where even submitted scores are not considered in the admission process. This approach aims to level the playing field for students who may not excel in standardized testing environments.

The University of California system is a prime example, as it explicitly states that test scores are not part of the decision-making process, regardless of whether they are submitted or not.

General Advice for Retaking Tests

While retaking the test can often lead to improved scores, taking the SAT or ACT more than three times may not yield significant gains. Admissions officers may view taking the test multiple times beyond this limit unfavorably. Some institutions prioritize the most recent score in their review process, further diminishing the value of additional test attempts.

College-Specific Considerations

It's essential to check the specific requirements and preferences of each college you are applying to. Not all institutions weigh test scores equally, and some may have unique policies regarding test retakes. Researching the test policies of your preferred colleges can help you make informed decisions about your test-taking strategy.

For example, the test-optional policies vary widely, with some schools requiring scores for certain programs or majors. Therefore, understanding the policies of your target schools can significantly impact your strategy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the number of times a student takes the SAT or ACT is a factor in college admissions, its weight varies depending on the institution. Understanding the test-optional and test-blind policies, as well as the general advice for retaking tests, can help you optimize your strategy and present your best self to the admissions committee.

College Admissions Software can also provide valuable insights and tools to help you navigate the application process more effectively.