Can You Retake the SAT? Everything You Need To Know!

Seeing your SAT score for the first time often leads to one big question: Can you retake the SAT? The short answer is yes. The more important question is whether retaking it is the right move for your college plans.

Even as more schools adopt test-optional policies, SAT scores still play a meaningful role in admissions, scholarships, and academic placement. A higher score can strengthen your application, especially when paired with proven SAT prep strategies that focus on your weakest areas instead of generic review.

This guide explains how SAT retakes work, how many times you can take the test, what it costs, and how to decide if another attempt makes sense.

Can You Retake the SAT? 

Yes, you can retake the SAT. The exam is administered by the College Board, and students are allowed to take it multiple times across different test dates.

Many students choose to retake the exam after gaining familiarity with the digital SAT format, which often helps reduce stress and improve pacing on test day.

How Many Times Can You Retake the SAT?

There is no official limit on how many times you can retake the SAT. You may register for any available test date as long as registration is open.

The College Board recommends students take the SAT at least twice, and most students end up taking it two or three times. After that, score improvements often become smaller, and additional retakes may not significantly strengthen an application. Planning around college application deadlines is critical, especially for early action or early decision timelines.

How often is the SAT offered each year?

The SAT is offered multiple times throughout the year. This gives students time to review scores, adjust their study plan, and retest if needed. Always factor in score release timelines so results arrive before college deadlines.

Can You Send Section Scores From Different Test Dates?

You cannot send individual section scores by themselves. Each score report reflects one full SAT test date.

However, many colleges use superscoring, which allows them to consider your best section scores across multiple test dates. Make sure to check your target college and universities’ policies superscoring, as some universities require you to submit all your SAT scores. The College Board allows you to send your highest SAT score, which makes SAT retakes more appealing. 

What is SAT superscoring?

SAT superscoring means colleges combine your highest Math score from one test date with your highest Reading and Writing score from another when reviewing your application.

How Much Does It Cost to Retake the SAT?

Each SAT registration includes a testing fee, and costs can add up with multiple attempts. Families should also consider the cost of prep materials or tutoring.

Are SAT fee waivers available for retakes?

Yes. Students who qualify for SAT fee waivers may receive up to two free SAT test registrations and free score reports to colleges, helping reduce financial barriers.

Pros and Cons of Retaking the SAT

Retaking the SAT will require additional time, effort, energy, and resources from you. This is why you need to weigh the pros and cons of retaking the exam. Ensure that you give yourself enough time to reflect on the advantages and disadvantages before scheduling the next exam.

Benefits of retaking the SAT

A higher SAT score can strengthen college applications and improve eligibility for merit-based scholarships. An upward score trend also shows persistence and academic growth.

Downsides of retaking the SAT

Preparing for another SAT extends your study timeline and may increase stress. Some students reach a score plateau, where additional retakes offer little improvement.

How to Decide If You Should Retake the SAT

A retake often makes sense if your score is below the average range for your target colleges, you know which sections need improvement, and you have enough time to prepare effectively.

If your score already aligns with your college list and practice scores are no longer improving, focusing on applications and coursework may be a better use of time.

How to Maximize Your Next SAT Attempt

Improvement usually comes from changing how you prepare, not just taking the test again.

Build a targeted SAT study plan

Use your score report to identify weak areas and focus your prep where it will have the greatest impact.

Use high-quality SAT prep resources

Official practice tests and adaptive tools help reinforce skills and track progress. Some students use AI-powered platforms like Acely to personalize practice.

Get support from peers and experts

Study groups, counselors, tutors, and mentors provide accountability and guidance throughout SAT prep.

Final Thoughts on SAT Retakes

You can retake the SAT, but the decision should be intentional. With clear goals, focused preparation, and an understanding of college score policies, a retake can meaningfully strengthen your application.