Can you retake the SAT during a gap year?

I'm thinking about taking a gap year after high school. Is it possible to retake the SAT during this time to try and improve my score? If you've done this, any tips or insights would be appreciated!

Absolutely! You can take the SAT at any time, as long as you register in advance for a scheduled exam date. The College Board, which administers the SAT, has no age restriction or requirement to be currently enrolled in high school.

Taking the SAT during your gap year could be a wise decision if you believe you can improve your score. If the colleges you're applying to still require or accept SAT scores, an improved score could strengthen your application. However, remember to check the testing policies of the colleges you're interested in - some have gone test-optional, and others are test-blind for the 2024-2025 application cycle, including all the Cal State and UC schools.

Additionally, remember that while the SAT has transitioned to a digital format, it's still administered at authorized test centers - you can't take it from home. The structure is now two 32-minute modules for Reading and Writing, and two 35-minute modules for Math, with no differentiation between sections where calculators are allowed or not. You can prepare using resources like the Bluebook app, which allows you to take full-length practice tests for the new digital SAT.

Finally, it's crucial to balance your SAT preparation with other enriching experiences during your gap year. Many colleges will want to see that you used this time for personal growth, continued learning, work experience, or community service, and not solely for test preparation.