Should I retake the SAT/ACT if my score is in the mid-range for my dream school?

Hi everyone! I'm a junior who recently took the SAT and got a score that's in the mid-range for my top choice college. I'm wondering if I should retake it to try for a higher score or focus on other aspects of my application. What do you guys think? Has Collegevine given any guidance on this? Thanks!

Hi there! It's great to hear that your SAT score is in the mid-range for your dream school. As you consider whether to retake the exam, there are a few factors you should weigh. First, think about how much time and energy you would need to invest in preparation for the test, and whether that effort would likely result in a significant score improvement. If you believe you can put in the work and boost your score, it might be worth attempting. However, if you think those resources could be better spent elsewhere (e.g., improving your grades, participating in extracurricular activities, or writing strong application essays), then focusing on those aspects might be a better choice. To my knowledge, Collegevine doesn't have a specific guideline on this matter, but it's generally advisable to weigh the pros and cons based on your unique situation. Remember, colleges consider a variety of factors in their admissions process, not just test scores. Ultimately, you should do what feels right for you and will best showcase your strengths as a potential student. Good luck!