Is 990 on SAT too low?

So, I just received my SAT score and it's a 990. I'm not quite sure how to feel or what this means for my college chances. Would it be a good idea to retake?

Yes, retaking the SAT would likely be a good idea if your goal is to increase your chances of getting admitted to more selective colleges. A score of 990 falls below the national average (around 1050) for the newly-formatted SAT. So, depending on the universities you're interested in applying to, you may want to strive for a higher score as part of your overall application.

However, keep in mind that test scores are just one part of your application. Your extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, essays, and high school GPA are all important pieces of your application that colleges consider in the admissions process.

As you prepare for a retake, here are a few tips:

1. Start preparing early: This will give you more time to understand the material and reduce stress near exam time.

2. Identify your weak areas: Working on these areas will give you the most improvement.

3. Take practice exams: Practice tests can help familiarize yourself with the test format and help you work on timing. The Bluebook™ app, for instance, allows you to take a full-length practice SAT test.

4. Consider using SAT prep resources: While CollegeVine does not offer SAT prep courses, many other resources are out there to help you reach your goal. Take a look at resources like Khan Academy’s SAT prep course, which is free.

Remember to balance your test prep with your other responsibilities and extracurricular activities. After all, colleges are looking for well-rounded students who have shown commitment and leadership beyond the classroom.