Should I bother taking the SAT again - only to improve my essay?

Question

I'm happy with my May SAT scores, except for my essay (CR 710, Math 670, Writing 690 with essay score of 7... to be honest, I had no idea what to write my essay on [hated the prompt]; I'm not suprised at my score.). I really don't want to take the test again, but I need all the scholarships I can get, no matter what college I attend.

Will my essay score improve that much if I take the SAT again in October? (However, I think would like to start sending out college applications by that time - the guidance counselor at my school told us we should have sent out all our applications by the end of November.)

Thanks in advance. =)

Answer 1

There is always room for improvement, but don't overstress or work yourself. Give yourself a break, some time to relax, and take a moment for yourself amidst your studying. These scores are important, especially when you are serious with your education and trying to get in to a specific school, or just overall improve your resume, or grade status. Education is definitely the way to go, so trying to improve your scores for the SAT is  a great way to start!

Answer 2

I happen to grade essays for scholarship applications (not for the SAT). As part of the process, I look at SAT scores, ACT scores and school transcripts.

I notice that many students take the SAT a few times, and that about 50% do a little better or about the same and 50% do worse.  So, think carefully.

You might be better off thinking of how you will answer the essays on your scholarship applications.