The SAT tests your knowledge of material that colleges and universities consider to be a good measure of your understanding of critical concepts in Math, Reading and Writing. The SAT Math section tests arithmetic, algebra, geometry, probability and statistics. The SAT Reading section requires that students read passages and complete sentences, while the writing section tests grammar and a short essay. While you may likely be more proficient in one section, you should practice each section to get the highest score possible.
The SAT is scored on a scale of 2400, with each section being worth 800 points. The national average score for the SAT is 1500. While a 1500 will give you access to some schools, other schools may prefer to admit students with higher SAT scores.
However, your SAT scores is not the only determinant of your chances at college admission. A student with a high grade point average and average SAT scores may be held in the same regard as a student with a high SAT score and low GPA. The difficulty of your classes, life circumstances and extracurricular activities may also play a role in your chances at college admissions.
You can retake the SAT up until December or January of your senior year. Some schools may average your SAT scores, while others will simply take the highest score. Retaking the SAT is your best option if you know that you are ready to enter college upon graduation. To improve your score, enroll in an SAT prep course, which will teach you skills and give your practice needed for the SAT. One benefit of the retaking the SAT is that you will already by familiar with the exam and will have a better idea of what to expect. Take advantage of this by taking multiple practice tests under timed conditions to further improve your score.
One option that students explore if they do not perform well on the SAT is enrolling in community college. Some four-year universities do not require SAT or ACT scores once students have completed two years at a community college. However, presenting these scores will make an applicant more competitive in the admissions process, even if they are not required. Students who enroll in community college will need to take the courses needed to transfer to the the university of their choice. These are usually general education courses and prerequisites for your major. Check with both your community college counselor and an admissions counselor at the schools where you want to apply to to determine the courses you will need to take.