Does it look bad if you take the SAT or ACT multiple times?

No, it does not look bad to take the SAT or ACT multiple times. In fact, it's quite common. Colleges understand that students can improve their scores with additional preparation and practice. They'll generally look at your highest score, not your average or all your attempts.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

* Consistent improvement shows dedication: Showing a steady increase in scores demonstrates your commitment to improving and your ability to learn from your mistakes. A wildly erratic score history might raise a slight eyebrow, but consistent progress is positive.

* Too many attempts without improvement might raise a question: If you take the test many times without significant score improvements, it might lead admissions officers to wonder about your study habits or test-taking strategies. This isn't necessarily negative, but it's something to be aware of. Consider getting tutoring or using different prep materials if you're not seeing progress.

* Focus on your overall application: Your test scores are just one piece of your college application. Strong grades, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation can outweigh a slightly lower-than-ideal test score.

In short, retake the tests if you feel you can improve your score. Don't let the fear of multiple attempts stop you from aiming for your best. Just ensure you're strategically improving your study habits to show consistent progress.