What is the best time to retake the SAT or ACT?

Think of retaking the SAT or ACT like baking cookies: timing is everything. Too early, and you’re underbaked. Too late, and you’ve missed the deadline party. Most students retake in the summer before senior year or early fall—prime prep time and still early enough for Early Decision or Regular Decision apps. If your first score made you wince, and you know you can level up with better prep, a second try is usually worth it. Just don’t wing it. Plan ahead, register early (especially for hot dates like August or October), and leave enough time for those sweet, sweet score reports to reach colleges. Retakes aren’t just for redemption—they’re strategic moves.