1590 SAT Score: Is It Worth Retaking the Test?

Hi, I just got my SAT results and I scored 1590 which I'm really happy about. However, I'm wondering, since I'm so close, should I take it again to try for that elusive 1600? Will a perfect score make a significant difference when it comes to applying to highly competitive colleges or can I just chill now?

Considering that your score is already in the 99th percentile range and the fact that a score of 1590 is already impressive by any standard, it's safe to say that you can breathe easy. You've done an excellent job! As differentiating as a perfect SAT score may seem, a 1590 is already within the highest standard, and the difference between that and a 1600, in essence, would likely be negligible in the eyes of college admissions committees.

Remember, colleges look at the holistic profile of a candidate. Other areas of your application portfolio—GPA, the rigor of your coursework, letters of recommendation, essays, and extracurriculars—are also significant components. While a perfect score might make you feel tremendously satisfied, in the grand scheme of your application, moving from a 1590 to a 1600 is unlikely to be a game-changer.

It's also worthy to note that some highly selective colleges don't actually consider demonstrated interest in admissions, so spending your time visiting the school or participating in online admissions events may indirectly, rather than directly, benefit your application. What you could do instead is allocate any extra time on bolstering other areas of your application that might require further development such as your personal essay or resume.

For instance, you could draft and refine your personal statements, ensuring they are authentic and meaningfully detailed. Or invest the time to have an even greater impact in your current extracurricular activities—remember, admissions officers want to see depth and long-term commitment, which can sometimes be more captivating than a perfect score.