Most colleges allow you to choose which SAT scores to send (called Score Choice), but some schools require you to submit scores from all test dates. If you're planning to take the SAT multiple times, knowing which schools require all scores helps you plan your test preparation strategy.
When a college requires all scores, you must submit SAT results from every time you took the test. You cannot use College Board's Score Choice feature to send only your best scores. Schools that require all scores want to see your complete testing history.
Most other Ivy League schools (Harvard, Princeton, Columbia, Penn, Brown, Dartmouth, Cornell) allow Score Choice and do not require all scores.
Some schools require all scores but superscore them, taking your highest section scores across all test dates:
The vast majority of colleges allow you to send only your best SAT scores:
Schools want to see your testing history to understand:
Schools that require all scores often superscore, so your highest section scores still count most.
Yes. Even if schools require all scores, taking the SAT 2-3 times often improves your results. Schools understand that students improve with practice and preparation.
Most admissions officers focus on your highest scores, not your lowest attempts. If you're working with test prep support, multiple test attempts give you chances to improve specific sections.
Test Strategically. If you're applying to schools that require all scores, plan your test dates carefully. Take practice tests before official attempts to ensure you're ready.
Don't Skip Tests. Some students worry about taking the SAT if they might not do well. But schools that require all scores expect to see growth. One lower score won't hurt you if you improve later.
Consider Your Timeline. Space out your SAT attempts by at least 2-3 months to allow time for meaningful preparation and improvement.
Submit All Scores Anyway. Even if a school allows Score Choice, submitting all scores can show positive growth trends that strengthen your application.
College testing policies change regularly. Always verify current score submission requirements on each school's admissions website. What was true last year may not apply to your application cycle.
When you register for the SAT, you can select up to four colleges to receive your scores for free. After test day, you can send scores to additional colleges for a fee ($14 per college as of 2025).
If a college requires all scores, you select "Send All Scores" when ordering score reports. If they allow Score Choice, you can pick which test dates to send.
Some schools are test-optional but still require all scores if you choose to submit. For example, a school might say "testing is optional, but if you submit SAT scores, send all attempts." Check each school's specific policy.
First Test as Baseline. If schools will see all attempts anyway, use your first SAT as a baseline. You can only improve from there.
Focus on Growth. Schools value upward trends. Even if your first score is low, strong improvement shows dedication and work ethic.
Don't Stress About One Bad Day. Everyone has off days. Schools that require all scores understand this. Focus on your best performance across attempts.
Schools that require all scores and superscore (like Stanford and Yale) take your highest Math score and highest Reading/Writing score across all test dates. One weak section on one test date won't define your application if you improve it later.
If you're very concerned about having all SAT scores sent, consider the ACT. More schools allow ACT score choice compared to SAT score choice. However, check each specific school's policies for both tests.
Whether you're taking the SAT once or multiple times, preparing effectively makes all the difference. At LifeWorks, our test preparation services help students develop the reasoning and information processing skills that lead to strong scores. We also provide academic support to keep your grades strong throughout the testing process. Get in touch to learn how we can help you achieve your testing goals.
Can I hide SAT scores from colleges?
No. If a college requires all scores, you must send results from every SAT test date. The College Board reports which test dates you've taken, so colleges can see if you've withheld scores.
What happens if I don't send all scores to a school that requires them?
Your application may be considered incomplete. Some schools may withdraw admission offers if they discover you didn't submit all required test scores.
Do colleges see my PSAT scores?
No. PSAT scores are never sent to colleges. Only official SAT scores from actual test dates are reported.
How many times should I take the SAT if schools require all scores?
Most students take the SAT 2-3 times. Taking it more than 3-4 times rarely leads to significant improvement and may signal inefficient preparation strategies.
Will one bad SAT score ruin my chances?
No. Admissions officers understand that students have off days and improve with practice. Schools focus most on your highest scores, especially if they superscore.
Can I delete old SAT scores?
No. Once you take an official SAT, that score remains in your College Board account permanently. You cannot delete or hide scores from your testing history.
