Okay, so I’m planning out my college application timeline and I’m trying to figure out when I need to start studying for the SAT and ACT. I know I want to take them both at least once, maybe even twice if I don’t get the scores I want the first time. I’m a rising junior, so I’m really trying to get a handle on the testing schedule now so I don’t scramble later.
I’m particularly interested in understanding if they are offered every month, or only during certain times of the year. Also, are the testing dates the same across the country, or do they vary by state or region? Are there some months that are better to take them than others, maybe based on when I’ll have less school work or extracurricular commitments? Finally, and maybe this is a dumb question, but does it change year to year? Like, will the dates be the same next year as this year?
Answer
The SAT and ACT are administered multiple times per year, though the specific number of administrations and their timing can vary slightly from year to year.
SAT:
The SAT is typically administered seven times per year in the United States. These administrations usually occur in:
- August
- October
- November
- December
- March
- May
- June
ACT:
The ACT is typically administered seven times per year in the United States. These administrations usually occur in:
- February
- April
- June
- July
- September
- October
- December
Important Considerations:
- International Testing: The SAT and ACT are also administered internationally, but the dates and the number of administrations may differ from the schedule in the United States. It’s important to check the specific testing schedules for your country or region on the College Board (SAT) and ACT websites.
- Sunday Testing: Both the SAT and ACT offer Sunday testing dates for students who observe the Sabbath on Saturday. These dates are usually the day after the Saturday test date.
- Changes to Schedules: It is important to check the official websites of the College Board (for the SAT) and ACT, Inc. (for the ACT) for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding test dates. Testing schedules can be subject to change.
- Registration Deadlines: Students need to register for these tests well in advance of the test date. There are deadlines for registration, and late registration options might be available for a fee, subject to availability. It’s crucial to check the deadlines on the respective websites and plan accordingly.
- Test Availability: In certain circumstances, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, there may have been cancellations or limitations on test administrations. It’s always a good idea to confirm the test is being administered at your chosen test center.
- Score Choice: Both the SAT and ACT allow students to choose which scores they send to colleges.
- Superscoring: Many colleges use superscoring, which means that they will consider the highest section scores across multiple test dates, rather than just the score from a single test administration.
- Accommodations: Students with disabilities may be eligible for accommodations on the SAT and ACT. Requests for accommodations must be submitted to the College Board or ACT, Inc. with proper documentation, and approval can take some time, so it’s important to apply well in advance of the test date.
- Fee Waivers: Fee waivers are available for eligible students who demonstrate financial need, covering the cost of registration.
To get the precise testing dates and registration deadlines, students should always refer to the official websites:
