When should I register for the SAT?

Register approximately 4-6 weeks before your test date to ensure seat availability and avoid late fees. Regular registration deadlines close about 4 weeks before the test, with late registration available for about one week after at an additional cost. International students should register even earlier as test centers fill up faster.

How much does the SAT cost?

The SAT registration fee is $60 for US students and $101.50 for international students. Late registration adds $30, and changing your test date or center costs $30. Fee waivers covering the full cost are available for eligible low-income US students.

What is the format of the digital SAT?

The digital SAT is 2 hours and 14 minutes long with two sections: Reading and Writing (64 minutes, 54 questions) and Math (70 minutes, 44 questions). The test is adaptive, meaning the difficulty of the second module in each section adjusts based on your performance in the first module. Scores range from 400-1600.

When should I take the SAT for college applications?

Most students take the SAT for the first time in spring of junior year (March or May) and again in fall of senior year (August, October, or November). This timing allows you to receive scores before early application deadlines and provides opportunities for retesting if needed.

Can international students take the SAT?

Yes, international students can take the SAT at designated test centers worldwide. International test dates align with US dates but may have fewer administrations in some countries. Registration fees for international students are higher at $101.50, and students should register early as international seats are more limited.

How long should I study for the SAT?

Most students benefit from 3-6 months of SAT preparation. Students with higher baseline skills or less aggressive score goals may prepare for 2-3 months, while students seeking significant score improvements should plan for 4-6 months of consistent study with regular practice tests.

Can I use a calculator on the SAT?

Yes, calculators are allowed throughout the entire Math section of the digital SAT. The testing platform includes a built-in Desmos graphing calculator, but you can also bring your own approved calculator. This is different from the old paper SAT which had a no-calculator section.

SAT Test Dates 2026: Complete Schedule & Registration Guide

Everything You Need to Know About SAT Dates, Registration, Locations & Test Preparation

Planning to take the SAT in 2026? This comprehensive guide provides all upcoming SAT test dates for US and international students, registration deadlines, test center locations, and proven preparation strategies to help you achieve your target score and gain admission to your dream college.

What is the SAT?

The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized college admissions test administered by the College Board and used by colleges and universities across the United States and internationally to assess applicants' readiness for college-level work. The digital SAT, introduced in 2024, provides a common measure that allows admissions officers to compare applicants from different high schools, states, and countries on equal footing.

The test evaluates critical reading, writing, and mathematical skills that students develop throughout their high school education. Unlike achievement tests that measure knowledge of specific subjects, the SAT assesses analytical and problem-solving abilities essential for college success. Most competitive colleges and universities require SAT scores as part of the application process, though some institutions have adopted test-optional policies in recent years.

Complete SAT Test Dates Schedule 2026-2027

The College Board offers multiple SAT test dates throughout the year, providing flexibility for students to choose dates that align with their preparation timeline and college application deadlines. The SAT is administered on Saturday mornings, with Sunday options available for students with religious observances or other qualifying circumstances.

Spring 2026 SAT Test Dates

Test Date	Registration Deadline	Late Registration	Recommended For
March 14, 2026	February 27, 2026	March 3, 2026	Juniors (first attempt)
May 2, 2026	April 17, 2026	April 21, 2026	Juniors (retake)
June 6, 2026	May 22, 2026	May 26, 2026	Juniors (final spring attempt)

Fall 2026 SAT Test Dates

Test Date	Registration Deadline*	Late Registration*	Recommended For
August 15, 2026	July 31, 2026	August 4, 2026	Rising seniors (early apps)
September 12, 2026	August 28, 2026	September 1, 2026	Seniors (early decision)
October 3, 2026	September 18, 2026	September 22, 2026	Seniors (most popular date)
November 7, 2026	October 23, 2026	October 27, 2026	Seniors (last chance for early)
December 5, 2026	November 20, 2026	November 24, 2026	Seniors (regular decision)

Spring 2027 SAT Test Dates

Test Date	Registration Deadline*	Late Registration*	Recommended For
March 13, 2027	February 26, 2027	March 2, 2027	Juniors (first attempt)
May 1, 2027	April 16, 2027	April 21, 2027	Juniors (retake)
June 5, 2027	May 21, 2027	May 25, 2027	Juniors (final spring attempt)

Important Note: *Fall 2026 and Spring 2027 registration and late deadlines are anticipated based on typical patterns. Always verify current information at collegeboard.org before finalizing your registration and preparation plans. All deadlines expire at 11:59 PM ET.

SAT International Test Dates 2026

International students can take the SAT at designated test centers worldwide. The international SAT schedule typically aligns with US test dates, though some regions may have limited availability for certain administrations. International test centers often fill up faster than US locations, making early registration even more critical for students testing outside the United States.

International Test Dates Available

✓ March 14, 2026: Available worldwide with standard registration
✓ May 2, 2026: Global administration at international test centers
✓ June 6, 2026: Available internationally (popular for end of school year)
✓ August 15, 2026: Limited international availability (check your region)
✓ October 3, 2026: Worldwide availability (most popular international date)
✓ December 5, 2026: Global administration before holiday break
✓ Sunday Alternatives: Available for religious observances (typically day after Saturday)

Registration Fees

International Fee: $101.50

Late Registration: +$30

Test Date Change: $30

Test Center Change: $30

Regional Considerations

Test center availability varies by country and region. Major cities typically have multiple centers, while rural areas may require travel.

Some countries may have additional restrictions or requirements. Check College Board's international testing policies for your specific location.

International Testing Tip: Register at least 6-8 weeks before your test date to ensure seat availability at your preferred location. Popular test centers in major cities fill up quickly, especially for October and December dates. Consider backup test center options when registering.

How to Register for the SAT

Registering for the SAT is a straightforward online process that takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a smooth registration experience and avoid common mistakes that could complicate your test day.

Create Account

Visit collegeboard.org and create your free College Board account. You'll need this account for all College Board services including AP exams and college applications.

Choose Test Date

Select your preferred SAT test date from available options. Consider your preparation timeline, college application deadlines, and school schedule.

Select Test Center

Search for test centers near you by zip code or city. Check availability and choose your preferred location. You can list up to 5 preferences in order.

Upload Photo

Submit a recent passport-style photo that meets College Board requirements. This photo is used for identification on test day and must match your appearance.

Complete Form

Fill out your registration form with accurate personal and academic information. Double-check all details to avoid issues on test day.

Pay & Confirm

Complete payment and submit your registration. Print your admission ticket once it's available (approximately 5 days before test day).

Registration Requirements Checklist

Valid email address for account creation and test updates
Recent passport-style photo (clear headshot, plain background)
High school information (name, CEEB code, graduation year)
Valid credit/debit card or fee waiver approval for payment
List of up to 5 preferred test center locations

SAT Fee Waivers

Eligible US students can receive SAT fee waivers that cover the full registration cost. To qualify, you must meet one of these criteria:

Currently enrolled in or eligible for the Federal Free or Reduced Price Lunch program
Family receives public assistance
Live in federally subsidized public housing, a foster home, or are homeless
Enrolled in a federal, state, or local program that aids students from low-income families

Digital SAT Format and Structure

The digital SAT, launched in 2024, represents a significant modernization of the traditional paper test. Taken on computers or tablets at test centers, the new format is shorter, more flexible, and features adaptive testing technology that adjusts question difficulty based on your performance. Understanding the test structure is essential for developing an effective preparation strategy.

Digital SAT Quick Facts

Total Time

2h 14min

Total Questions

Score Range

400-1600

Sections

Reading and Writing

Time: 64 minutes (2 modules × 32 min)

Questions: 54 total (27 per module)

Score: 200-800 points

Tests reading comprehension, vocabulary in context, grammar, and rhetoric through short passages and questions covering literature, history, social studies, and science.

Math

Time: 70 minutes (2 modules × 35 min)

Questions: 44 total (22 per module)

Score: 200-800 points

Covers algebra, advanced math, problem-solving, data analysis, geometry, and trigonometry. Calculator allowed throughout entire section including built-in Desmos calculator.

Adaptive Testing Explained

The digital SAT uses multistage adaptive testing (MST), which means the difficulty of your second module in each section depends on your performance in the first module. This adaptive approach allows for more precise scoring with fewer questions.

Module 1: Mix of easy, medium, and hard questions (establishes baseline)
Module 2 (if you do well): Harder questions with higher point values
Module 2 (if you struggle): Easier questions with lower point values
Key insight: Getting harder questions in Module 2 is a good sign—it means you're on track for a higher score!

The SAT is scored on a scale from 400 to 1600, with 200-800 points possible in each section. Your raw score (correct answers) is converted to a scaled score using an equating process that accounts for test difficulty. Use our SAT Score Calculator to understand how your performance translates to a final score and see how you compare to other test-takers nationwide.

Choosing the Best SAT Test Date

Selecting the optimal SAT test date is a strategic decision that impacts your college admissions success. Your choice should balance adequate preparation time, college application deadlines, school commitments, and the possibility of retaking the exam if necessary. Most students take the SAT 2-3 times, with scores typically improving on each attempt.

Strategic Test Date Selection by Grade

Juniors (Class of 2027):

First attempt: March or May 2026 (after sufficient preparation). Second attempt: June 2026 if needed. This timing allows fall senior year for final attempts if necessary while leaving spring free for other standardized tests like AP exams.

Rising Seniors (Class of 2026):

Critical date: August or October 2026 for early decision/action applications. Final opportunity: November for early applications or December for regular decision. Scores from December tests typically arrive too late for most early deadlines.

Sophomores (Getting Started):

Consider taking the PSAT first for practice (use our PSAT Score Calculator), then take your first SAT in spring of sophomore year (May or June) for baseline scoring and early preparation advantage.

Best Test Dates

March: Great for juniors, allows spring retakes
May: After AP prep, good junior date
August: Early senior advantage
October: Most popular senior date

Dates to Avoid If Possible

June: End of school year, mental fatigue
December: Holiday stress, winter break
November: College app crunch for seniors

Strategic Tip: Give yourself at least 3-6 months between your first and last possible test attempts. This buffer allows time to identify weaknesses, implement improvements, and retest if necessary. Starting early in junior year gives you the most flexibility and reduces senior year stress.

SAT Preparation Timeline and Study Strategies

Effective SAT preparation requires a structured, consistent approach that builds foundational skills before advancing to practice tests and test-taking strategies. The amount of time you need depends on your starting score, target score, and how much time you can dedicate to studying each week. Research shows that focused, quality practice is more effective than simply logging hours.

3-Month Intensive Study Plan

Best for: Students with strong baseline scores targeting 100-200 point improvements, studying 10-15 hours per week

Month 1 (Weeks 1-4): Take a diagnostic practice test to establish your baseline. Study fundamental concepts in reading, writing, and math. Focus on understanding question types and common patterns. Complete untimed practice sections emphasizing accuracy over speed.
Month 2 (Weeks 5-8): Begin timed section practice. Maintain an error log tracking every mistake with the question type and concept tested. Drill your weak areas with targeted practice. Take one full-length practice test at the end of each week to monitor progress.
Month 3 (Weeks 9-12): Take 2-3 full-length practice tests per week under realistic test conditions. Review every mistake thoroughly. Practice test-day routines including timing strategies, break management, and stress reduction techniques.

6-Month Comprehensive Study Plan

Best for: Students seeking significant score improvements (200+ points) or studying 8-12 hours per week with flexible schedules

Months 1-2 (Foundation): Take initial diagnostic test. Deep dive into content review covering all math concepts, grammar rules, and reading strategies. Build vocabulary through context-based learning. Complete untimed practice focusing on understanding over speed.
Months 3-4 (Skill Building): Introduce timed practice gradually. Master specific question types through categorized drills. Develop personalized strategies for each section. Take one full practice test every two weeks to measure improvement and identify persistent weaknesses.
Months 5-6 (Test Readiness): Increase to 1-2 full practice tests per week. Simulate exact test conditions including timing, breaks, and environment. Focus on maintaining consistency and stamina. Fine-tune pacing strategies and develop a test-day routine you'll execute on actual test day.

Essential Study Strategies That Work

Official Practice Tests

Use College Board's official digital SAT practice tests exclusively. Third-party tests may not accurately reflect the adaptive testing format and actual difficulty level.

Error Analysis

Review every single mistake you make. Categorize errors by type: careless mistakes, timing issues, or conceptual gaps. This reveals patterns requiring targeted practice.

Consistent Schedule

Study regularly throughout the week rather than cramming on weekends. Daily 30-60 minute sessions are more effective than weekly 3-4 hour marathons for retention.

Targeted Weaknesses

Spend 70% of study time on your weakest areas and 30% maintaining strengths. A 50-point improvement in your weaker section is worth more than perfecting a strong one.

Study Efficiency Tip: Quality beats quantity every time. One fully reviewed practice test with thorough error analysis is worth more than three tests taken back-to-back without reflection. Focus on understanding why correct answers work and why wrong answers don't, rather than simply drilling more questions mechanically.

Understanding SAT Scores and Percentiles

SAT scores range from 400 to 1600, calculated by adding your Reading and Writing score (200-800) to your Math score (200-800). Understanding what constitutes a "good" score depends on your college goals, with different schools having different average accepted student scores. Percentiles show how you compare to other test-takers nationwide.

Score Range	Percentile	Performance Level	Typical College Access
1400-1600	94th-99th+	Excellent	Ivy League, Top 20 schools
1300-1390	87th-93rd	Very Good	Top 50 universities
1200-1290	74th-86th	Good	Strong state universities
1000-1190	40th-73rd	Average	Most colleges, state schools
Below 1000	Below 40th	Below Average	Community colleges, open admission

Score Benchmarks by State

Average SAT scores vary significantly by state due to differences in participation rates, curriculum, and demographics. Understanding your state's average helps contextualize your performance relative to local peers.

View Average SAT Scores by State →

Use our comprehensive SAT Score Calculator to convert raw scores to scaled scores, understand your percentile ranking, and see how your performance compares to admission requirements at specific colleges. This tool helps you set realistic target scores and track your improvement throughout your preparation journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About SAT 2026

For Spring 2026, the SAT test dates are March 14, May 2, and June 6. For Fall 2026, the dates are August 15, September 12, October 3, November 7, and December 5. The SAT is administered on Saturday mornings with Sunday alternatives available for students with religious observances. International students have access to most of these dates at designated test centers worldwide.

Register approximately 4-6 weeks before your test date to ensure seat availability and avoid late fees. Regular registration deadlines close about 4 weeks before the test date. Late registration is available for about one additional week at a $30 surcharge. International students and those in competitive testing areas should register even earlier as test centers fill up faster. Early registration also helps you commit to a preparation timeline.

The SAT registration fee is $60 for US students and $101.50 for international students. Late registration adds $30 to the base fee. Changing your test date or test center after registration costs $30. SAT fee waivers covering the full registration cost are available for eligible low-income US students who meet specific criteria including participation in federal lunch programs or receiving public assistance. Check with your school counselor about fee waiver eligibility.

The digital SAT is 2 hours and 14 minutes long with two main sections: Reading and Writing (64 minutes, 54 questions in two adaptive modules) and Math (70 minutes, 44 questions in two adaptive modules). The test is computer-adaptive, meaning the difficulty of your second module in each section adjusts based on your performance in the first module. Scores range from 400-1600, with 200-800 points possible in each section. A built-in Desmos calculator is available throughout the entire Math section.

Most students take the SAT for the first time in spring of junior year (March or May) and again in fall of senior year (August, October, or November) if needed. For early decision or early action applications with November deadlines, aim to take the SAT by October at the latest. For regular decision applications with January deadlines, December is typically your last opportunity. Taking the test early in junior year gives you maximum flexibility for retakes and allows you to focus on other aspects of college applications during senior year.

Yes, international students can take the SAT at designated test centers in over 170 countries worldwide. International test dates typically align with US administrations, though some regions may have limited availability for certain dates. The registration fee for international students is $101.50, higher than the US fee of $60. International test centers often fill up faster than US locations, so early registration (6-8 weeks before the test date) is strongly recommended. Check the College Board website for test center locations in your country and specific registration requirements.

Most students benefit from 3-6 months of consistent SAT preparation. Students with higher baseline scores or more modest improvement goals (50-100 points) may prepare effectively in 2-3 months studying 10-15 hours per week. Students seeking significant score improvements (200+ points) should plan for 4-6 months of study at 8-12 hours per week. The key is consistent, focused practice rather than total hours. Quality study with thorough error analysis beats quantity every time. Start with a diagnostic test to gauge your current level and set realistic timelines.

Yes, calculators are allowed throughout the entire Math section of the digital SAT. The testing platform includes a built-in Desmos graphing calculator that you can access at any time during the Math section. You can also bring your own approved calculator if you prefer, though you must follow College Board's calculator policy regarding acceptable models. This represents a significant change from the old paper SAT, which included a no-calculator section. However, many questions are designed to be solved efficiently without a calculator, so don't rely on it for every problem.

Essential SAT Resources and Tools

Maximize your SAT preparation with comprehensive tools and resources designed to help you achieve your target score. Our suite of SAT tools provides instant feedback on your performance and helps you understand where you stand relative to your college goals.

SAT Score Calculator

Convert raw scores to scaled scores and understand your percentile ranking.

Calculate Score →

PSAT Score Calculator

Predict your SAT performance based on PSAT scores and track your progress.

Calculate PSAT →

State Averages

Compare your score to state and national averages across all 50 states.

View Averages →