sat essay 2023

More changes to the overall SAT test are gathered and turned into the infographic by Student Tutor. Check here for details.

Or, let’s turn to SAT essay examples!

That’s what an SAT essay task looked back in 2016:

As you see, it’s focused on a more theoretical response. Graders didn’t estimate any analytical skills.

And that’s the example of a new SAT essay task:

It requires a more argumentative and analytical approach from students. Graders can see your critical thinking skills, not just your personal opinion on a given theoretical prompt.

Both examples are taken from Allen Cheng’s article at PrepScholar. He shared the complete guide to the SAT new rules and its most meaningful changes for students.

How to Write SAT Essay?

Below, you’ll find SAT essay tips that can help to improve your scores. But now let’s turn to an essay structure and your step by step tutorial on how to write SAT essays.

Lucky you are, the SAT essay structure is similar to any standard academic paper teachers asked you to write in class. Known as a 5-paragraph essay , its basic parts are:

• Introduction: 2-3 sentences with a hook and a thesis statement.
• Thesis statement: a central argument of your essay, so take your time to craft it.
• Supporting paragraphs (two or three, if time) : each of them should include a topic sentence, evidence, and a concluding sentence to demonstrate how it refers to your thesis statement.
• Conclusion: 3-4 sentences, summarizing your arguments in a concise manner.

Given that you have 50 minutes for writing the SAT essay, make sure to allocate this time like a boss:

• Read the prompt: 1 minute .
• Read the passage, annotating the core info: 15 minutes .
• Outline the essay: 5 minutes .
• Write an essay: 25 minutes .
• Check an essay: 4 minutes .

Don’t hurry up to read the passage: pay attention to the task (prompt) itself, as it will help you understand what information and evidence to concentrate. So, here we have the first step to writing a good SAT essay: read the prompt before the passage .

After that, read the sample passage carefully . Underline the evidence and examples you can use to answer the prompt in your essay. Remember, that your SAT essay will be scored for Reading , so you’ll need to demonstrate that you understand the text’s main points.

To get a high score for Analysis , you’ll need to explain and evaluate the author’s arguments. So, when reading the passage, identify his central claim and instruments he uses to support it (reasoning, evidence, stylistic elements). Focus on the most relevant and persuasive ones.

State your thesis . It should sum up your assessment of the author’s argument. Make it concise and clear, but don’t add any personal attitudes. Remember: you analyze the author’s view rather than share your own. Stay objective when reading the passage and then creating your central claim.

Now it’s time for outlining your essay. Map out it briefly in the introduction, then specify topic sentences and evidence for each paragraph of your essay’s body. Write the draft , with an essay conclusion restating your thesis and summarizing the whole paper.

Check your SAT essay: make sure to use effective language and word choice. Use a variety of sentence structures but stay clear and informative. Your essay gets scores for Writing too, and high scores go to works that are “cohesive and demonstrate highly effective use and command of language.” ( Source )

Source: Giphy

So, avoid low-level vocabulary, correct all spelling and grammar mistakes, and check if you use the right transitional phrases to describe relationships between the arguments in your essay.

SAT Essay Tips

Everyone loves tips, especially if they help to achieve goals and conquer new peaks. And when your goal is a high score for an SAT essay, you need tips more than ever. No wonder:

Who doesn’t want to get a magic bullet to hit the target at one stroke, right?

We asked our team of professional academic writers to give readers their recommendations on essay writing, and here go the essay tips they’ve shared:

What you can do to earn high scores for the SAT essay:

• Understand the scoring system.
• Study essay samples; analyze their structure.
• Practice a lot: take sample prompts and spend 50 minutes on writing essays based on them.
• Learn to analyze texts and see central claims and evidence in them.
• During the SAT, read the prompt before the passage. Always.
• Use accurate facts: support your points with evidence from the passage.
• Be objective: answer the prompt but don’t add any personal opinion or points.
• Take your time to organize the SAT essay, and don’t forget to revise it.
• Make your essay longer than one page: though they say length doesn’t matter, your short response might be not enough for graders to see your writing skills — and you score for the Writing criterion will suffer.
• Follow standard tips for essay writing: use straightforward language, give a clear thesis, structure your essay logically.
• Use a timer when practicing your SAT essay: remember that you’ll have 50 minutes only, so make time for analyzing, planning, writing, and revising it.

Colleges That Require SAT Essay

Your decision to take the optional SAT essay might heavily depend on which college you are going to apply.

So, let’s check what colleges require SAT essays. If yours isn’t in the list, feel free to catch a break: you won’t have to prepare for this writing test and spend money on taking it. However, we would recommend you to double-check with each school at their official websites. (Rules change, you know, and the information tends to go out of date in time.)

We took the most popular colleges among US students only. If your school isn’t on the list, check SAT essay policies of all educational institutes at the official College Board website.

SAT Essay Examples

As mentioned, you need to practice a lot to write the SAT essay worth a high score. That’s true. But what else you can do is pre-plan the examples and evidence you’ll use in the essay! For that, analyze SAT essay examples available online.

Yes, the specifics of your prompt will differ; but they can help choose the types of examples you’ll use to explain the author’s argument.

College Board shares many SAT essay examples with detailed analysis and explanations of why they gave these or those scores to students. They’ll help you understand what to expect from your essay and what writing weaknesses of yours to improve.

This is the SAT essay example that has got 2/1/1 from graders.

(Oops, you better don’t write like that!)

And this work has got 4/4/4 points! See the difference:

(c) College Board

Additional Resources to Check:

• The SAT Student Guide 2022, College Board
• SAT Essay Practice on Khan Academy
• Practice With a Redesigned SAT Essay Prompts
• Best Books to Prepare for SAT
• SAT Essay Prompts: The Complete List

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• Harvard Referencing Style: A Comprehensive Guide
• What Is the Difference between Primary and Secondary Sources
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Our Writing Guides

On January 19th, College Board announced a few significant updates in regards to its SAT Suite of Assessments, including the elimination of the optional essay portion of the SAT and the discontinuance of the SAT Subject Tests (SAT II tests). Let’s take a look at these changes and how they might affect students’ plans for the spring of 2021 and beyond.

In the release, College Board announced that the optional essay will be discontinued from the SAT following the June 2021 test date, with the exception of school day administrations in states which require the essay for evaluative purposes. Students currently registered to take the exam with essay between now and June will have the option to cancel the essay portion via their online account with no change fees up until the test’s registration deadline. In their statement, College Board observed: “This decision recognizes that there are other ways for students to demonstrate their mastery of essay writing. At the same time, writing remains essential to college readiness, and the SAT will continue to measure writing and editing skills.”

Although the vast majority of colleges no longer require (or even recommend, in many cases) students to submit SAT Essay scores, it is somewhat unclear what effect College Board’s announcement will have on the few schools that still utilize the essay portion of the exam in the admission process. Ultimately, the best advice for students and families is likely to check with any colleges they are interested in to see what they recommend, but it seems likely that the SAT essay will not play any role in college admissions for any students in the class of 2022 and beyond.

As a tutor aware of the pressures facing students preparing for the test, I see the announcement as a welcome change. The removal of the optional essay, which was only valued by a small number of schools and did not contribute to students’ overall composite score out of 1600, does offer many benefits to students preparing for the SAT. In addition to reducing the cost of the exam by $15, it shortens the already lengthy test by nearly an hour, which may allow students to devote more energy and focus to the four primary sections (Reading, Writing and Language, No-Calculator Math, and Calculator Math) which contribute to their overall score. Additionally, it allows students to allocate more study time towards other endeavors, whether those be further test prep, academic coursework, extracurricular activities, or even developing a stronger college admissions essay.

College Board Will No Longer Offer SAT Subject Tests

College Board also announced its discontinuation of the SAT Subject Tests, also known as SAT II tests, effective immediately in the U.S. and beginning June 2021 internationally. U.S students registered to take SAT Subject tests in this spring will have their registrations cancelled automatically and their registration fees refunded. Because the SAT Subject Tests are often used for a wider variety of purposes internationally, College Board will offer two final administrations of the exam to international students in May and June of 2021. As to how this might affect the applications of students who already took any SAT Subject Tests, College Board states:

We’ve reached out to our member colleges, and they’ll decide whether and how to consider students’ Subject Test scores. Students should check colleges’ websites for the most up-to-date information on their application policies.

Ultimately, this probably will not have a large role on the college admissions process for most schools . As of the time of the announcement, very few schools recommended students submit SAT Subject Test scores, and while each college is free to decide how to handle scores from previous administrations of the test and what effect this may have on its admission policies, it is rare for a college to alter its admissions policy in a way which penalizes a student for events that are beyond their control. 

College Board attributes its decision to discontinue the tests to the widespread availability of its AP testing, which they consider to render SAT Subject Tests as unnecessary in demonstrating students’ academic knowledge. Both AP exams and SAT Subject Tests are designed as content specific, supplemental exams which allow students to demonstrate their proficiency and interest in specific subjects, and both differ significantly from the standard SAT in their reliance on students’ prior knowledge and comprehension rather than on critical analysis and general problem solving ability. However, there are also some key differences students may wish to be aware of when deciding how to alter their test prep in absence of the SAT Subject Tests . Firstly, because AP exams offer students opportunities to earn valuable college credits, the level of rigor on the exams is closer to that of a first-year college course than to the high school curriculum covered on the SAT Subject Tests . Additionally, there are several key differences in the structure and scoring of the exams:

While the long term effects that these changes might have on students currently preparing for the exams of spring 2021 and beyond remain to be seen, understanding their immediate effects can help students develop effective plans and ease concerns. Additionally, the cancellation of the SAT Subject tests will likely allow schools to offer a greater number of seats to students seeking to register for the SAT this spring.

 I would encourage any students or families with questions or concerns to reach out to their guidance counselor or a test prep professional to discuss how this impacts their current plans.

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What were SAT Subject Tests?

College Board

• February 23, 2024

SAT Subject Tests ™  were standardized college admission tests in specific subjects. Students could choose to take these tests, in addition to the SAT, to showcase their strengths and interests. Previously called SAT II: Subject Tests, and before that Achievement Tests, e ach Subject Test examined students’ understanding of material taught in school. 

There were 20 available tests grouped into five main categories:  Math, Science, English, History, and Languages.

Some colleges used SAT Subject Tests for admission, course placement, and to advise students about course selection. Some colleges required students to submit scores from SAT Subject Tests for certain courses or programs.

College Board discontinued Subject Tests in 2021 . As students and colleges adapted to new realities and changes to the college admissions process, College Board stopped offering Subject Tests to reduce demands on students.

Students can still get and send Subject Test scores   from previous administrations, just as they do for the SAT. Students who didn’t get a chance to take Subject Tests can stand out on college applications by taking the SAT . And the expanded reach of AP and its widespread availability means that students have more ways to show what they know and what they’ve learned in specific subjects.

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What Is A Good SAT Score In 2023?

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The Scholastic Aptitude Test, more commonly known as the SAT, is a name that resonates with all high school students aspiring to attend college. This standardized test assesses students’ readiness for higher education. For many, it represents a significant milestone in their academic journey, potentially opening doors to higher education.

The SAT often takes center stage as a pivotal component of the college application process. Therefore, it’s no wonder that the question “What is a good SAT score?” frequently arises. So, let’s explore the factors that define a good SAT score. Understanding the scoring system allows students to chart a confident course toward achieving their academic goals.

The Importance of SAT Scores

SAT scores are important for several reasons, primarily in the context of college admissions in the United States. Though some higher education institutions have gone test-optional and mainly base their admission decisions on grade point averages (GPAs), many others prefer using SAT scores as a standardized way to compare students from different high schools and regions. Since educational systems can vary significantly from one institution to another, the SAT offers a standard metric that colleges can use to evaluate students on a level playing field. 

Another notable aspect of the importance of SAT scores lies in their impact on merit-based scholarships granted by educational institutions. Such scholarships are designed to reward students with exceptional academic achievement and potential, including good college GPAs and SAT scores. Therefore, SAT scores can substantially enhance a student’s eligibility for merit-based scholarships, creating financial support opportunities that ease the financial load of tuition expenses.

Understanding the SAT Score Range

SAT scores can range from 400 points to 1600. This score is calculated by adding the scores from the Reading and Writing section and the Math section. Each of these two sections can yield a score between 200 and 800.

Test Breakdown

The SAT consists of three tests with a total of 154 questions or tasks:

• The Reading Test (52 questions/tasks)
• The Writing and Language Test (44 questions/tasks)
• The Math Test (58 questions/tasks)
• An optional essay

Most of the questions are presented in a multiple-choice format. However, a subset of the math questions requires you to provide the answer in written form instead of selecting it from the options.

How is the Test Scored?

Each test score is based on the number of questions answered correctly, which is then converted into a scaled score between 10 and 40 to account for differences in difficulty. The Reading and Writing section score is calculated by multiplying the Reading test and the Writing and Language test scores by 10 and adding them together. Then, the Math section score is calculated by multiplying the Math Test score by 20.

Similarly, after calculating each test score, the section scores are based on the raw score in each section, converted to a scaled score between 200 and 800.

What Constitutes a Good SAT Score in 2023?

Recognizing that what constitutes a good SAT score can vary significantly is essential. Except for a perfect score, which is undoubtedly “good,” the definition of a good score is intricately linked to factors such as the median composite SAT score and the specific higher education institution you aspire to attend.

Median Composite SAT Score

You can determine how good your SAT score is by calculating your percentile ranking with the average of all nationwide test takers. According to College Board reports , the middle composite SAT score, known as the median, is set at 1088.

Therefore, since the 50th percentile aligns with the median, you can assume that half of the test takers obtained scores below this point while the other half scored higher. Achieving a composite SAT score of 1088 or beyond places you above the average performance level and indicates a “good” SAT score.

Varied Expectations Across Different College Types

What’s considered a good SAT score will also depend on the type of college or university you’re applying to, as different institutions have varying average scores for admitted students.

Some highly selective schools have rigorous admission standards and typically require SAT scores well above the national average, often in the top percentiles. On the other hand, moderately selective schools provide much more flexibility in their admission requirements. A good score for such schools would be scores close to or slightly above the median.

Preparing for the SAT

Regardless of how great of a student you were in high school, it is essential to study specifically for the SAT to get a good SAT score. This preparatory phase should span several months, considering that preparing for the SAT is a gradual and comprehensive process. By employing the right strategies, students can strive to conquer the SAT while nurturing fundamental skills supporting their academic journey.

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Self-study, Tutoring, and Test Prep Courses

A balanced approach to adequate SAT preparation involves independent efforts and seeking assistance from peers and professionals. While self-study offers the advantage of setting your own pace and focusing on specific areas, using official SAT materials to guide your learning, employing a tutor, or enrolling in a prep course can provide a more structured strategy. These options also bring the benefit of experienced educators who can pinpoint your weaknesses, guide you toward improvement, and enhance your overall readiness for the test..

Utilize Practice Tests

Another tried-and-true strategy when preparing for the SAT is to engage yourself through practice exams. These practice exams help familiarize you with the test format, hone your time management skills, and build confidence. Depending on your preferred test-taking environment, consider printing or taking the practice tests online to simulate the actual test conditions. This approach allows you to effectively replicate the experience you will encounter on the test day, be it a traditional paper-and-pencil version or the digital SAT. By immersing yourself in these simulated tests, you will refine your problem-solving abilities and better understand your strengths and areas that could benefit from extra attention.

Emphasizing Skill Improvement Over Rote Memorization

When preparing for the SAT, it’s crucial to prioritize skill enhancement over rote memorization. The SAT evaluates critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and the application of knowledge; therefore, by emphasizing skill improvement, test-takers can approach the exam with a versatile toolkit, enabling them to navigate its challenges and achieve better outcomes. Instead of memorizing formulas, focusing on understanding underlying principles and honing problem-solving skills not only yields effective SAT results but also cultivates valuable skills for the future.

SAT scores are crucial for college admissions and scholarships, significantly if your score exceeds the median score among your peers and meets the expectations of your desired institution. The key to achieving a good score is striking a balance between self-study, tutoring, and test preparation, all while emphasizing skill enhancement. By harnessing these strategies, you lay the groundwork for success on the SAT and future academic achievements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): 

What is a good sat score.

The definition of a good SAT score can differ based on the specific school you’re interested in. In general, if your score exceeds the median scores of admitted students, it can be classified as a strong performance.

Do colleges still look at SAT scores for admissions?

Though some colleges have adopted test-optional policies, most still consider SAT scores as part of a comprehensive application review, including grades, essays, and recommendations.

How is the SAT scored?

The SAT is scored based on the number of correct answers in the Reading and Writing and Math sections. Each can be scored between 200-800, and the total SAT score is the sum of these section scores.

Is the SAT Essay critical?

The SAT Essay is less important than the other sections since most colleges do not require it. However, some may use it to evaluate writing abilities. Therefore, check with your selected schools to determine if that section is necessary.

How can I find average SAT scores for colleges I’m interested in?

You can find average SAT scores for colleges on their websites, various college search platforms, or through the College Board.

How do I prepare for the SAT?

SAT preparation typically involves a blend of self-study, tutoring, and test prep courses. Focus on skill improvement, practice with official SAT materials, and consider taking practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format.

Is the SAT score the only thing colleges care about?

No, colleges typically evaluate SAT scores alongside other factors like GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters.

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Dear Abby: My dinner companions ate their salads and ordered their meals before I even sat at the table

• Published: Sep. 08, 2024, 12:00 p.m.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips.

• Abigail Van Buren

DEAR ABBY: I had an unpleasant experience when I joined a friend and a friend of hers at a restaurant for dinner recently. I arrived at the agreed-upon time, actually early, and expected to find them waiting in the lobby for me. They were nowhere to be seen, so I texted my friend several times to tell her I was there and to ask where they were. I finally walked around the crowded restaurant and found them seated and eating salads and rolls. They had already ordered their dinners. I was angry.

I thought it was poor etiquette since I was right on time. At least they could have waited to order and start eating. I repeat: I was not late. I will never agree to dine with them again. What do you think of this? -- OFFENDED IN THE EAST

DEAR OFFENDED: I think your friends were rude. It certainly didn’t make you feel welcome. If you could text them, they could have responded to let you know when and where they were seated. I don’t blame you for being reluctant to dine with those two again. If you did, there’s no guarantee you wouldn’t be treated the same way.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

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SAT Test Dates: Full Guide to Choosing (2024, 2025)

The SAT is offered seven times a year, but which SAT test dates will work best for you and your schedule? What essential factors should you consider before creating an SAT schedule? What are the best SAT dates for juniors? For seniors?

In this comprehensive guide, we offer you the most current info on SAT test dates (domestic and international) for 2024-2025. We also give you our top tips for choosing the best SAT test dates for you as well as tons of resources to help you navigate the complicated web of SAT/ACT test dates.

SAT Dates and Deadlines 2024-2025

In general, the College Board administers the SAT on Saturdays, with more tests offered in the fall. If you can't take the test on a Saturday for religious or other reasons, Sunday alternate dates are usually available.

Below, we give you SAT test dates, normal registration deadlines, late registration deadlines, and score release dates for the 2024 and 2025 test dates. International and US dates are the same.

These dates are all administered digitally.

SAT Test Dates and Deadlines (2024)

Most of the following dates are confirmed  by the College Board . However, score release dates are projections and subject to change.

SAT Test Dates 2024

SAT Test Dates and Deadlines (2025)

SAT Test Dates: 2023-2024 Visual Calendar and Trends

When it comes to choosing SAT dates, you don't want to simply register for the next available date. To help you select the best SAT test dates for you personally, we've created an easy-to-use visual calendar for the 2023-2024 SAT test dates. This infographic allows us to look at trends in SAT dates and see whether certain dates and deadlines overlap with others.

As you can see on this visual calendar, SAT test dates are tightly clustered in the late summer and fall. This is due to the fact that most college application deadlines are in the late fall and early winter. Essentially, the College Board is giving seniors multiple shots at hitting their SAT goal scores right before their applications are due.

In the spring, SAT dates are more spread out, with the exception of May and June. This is, again, due to the fact that there are fewer college application deadlines in spring than there are in fall and early winter. These dates are also geared more toward juniors and other students who'd like to take the SAT early.

Next, we can see that because of the high number of test dates in the fall, it's difficult to take two SATs in a row. By the time your score for one test comes out, the late registration date for the next test will have often already passed!

Even if you were to go ahead and register for another test without knowing your scores, you might end up ultimately wasting money on a retake if your scores are higher than you thought they'd be. Likewise, if you don't sign up for the following test, you might miss your only shot at raising your scores before your application deadlines.

Taking back-to-back SATs also doesn't give you enough time to make the most out of your retake; you'll likely see little, if any, improvement in your scores due to the lack of adequate prep time in between tests.

Choosing the Best SAT Test Date for You: 5 Essential Factors

It's critical you choose an SAT test date that'll work well for not just anyone but you specifically. Below are five major factors you'll want to consider before committing to a test date.

#1: When Are Your College Application Deadlines?

By far the most important factors are your college application deadlines. In the US, most deadlines fall around January 1 (for regular decision) and November 1 or 15 (for early action / early decision ).

The College Board sends SAT scores to schools (for your four free score reports ) within 10 days after you receive your exam scores , or approximately three to five weeks after the exam. However, not all schools process scores straight away; in fact, some might take a week or so to report scores . As a result, you might have to wait at most around six weeks after your test date for your schools to officially process your SAT scores.

And this doesn't even include the extra time needed to process orders for additional score reports (if you have more than four schools you want to send scores to). Ordering these reports will add at least another week or two once scores are released.

Therefore, as a rule, don't take the SAT less than five or six weeks before your college apps are due. If you'll be ordering additional score reports after your scores come out, stick with test dates more than seven or eight weeks before your deadlines.

Remember that if your schools don't receive or process your SAT scores in time, your application could get disqualified! So plan accordingly.

#2: Are You Applying for SAT Scholarships?

Another factor is SAT scholarships . Generally, school-based SAT scholarships will use the same deadlines as college applications. If you're not sure when your SAT scores are due, contact your schools directly to ask whether your scores should arrive earlier than or with your application.

#3: How Many Times Will You Take the SAT?

You should also consider whether you might want to retake the SAT if you're not getting the scores you need for college.

We typically recommend taking the SAT at least twice, possibly three times, depending on your score goals. Here's our suggested SAT schedule :

• Take the SAT in the fall of your junior year
• Take the SAT a second time in the spring of your junior year
• Take the SAT a final time in the late summer/early fall of your senior year

If you took your first SAT in the spring of your junior year instead of in the fall, you still have plenty of opportunities to take the SAT once or twice more. You could, for example, take the SAT a second time in June or August and a third time in October or November.

That said, avoid registering for back-to-back SAT test dates, especially in the fall of your senior year. Squeezing in too many SATs gives you barely any time to study and probably won't raise your score by any noticeable margin.

Furthermore, trying to balance so much prep during the school year—and as you're applying to college, no less!—is an incredibly stressful endeavor. So spread out your tests as best you can.

#4: How Much Study Time Will You Need?

Before you register for the SAT, decide how much time you'll need to dedicate to studying . We normally recommend setting aside three to six months for SAT prep. This amount of time allows you to space out your study sessions so that you're studying consistently without burning yourself out.

More importantly, though, you'll want a sufficient number of study hours. The number of hours you'll have to spend studying depends on the number of points you'd like to improve your baseline SAT score by. (A baseline score is the score you get on an official SAT practice test before you begin any SAT prep.)

Below are the (approximate) number of study hours required to make the following total point improvements on the SAT:

• 0-30 point improvement: 10 hours
• 30-70 point improvement: 20 hours
• 70-130 point improvement: 40 hours
• 130-200 point improvement: 80 hours
• 200-330 point improvement: 150 hours+

As you can see, the bigger the point increase you want, the more hours you'll have to study.

Unfortunately, not everyone has a ton of time to devote entirely to SAT prep. At a minimum, try to clock in at least 10 hours of prep.

If you only have a month or so before test day , you can still make large score increases—so long as you're willing to put in the effort. You can also use our last-minute SAT tips and strategies to help you get the score you want.

#5: Will You Have Any Obligations or Conflicts?

Finally, consider your own obligations. Is there anything you can't reschedule that'll be taking place on a certain test date? Do you have any ongoing commitments (school or otherwise) that could prevent you from being able to focus on your SAT prep? Obligations can be anything , from school plays and AP tests to sports tournaments and family vacations.

Before you choose a test date, make sure that you're keenly aware of your schedule. I suggest using a planner to take note of any big chunks of time during which you'll be too busy to study for the SAT.

Ultimately, if a certain test date feels overwhelming, choose another one for which you'll have far fewer obligations in the period leading up to it.

Quick Guide: What's the Best SAT Test Date for Juniors? For Seniors? For Early Action?

In reality, the "best" SAT test date varies for each student; however, sometimes you just want to know what a good test date is, generally speaking. Here, we give you a brief look at the best SAT test dates for four common scenarios.

Scenario 1: You're a Junior

• For 1st SAT: October, November, December
• For 2nd SAT: March, May, June

You should always take your first SAT as a junior, ideally in the fall. The October and November test dates offer lots of flexibility and plenty of time to study and prepare for round two should you want to take the SAT again.

In the spring, try to take the SAT in March or May—or at the latest, June. These dates ensure you'll have the entire summer to evaluate your scores, finalize your list of colleges, and decide whether you'd like to take the test again in August or autumn.

Scenario 2: You're a Senior

• Best Dates: August, October, November
• Riskier Dates: December

As a senior, you have up to four possible SAT test dates (for regular decision deadlines): August, October, November, and December.

As with all college prep, the earlier the better! Try to take the SAT in August, October, or November. These three test dates should have little trouble getting your scores to colleges in time, assuming your earliest deadline is somewhere around January 1.

Although you can opt for the December test date, too, I would only do so if your deadlines are January 10 or later. December scores aren't usually released until late December, so January 1 might be playing it a little too close for some colleges. Check with your schools directly to verify whether they'll accept SAT scores from the December test date before you register for it.

If your regular decision deadline happens to be especially early, like the University of California's November 30 deadline, opt for the August or October test dates instead.

Scenario 3: You're Applying Early Action/Early Decision

• Best Dates: June, August
• Riskier Dates: October

Most early action deadlines are November 1 or 15. A June or August test date (before your senior year) is an excellent choice since scores from either test date should definitely get to your schools in time. These dates also give you the fall to focus entirely on your college applications instead of on SAT prep.

The October deadline is a bit riskier, though, as its scores aren't normally released until the end of October. So if your deadline is November 1, October probably won't work. If your deadlines are November 15 or later, however, October should be fine.

Scenario 4: Your College Applications Aren't Due Until February or Later

Many schools have later-than-normal deadlines in February, March, April, May, June, July, August, and even September . So which SAT test dates will work for these late decision schools?

Below are the latest SAT test dates you can choose depending on your college application deadline. The latest recommended dates are pretty much guaranteed to get your SAT scores to schools in time, whereas the riskier dates might not get your scores in before the deadlines.

SAT Test Dates May Change Sign up to Receive Free Updates

Additional Resources for Info on SAT Test Dates

Need extra assistance with choosing SAT test dates? Our top resources below will help you pinpoint the best SAT dates for you:

• When Should You Take the SAT or ACT? Best Test Dates: Our popular guide to SAT/ACT test dates zeroes in on the four most important factors you'll need to consider when selecting a test date. You can also check out our more general guide to the other major factors that come into play when choosing a test date .
• SAT/ACT Test Dates & Study Plan for Sophomores and Juniors : Seeking advice on when to take the SAT or ACT your sophomore or junior year? This guide walks you through a typical SAT/ACT test-taking schedule and offers targeted tips for honing your weaknesses.
• 5 Step SAT/ACT Test Dates & Study Plan for Summer Before Senior Year : This step-by-step guide explains how to structure a personalized SAT/ACT study plan before your senior year.
• The Best SAT and ACT Test Dates for Senior Fall : Looking for a guide geared specifically toward seniors? Here, we lay out the SAT/ACT test dates in autumn and provide you with tips on how to choose the best date for you.
• Can I Get an Alternate SAT Test Date? : If there's a conflict with your current SAT test date, you might be able to schedule an alternate test date for the following week. Read our guide to learn everything you can do to ensure your request is successful.

The Final Word: What to Know About SAT Test Dates

Although exact SAT test dates change each testing year, the exam will always be administered a total of seven times across the following months (in the US):

For the most part, international test dates are identical to US ones, although the registration deadlines and score release dates can vary. Also, this year the international dates will all be administered in the new digital format .

To choose a test date that's right for you, consider the following four factors:

• When your college application and scholarship deadlines are
• How many times you want to take the SAT
• How much time you're willing to study
• Whether you'll have any obligations that might prevent you from taking the SAT on a certain date

Hopefully, after reading this guide, you now have a clearer and more confident sense as to which SAT test dates will work for you!

What's Next?

Planning ahead for 2024 or 2025? Then take a look at our handy (and updated!) compilation of future SAT test dates .

You've chosen an SAT test date—your next step now is to get online and register for the SAT . Our detailed guide offers easy-to-follow instructions to help walk you smoothly through the registration process.

Ready to get a great SAT score ? Consider the many different ways you can prep for the exam by reading our free eBook . And if you're hoping for a perfect score , check out our in-depth guide to getting a 1600 on the SAT , written by an expert full scorer!

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Fred is co-founder of PrepScholar. He scored a perfect score on the SAT and is passionate about sharing information with aspiring students. Fred graduated from Harvard University with a Bachelor's in Mathematics and a PhD in Economics.

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Breaking news, taylor swift and travis kelce attend us open together to cap off eventful nyc weekend.

Taylor Swift and boyfriend Travis Kelce continued the Chiefs’ Week 1 victory lap on Sunday with an appearance at the U.S. Open.

The couple put on a cozy display in Flushing ahead of the men’s final between American Taylor Fritz and Italy’s Jannik Sinner.

Clad in a red and white linen dress from Reformation, Swift kept close to Kelce, who opted for a Gucci ensemble of a white cardigan, shorts and a bucket hat.

In a tennis era 🤩 Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce arrive at the US Open. pic.twitter.com/ZsXN2KpgDF — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 8, 2024

They were joined by Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and his wife, Brittany, who sat in a separate suite from Swift’s during Thursday’s opener at Arrowhead Stadium.

Fritz, 26, is seeking his first-ever Grand Slam win while Sinner, 23, is hoping to close out 2024 with another championship after capturing the Australian Open in January.

It’s been a busy few days for Swift and Kelce, 34, who celebrated the Chiefs’ season-opening win Thursday against the Ravens at an intimate afterparty in Kansas City before jetting to New York on Friday.

The pair enjoyed a dinner date in Brooklyn that night before attending model Karen Elson’s wedding at Electric Lady Studios in Greenwich Village the following day.

Kelce, who has been dating Swift since last year, kicked off his 12th NFL season on Thursday with three receptions for 34 yards in the Chiefs’ 27-20 victory.

The Chiefs are seeking a Super Bowl three-peat following their championship wins over the Eagles and 49ers in back-to-back years.

Swift was in attendance for Kansas City’s Super Bowl triumph against San Francisco this past February.

She and Kelce embraced on the field at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

Swift will likely attend more Chiefs games this season as she’s currently on hiatus from her blockbuster Eras Tour, which wrapped its European leg in August.

Shows will resume next month in North America before concluding in December.

The Chiefs host the Bengals next Sunday at 4:25 p.m.

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Aaron Rodgers has honest admission about his 2023 Achilles injury

Dec 10, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) on the field after the game against the Houston Texans at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Aaron Rodgers is days away from his second season debut for the New York Jets. After his brutal injury last season, the Jets quarterback wasn’t sure it was going to happen.

Jets fans vividly remember the moment Rodgers went down with a season-ending Achilles injury four snaps into the 2023 campaign.

Rodgers recently sat down with former QB Alex Smith on ESPN’s “Sunday NFL Countdown.” Smith asked Rodgers what he remembered from the day the latter got injured.

The 4-time MVP admitted that he truly thought his career was over.

“I knew when I was on the ground that something was wrong,” Rodgers told Smith. “And sometimes you get drilled and you know something is off, and you just kind of hope you get up. … But when I stood up, I knew it and then I just went down.

“Everything flashing before your eyes: the 18 years at Green Bay, the trade, the spring, the excitement, the summer, the city, ‘Hard Knocks,’ run on the field with the flag for the first time, 9/11. Yeah, just thinking that’s going to be the last time. … In the training room I really thought, ‘Damn, that’s how I’m going to go out.'”

Aaron Rodgers gets emotional talking to Alex Smith about his ruptured Achilles in 2023: "I knew when I was on the ground that something was wrong. Sometimes you get drilled, something’s off, you just kind of hope you get up, & it shakes itself out." pic.twitter.com/18DvULq2NW — Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) September 8, 2024

Despite suffering a major injury at age 39, Rodgers is slated to take the field once more Monday when the Jets take on the San Francisco 49ers.

The path for Rodgers to get to this point has been far from easy.

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Most scores from the August 24th SAT are now available. View your scores.

SAT Dates and Deadlines

At this time, registration is open for all students for the entire 2024–25 testing year.

All deadlines expire at 11:59 p.m. ET, U.S.

August 2024–June 2025 Test Dates

These test dates and deadlines apply to all students—U.S. and international—taking the SAT:

Anticipated 2025–26 Test Dates

• August 23, 2025
• October 4, 2025
• November 8, 2025
• December 6, 2025
• March 14, 2026
• May 2, 2026
• June 6, 2026

Review the latest registration fees and other charges for taking the SAT.

Policies for International Testing

Learn about the different registration policies for students taking the SAT outside the United States and U.S. territories.

International Fees

Learn about SAT registration fees and other fees for students taking the test outside the United States.

Sign in and register for the SAT.