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When Are SAT Scores Released? Complete 2023 Dates

What’s covered:, how long does it take for sat scores to come back, sat score release dates 2022-2023, predicted fall 2023 score release dates, how do i know if my sat score is good enough.

Wondering when your SAT scores come out? Waiting for your SAT scores can be agonizing, especially since SAT score release u sually takes a couple of weeks after your test date.

In this post, we’ll go over when you can expect your scores, when colleges will receive your score reports, and how to use your score report to improve your SAT scores.

In general, SAT scores become available online about 13 days after you take the test. This includes the Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing scores, as well as your composite score. Keep in mind, however, that some summer test score reports can take up to five weeks to be released.

If you took the SAT before December 2022, your scores have been released. You can check them online via the College Board website.

Read on for a table of the exact 2022-2023 dates.

When Will Colleges Receive My Score Reports?

If you opted to use the four free score reports that are sent directly to colleges, they will be received by the colleges within 10 days of the date you receive your scores. This means that colleges will get your score report within 23 days of you taking the test.

If you are ordering score reports after receiving your scores, it usually takes 1-2 weeks for your scores to arrive and to be processed. Colleges have different policies on how often they download new score reports, so the date of receipt really depends on each college’s download frequency.

But what if you took the test in school on a weekday? Those dates are below:

What Time Are SAT Scores Released?

SAT scores usually come out in waves throughout the day, and some are released as early as 5 AM Eastern Time (2 AM Pacific Time). That said, don’t expect them that early, and don’t lose sleep over it. Sometimes scores aren’t released until the late or early afternoon.

According to the College Board , about half the students will be able to see their scores online by 8 AM ET, and the other half will usually see them by 8 PM ET. You should also receive an email when your scores are available for viewing.

You’ll notice that most SAT score release dates follow a pattern:

• The multiple-choice scores come out 13 days after the test date.
• Colleges receive scores 10 days after you receive your scores.

Based on this pattern, here’s what we expect the score release dates to be for Fall 2023. They are tentative and are yet to be confirmed by the College Board .

How Do I Get My SAT Scores?

The quickest and easiest way to receive your SAT scores is through your online CollegeBoard account. Simply visit the College Board homepage and click on the blue box that prompts you to log in with your username and password. Then click on the “My SAT” link below your name. From there, you’ll be able to view all your available test scores, listed by test date.

Should I Send My SAT Scores to Test-Optional Schools?

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many colleges have become test-optional. This is because many SAT administrations were canceled during 2020 and 2021, as it was deemed potentially unsafe for students to take the test in person.

For test-optional schools, if you have an SAT score at or above the 25th percentile for accepted students, you should submit it. For example, if you’re applying to Princeton (where the 25th percentile SAT score is 1460), you should only submit your score if you receive a 1460 or higher.

Going test-optional and wondering about your admissions chances? Our admissions calculator takes into consideration whether or not you’re applying to a test-optional school. Check your chances now !

How to Understand Your SAT Score

Composite score.

Scoring the test is fairly straightforward. Total composite SAT scores range from 400-1600 points, tallied from two sections—Math, and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing—with each section worth 200-800 points.

The College Board—the organization responsible for administering the SAT—redesigned the test in 2016 with the intention of an average composite score of 1000—squarely in the middle of the minimum score of 400 and the maximum score of 1600. With that knowledge, you can get an idea of how you stack up against other test-takers.

Percentiles

A more scientific way of understanding your SAT score is to use percentiles, which the College Board publishes yearly. Your score report will list two kinds of percentile ranks—Nationally Representative Sample Percentiles and SAT User Percentiles.

Nationally Representative Sample Percentiles, derived from a research study of U.S. students in 11th and 12th grades, compare your score to what’s typical of high school juniors and seniors. SAT User Percentiles compare your score to actual SAT test-takers.

The SAT User Percentile is more useful as a data point. Your SAT User Percentile tells you how you “ranked” compared to other test-takers. For example, if you scored in the 50th percentile, you scored at or above the scores of 50% of other SAT test-takers.

The SAT also provides seven subscores ranging from 1-15, four from the Reading, and Writing and Language Sections (Command of Evidence, Words in Context, Expression of Ideas, and Standard English Conventions), and three from the Math test (Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving, and Data Analysis).

Subscores are color coded to make identifying strengths and weaknesses easy—green meaning “ on track for college readiness ,” yellow translating to “ close to being on track for college readiness; continue to strengthen skills ,” and red signaling a “ need to strengthen skills .” Subscores are an excellent way for students to identify where to focus their energy if they’re planning on retaking the SAT!

According to the College Board , the average SAT score in 2021 was 1088, with the average Math score at 538 and the average Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score at 541. These scores do little to tell you how your SAT score will affect your chances of getting into your dream school, however.

To put your SAT score in context, look at the average SAT scores for incoming freshmen at the schools you’re interested in, and see how you compare. The majority of colleges publish the middle 50% SAT scores of the students they have admitted. If you’re not sure what that means, the middle 50% is a range of scores between the 25th percentile and the 75th—which is a good demonstration of the type of score you’ll need to gain entry.

As an example of middle 50% scores, Princeton University had scores ranging from 1460-1600 for the class of 2026, with a Math score of 760-800 and an Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 730-780.

Keep in mind that these numbers reflect the average student—25% of students will have scored below the middle 50%, and 25% will have scored above it. That being said, scoring on the high end of the range, or above it, will help increase your chances of acceptance.

How Does My SAT Score Impact My College Chances?

Selective colleges use a metric called the Academic Index (AI) to represent the strength of applicants’ grades and test scores. If your AI is too low, a school may not even review the rest of your application. That’s why it’s so crucial to have a strong academic profile.

We’ve made it easy to understand the impact of your SAT score by creating a free Admissions Calculator . This calculator will let you know how your score stacks up against other applicants’ scores, and will give you tips on improving the rest of your profile, including your grades and extracurriculars.

You can also search for schools based on preferences like location, major, cost, and more. Give it a try to get a jump-start on your college admissions strategy!

What Should I Do If My SAT Score Is Too Low?

If you didn’t get the SAT score you were hoping for, don’t stress. Unless it’s December in your senior year, you probably have time to improve significantly before you apply to college. If you want to improve your score, review the SAT calendar and set your sights on a new test date. Then, go over your complete score report to get a better idea of which areas tripped you up the most. Focus on these areas to improve your score over the next few weeks.

If it is already your senior year, remember that you can always apply to test-optional schools. Circumstances such as the pandemic that may have led to disappointing scores are the reason that this option exists, especially during this year!

Keep in mind, however, that if your score is too low, it may mean that you aren’t academically ready for that college in particular (especially if your grades and your high school’s course rigor don’t meet those of the average accepted student). It’s also important to be realistic and apply to colleges that you have a good chance of being admitted to.

For more information about improving your SAT score, check out these CollegeVine’s many articles with SAT info and tips !

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

When Do SAT Scores Come Out? And Other SAT Score Release Facts You Should Know

When Do SAT Scores Come Out?

When do SAT scores come out? At the earliest , you will be able to view your scores online beginning 13 days after the test. SAT multiple choice scores can take anywhere from 13 to 19 days to be released during the academic year – and up to five and a half weeks in the summer.

The tables below cover the schedule of SAT score release dates: every SAT test date and SAT score release date for the 2022-23, 2021-22, and 2020-21 testing years in the U.S. — as well as international dates. For more information about registration dates and choosing the best test date, see our accompanying post on SAT test dates .

You may notice that for most of the test dates, a range of release dates are given. This is the time frame within which you can expect to get your multiple choice scores.

U.S. and International SAT Score Release Dates

2022-2023 sat score release dates (u.s.), 2021-2022 sat score release dates (u.s.), 2020-2021 sat score release dates (u.s.).

2022-2023 SAT Score Release Dates (International)

*College Board announced that digital SAT scores will be released in a matter of days, not weeks, so these scores will likely come out sooner.

2021-2022 SAT Score Release Dates (International)

2020-2021 sat score release dates (international), frequently asked questions.

Here are a few reasons that your SAT score release may have been delayed: Your score improvement was too large: If you’re retaking the SAT and end up raising your score by over 200 points in a section, or 400 points total, the College Board may double check your test for cheating . That kind of score improvement can happen (we’ve seen it!) but it’s pretty rare, so they may be taking a second look, just in case. You were reported for cheating: If you weren’t cheating, everything should work out fine and your scores will just be delayed a little – but if you did cheat, it’s possible that your score will be canceled. Something was off with your test administration: The College Board has very strict rules about how the SAT is supposed to be administered. If your proctor didn’t follow the standard protocol, your SAT score release could be delayed until the College Board sorts things out. Your registration had some errors: At the beginning of the test, you’re asked to bubble in a whole bunch of information about yourself, for registration purposes. If you bubbled anything in this section incorrectly, the College Board may have trouble finding you. The College Board is running behind: It happens! If you haven’t received your scores on time, the best thing to do is call the College Board and find out what’s up. To contact the College Board from the United States, call: (866) 756-7346. For their international line, call: (212) 713-7789

You can access your SAT scores online through your College Board account. If you don’t have an account yet, learn how to create one here . Easy enough!

A good SAT score depends on where you want to go to college! All you need to do is find out the score range for your school of choice, and aim for the 75th percentile of that range — if you can score around the top 25% of what admitted students are averaging, you’ll have a good shot at acceptance.

The answer depends on many factors, including what we mentioned in the previous answer. If you think you could score significantly better the second time around, you may want to retake the SAT .

Don’t forget, if you’re a premium Magoosh SAT student, then you’re eligible for our up to 100-point score guarantee, and probably a free retake extension. Email [email protected] to get more information.

Not a Magoosh student yet? No problem. We offer online, self-paced prep for the SAT. We’ve helped thousands of students improve their test scores, and we’d love to help you, too.

All Magoosh SAT prep plans are digital SAT ready! Start studying today.

Still have questions?

You’re probably not alone. Leave us a comment below, and we’ll do our best to answer! 🙂

Molly is one of Magoosh’s Content Creators. She designs Magoosh’s graphic assets, manages our YouTube channels and podcasts, and contributes to the Magoosh High School Blog.

Since 2014, Molly has tutored high school and college students preparing for the SAT, GRE, and LSAT. She began her tutoring journey while in undergrad, helping her fellow students master math, computer programming, Spanish, English, and Philosophy.

Molly graduated from Lewis & Clark College with a B.A. in Philosophy, and she continues to study ethics to this day. An artist at heart, Molly loves blogging, making art, taking long walks and serving as personal agent to her cat, who is more popular on Instagram than she is.

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2 responses to “When Do SAT Scores Come Out? And Other SAT Score Release Facts You Should Know”

To whom it may concern,

I am a U.S. citizen, but my family and I reside in Papua New Guinea because we are missionaries. I will be taking the SAT on October 1, 2022, in Papua New Guinea, and it says that scores will be released for international test takers on or around the 14th of the same month. I am just wondering; will the test have to travel overseas to the United States to be scored? If this is the case, will the time it takes to travel to the States have any effect on the score release timeframe? The chart also says that the scores for domestic test takers will be released on the same day as the scores for international test takers so that doesn’t really make sense to me.

Thank you. Jared

We aren’t sure of the exact process the SAT uses to release scores, However, I’d encourage you to check out their website information here , and write to them directly if you still have questions.

Hope this helps a bit! 🙂

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When Do SAT Scores Come Out?

Featured Expert: Austin Hancock, Princeton University

If you're wondering, "When do SAT scores come out?" you're not alone. After carefully choosing between SAT vs ACT and selecting the optimal SAT test date , you must be anxious to understand how and when your scores are released. This article sheds light on all aspects of the SAT score release dates and how the process works. We dive into the timeframe for score release, how to retrieve your scores, when colleges receive your scores, and the typical schedule for SAT score release. In addition, we provide guidance on what to do if you face difficulty accessing your scores. Let this be your guide to navigating the SAT score release process, helping to ease post-test anticipation.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 7 min read

So you have decided to take the test after pondering whether you should take the SAT . The excitement that follows your SAT test day often pairs with anticipation about when your scores will be available. So, when can you expect to see your SAT scores? To help manage this post-test waiting period, it's beneficial to understand the usual timelines for score release.

As a rule of thumb, SAT scores are usually posted online within a 2–4 week window after you take the test, during the school year. This applies primarily to the multiple-choice sections of the SAT. If you've opted for the SAT with Essay, be prepared to wait a few more days beyond the release of your multiple-choice scores to see your essay score.

To put it more precisely:

• For those who have taken the SAT on a Saturday, you can generally expect to see your multiple-choice scores roughly two weeks post-test.
• For weekday SAT takers, specifically, those who take the test at school, the waiting period extends to approximately three weeks.

Do note that if you've taken the SAT over the summer, the score release could take a bit longer due to the increased volume of test-takers.

These timelines offer a general guide, but the exact score release dates might shift slightly from year to year. For the most accurate timeline, keep an eye on your College Board account starting two weeks after your test date. With a blend of patience and regular monitoring, you will soon see your scores reflecting your efforts.

Crack Harvard admissions: See accepted vs. rejected essays! Watch this video:

How Do I Get My SAT Scores?

Once your SAT scores are ready for viewing, the College Board will notify you via email. To access your scores, you will need to log into your online account in the College Board's Student Score Reports section. In addition to your SAT scores, this is where you will find your scores for any PSAT-related tests or SAT Subject Tests you have taken.

If you don't already have a College Board online account, there's no need to worry. The process to create one is straightforward and user-friendly, and it will provide you with a valuable resource for your college application process.

For those who registered for the SAT by mail and don't have a College Board online account, the Board will send your SAT scores report by mail. However, creating an online account is advisable for quicker access to your scores and other useful resources.

Navigating the college application process can be a whirlwind, and knowing when your SAT scores will reach your prospective colleges is crucial in managing your application timeline effectively.

Once you gain access to all your SAT scores online, the College Board begins the process of delivering these results to your university list . Generally, colleges receive your SAT scores within 10 days from when your scores are fully available to you.

If you opted for the SAT with Essay, it's essential to note that your essay scores will be posted a few days after your multiple-choice scores are available. This slight delay might lead to a day or two more before your entire score report, including your essay score, reaches colleges.

In essence, remember to consider these timelines when selecting your SAT test dates and college application deadlines. While the SAT score reporting schedule is designed with college application deadlines in mind, leaving a sufficient buffer can ensure you stay ahead in the admissions game.

In the wake of your SAT test day, you might find yourself frequently checking for your scores. But do you know what time of day they are typically released? Let's uncover this detail to manage your expectations effectively.

The College Board generally releases SAT scores online starting from 8 A.M. Eastern Time (ET) on the designated SAT score release dates. However, it's important to remember that scores roll out throughout the day, and not all students will receive their scores at exactly 8 A.M. ET. This means you might not see your scores until later in the day, even if you're checking right at 8 A.M.

Why does this happen? It’s because score reports are released in batches rather than all at once. The timing of the score release is not indicative of the score itself or the test-takers performance. So, try not to stress if your scores aren't available right away in the morning.

Remember, patience is key here. While the wait may feel long, rest assured that your scores will be available on the scheduled score release date.

SAT Score Release Dates

In this section, we outline the specific release dates for SAT scores based on when and how you took the test.

If You Took the SAT on or before June

For those who have already completed the SAT by June, your scores should be available to view by August. You can access these by visiting your online score report or find out how to send these scores to the colleges of your choice.

For SATs Taken After June

If you're planning to take the SAT after June, be aware that scores are generally sent to colleges approximately ten days post the score release date. Here's a rundown of the release dates based on test dates:

• SAT held on August 26 - Score release on September 8
• SAT held on October 7 - Score release on October 20
• SAT held on November 4 - Score release on November 17
• SAT held on December 2 - Score release on December 15

SAT School Day Takers

Many students now have the opportunity to take the SAT at their school on a weekday, known as SAT School Day. Here's when you can expect to see your scores based on test dates:

• SAT held on April 12 - Most scores available on May 3
• SAT held on April 25 - Most scores available on May 18

Please note, these dates are estimates and could vary slightly, so always keep an eye on your online score report for the most accurate information.

Need Help Getting Your Scores?

Receiving your SAT scores is generally straightforward. However, sometimes you might face a few challenges. Let's take a look at some common issues and how you can resolve them.

1. Not Seeing Your Scores?

If your SAT score release date has passed and you still can't see your scores, don't panic. Here are a few reasons why this could happen:

You're checking too early in the day: Remember, SAT scores are rolled out in batches throughout the day. Check back a bit later.

Your test is still being scored: This could especially be the case if you took the SAT with Essay as the essay scores take a few more days to be ready.

There's a delay in scoring: This is rare but can happen due to various reasons like a discrepancy in your test booklet.

If your scores are significantly delayed, it's best to reach out to the College Board directly for assistance.

2. Difficulty Accessing Your Online Account?

If you're having trouble signing in to your College Board account, try resetting your password. Remember, this is where your scores will be posted first, so you’ll want to ensure you can log in.

3. Not Receiving Emails from the College Board?

Ensure that the email address associated with your College Board account is correct and up-to-date. Also, check your spam or junk folder just in case the emails are being sent there.

4. Need Paper Score Reports?

If you registered by mail and didn't include an email address, a paper score report will be mailed to you. Paper reports are generally sent about four to six weeks after the test date.

Remember, it's normal to feel a bit anxious waiting for your SAT scores but rest assured they are on their way. If you're encountering issues, the College Board is there to assist you. Just reach out to them with your queries, and they'll guide you through the process.

The SAT is a challenging test, and it's not unusual to feel disappointed or anxious if your score isn't as high as you had hoped. It’s really important to know how to study for the SAT due to its unique format. So, should you consider retaking the SAT if your score is lower than expected?

The first step is to realistically assess your score. Compare it against the average scores of accepted students at the colleges you're interested in. If your score is noticeably below these averages, you might want to think about a retake.

Also, reflect on your SAT preparation. Did you prepare as fully as you could have? Did you have a good SAT study schedule ? Were there sections of the test you struggled with? If you believe that further study and practice could improve your score, then retaking the test might be a good idea.

Furthermore, consider whether there were any extenuating circumstances that may have affected your test performance. Perhaps you were ill on test day, or dealing with a personal issue. If your score doesn't reflect your true academic abilities due to such factors, a retake may be advisable.

However, remember that SAT scores are just one factor that colleges look at during the admissions process. A lower-than-desired SAT score does not automatically mean you won't get into the school of your choice. Schools also consider factors like your GPA, extracurriculars for college , college recommendation letters , and college essays .

Before you decide to retake the SAT, it can be helpful to speak with a college admissions consultant or teacher who knows your academic abilities well. They can provide guidance based on their understanding of your strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision.

Remember, the ultimate goal is not just to achieve a high score on the SAT, but to gain admission to a college where you will thrive and succeed. Whether or not you decide to retake the SAT, the most important thing is to continue working towards this larger goal.

Typically, SAT scores are released 2-4 weeks after the test date. For summer administrations, it might take a bit longer. If the SAT was taken with an essay, the essay scores are made available a few days after the multiple-choice scores are posted.

You will receive an email notifying you when your SAT scores are available. You can then log in to your College Board online account and go to the Student Score Reports section to view them.

It's quite simple to create a College Board online account if you don't already have one. Just visit the official website and follow the prompts for creating a new account.

The College Board sends your SAT scores to your chosen colleges within about 10 days of you receiving all your SAT scores. If you took the SAT with an Essay, it may take a day or two longer for colleges to get your scores.

SAT scores start to roll out at 8 A.M. Eastern Time (ET) on designated release dates, though not everyone's scores are available simultaneously. Hence, you might have to wait until later in the day to access your scores.

The score release dates are typically about 10 days after the test date. For example, for a test held on August 26, 2023, the score release date would be September 8, 2023.

Many schools now offer SAT School Day, which lets you take the SAT at your school on a weekday. The scores are typically available about three weeks after the test date.

If you're having trouble accessing your scores, you can get help from the College Board's customer service. They can guide you through the process and resolve any issues you may be encountering.

Yes, there are colleges that do not require the SAT or the ACT .

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When Do SAT Scores Come Out? Digital SAT Release Dates for 2024

March 18, 2024

After completing an SAT test, we understand that you are extremely eager to find out your results. If you are a senior, you may also be anxious to know how quickly your prospective colleges can receive your results. This blog has you covered on both fronts as we answer the question: when do SAT scores come out in the 2024 school year? We’ll also cover what date and time SAT scores are released, when SAT scores are sent to colleges, and how to access & send your scores.

Looking for expert SAT test prep? For years, we’ve been referring our clients to a select group of providers. Click below to learn more.

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When do SAT scores come out in 2024?

In a typical administration, you’ll be able to view your SAT score 13 days after you take the test. Below, you’ll find a chart of expected administration, release, and college sending dates for the 2024 academic year.

Wondering about the rest of 2024? Here are the anticipated SAT test and release dates for the rest of the year, although they are subject to change:

What day do SAT scores come out?

If you take the test on a Saturday, you should receive your SAT results on the second Friday after the testing date.

What time do SAT scores come out?

While most scores will be uploaded by 8 a.m. ET on release day, do not be alarmed if your score is not uploaded in the first possible hour. Straight from the College Board: “We stagger the score distribution to enable easy access due to the large number of students (millions) accessing their results. However, all scores are generally available by 8 p.m. ET on release day.”

Although the time that you receive your SAT scores may vary, rest assured that you will receive it as soon as possible.

What if I took the SAT as part of an SAT School Day?

While most American students still take the SAT on Saturday mornings, an increasing number of high schools now offer what is known as SAT School Day. These tests , which are administered during an actual school day, take the College Board longer to score. As a result, if you take the SAT School Day exam, you should receive your results within 3-4 weeks. However, your school counselor receives your test results first, so they may provide them to you earlier.

The testing weeks and score release dates for the 2024 school year are as follows:

How do I send my SAT score to colleges?

When you register, you’ll have the chance to indicate which colleges you’d like to receive your test scores. If you don’t have your college list nailed down yet, no worries—you can send official SAT Score Reports directly from your College Board account later. To do this, you’ll navigate to the “Send SAT Scores” page, select which institutions you’d like to share your scores with, and then select which testing dates you’d like to send.

Keep in mind that some colleges require you to send all scores while others allow you to choose specific dates. However, you cannot send individual Math or Reading scores—you have to send the entire score for each date. If your colleges superscore , they will do so during the admissions process.

How quickly will colleges receive my scores?

The College Board generally sends scores to any selected colleges within ten days of score release. For specific dates in the 2024 testing cycle, you can view the previous chart.

How do I view my SAT scores?

For these steps, we go right to the directions from the College Board themselves :

• Go to the Student Score Report home page. You’ll need to sign into your College Board account to view this page. Once you’re signed in, your most recent score should be shown at the top of the page. To see all your previous SAT ® and PSAT-related assessment scores, you can click on “Show Additional Scores.”
• Click “See Score Details” for more information, like score comparisons and percentile ranks.

In the report, you will see your total score and score by section. Additionally, you’ll see the percentile score for your overall score and subscores. This means you will be able to see how your results compare to other students who took the SAT that same day.

Do I need to save a copy of my SAT score report?

Your College Board account will maintain a downloadable version of your score report. This can be accessed anytime. Accordingly, there is no need to save anything or “print the internet.” Some colleges require that you send official copies of your SAT during the application. However, many schools in 2024-25 allow you to self-report your scores.

What browser is best for viewing SAT score results?

The College Board recommends using the latest version of Google Chrome or Safari whenever possible. However, Firefox and Edge will usually work just fine too.

What to Do While You are Waiting

If you are a sophomore or a junior, the post-SAT time period can be an excellent chance to:

• Study for school-based exams.
• Begin studying for a potential retake of the SAT/ACT.
• Ramp up your college search (we highly recommend our free  Dataverse ).

If you are a senior, try not to dedicate too much of your energy to wondering about your potential score! Instead, you can:

• Focus on your classes—GPA and course rigor are two of the most important factors in the college admissions process.
• Work on your college essays.
• Begin filling out your college applications.

When Are SAT Scores Released? – Other SAT Resources

We wish all of you the best of luck as you await your SAT results and hope that you hit your target score, whether that is a 1050, a 1300, or a 1570! In the interim, you may wish to check out some of our other blogs related to standardized testing:

• How Many AP Courses Should I Take?
• Where Should I Take AP Courses Online?
• When Should I Take the SAT for the First Time?
• What is an SAT/ACT Superscore?
• Should I Apply Test-Optional to College?
• What is a Good SAT Score?
• Average SAT Scores Over Time

Dave Bergman

Dave has over a decade of professional experience that includes work as a teacher, high school administrator, college professor, and independent educational consultant. He is a co-author of the books The Enlightened College Applicant (Rowman & Littlefield, 2016) and Colleges Worth Your Money (Rowman & Littlefield, 2020).

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SAT Essay Scores Explained

On january 19th, 2021, college board announced that they will no longer administer the sat subject tests in the u.s. and that the essay would be retired. read our blog post  to understand what this means in the near term and what the college board has in store for students down the road., our articles on subject tests and the sat essay will remain on our site for reference purposes as colleges and students transition to a revised testing landscape..

Why are there no percentiles for the essay on an SAT score report?

No percentiles or norms are provided in student reports. Even colleges do not receive any summary statistics. Given Compass’ concerns about the inaccuracy of essay scoring and the notable failures of the ACT on that front, the de-emphasis of norms would seem to be a good thing. The problem is that 10% of colleges are sticking with the SAT Essay as an admission requirement . While those colleges will not receive score distribution reports from the College Board, it is not difficult for them to construct their own statistics—officially or unofficially—based on thousands of applicants. Colleges can determine a “good score,” but students cannot. This asymmetry of information is harmful to students, as they are left to speculate how well they have performed and how their scores will be interpreted. Through our analysis, Compass hopes to provide students and parents more context for evaluating SAT Essay scores.

How has scoring changed? Is it still part of a student’s Total Score?

On the old SAT, the essay was a required component of the Writing section and made up approximately one-third of a student’s 200–800 score. The essay score itself was simply the sum (2–12) of two readers’ 1–6 scores. Readers were expected to grade holistically and not to focus on individual components of the writing. The SAT essay came under a great deal of criticism for being too loosely structured. Factual accuracy was not required; it was not that difficult to make pre-fabricated material fit the prompt; many colleges found the 2–12 essay scores of little use; and the conflation of the essay and “Writing” was, in some cases, blocking the use of the SAT Writing score—which included grammar and usage—entirely.

With the 2016 overhaul of the SAT came an attempt to make the essay more academically defensible while also making it optional (as the ACT essay had long been). The essay score is not a part of the 400–1600 score. Instead, a student opting to take the SAT Essay receives 2–8 scores in three dimensions: reading, analysis, and writing. No equating or fancy lookup table is involved. The scores are simply the sum of two readers’ 1–4 ratings in each dimension. There is no official totaling or averaging of scores, although colleges may choose to do so.

Readers avoid extremes

What is almost universally true about grading of standardized test essays is that readers gravitate to the middle of the scale. The default instinct is to nudge a score above or below a perceived cutoff or midpoint rather than to evenly distribute scores. When the only options are 1, 2, 3, or 4, the consequence is predictable—readers give out a lot of 2s and 3s and very few 1s and 4s. In fact, our analysis shows that 80% of all reader scores are 2s or 3s. This, in turn, means that most of the dimension scores (the sum of the two readers) range from 4 to 6. Analysis scores are outliers. A third of readers give essays a 1 in Analysis. Below is the distribution of reader scores across all dimensions.

What is a good SAT Essay score?

By combining multiple data sources—including extensive College Board scoring information—Compass has estimated the mean and mode (most common) essay scores for students at various score levels. We also found that the reading and writing dimensions were similar, while analysis scores lagged by a point across all sub-groups. These figures should not be viewed as cutoffs for “good” scores. The loose correlation of essay score to Total Score and the high standard deviation of essay scores means that students at all levels see wide variation of scores. The average essay-taking student scores a 1,080 on the SAT and receives just under a 5/4/5.

College Board recently released essay results for the class of 2017, so score distributions are now available. From these, percentiles can also be calculated. We provide these figures with mixed feelings. On the one hand, percentile scores on such an imperfect measure can be highly misleading. On the other hand, we feel that students should understand the full workings of essay scores.

The role of luck

What is frustrating to many students on the SAT and ACT is that they can score 98th percentile in most areas and then get a “middling” score on the essay. This result is actually quite predictable. Whereas math and verbal scores are the result of dozens of objective questions, the essay is a single question graded subjectively. To replace statistical concepts with a colloquial one—far more “luck” is involved than on the multiple-choice sections. What text is used in the essay stimulus? How well will the student respond to the style and subject matter? Which of the hundreds of readers were assigned to grade the student’s essay? What other essays has the reader recently scored?

Even good writers run into the unpredictability involved and the fact that essay readers give so few high scores. A 5 means that the Readers A and B gave the essay a 2 and a 3, respectively. Which reader was “right?” If the essay had encountered two readers like Reader A, it would have received a 4. If the essay had been given two readers like Reader B, it would have received a 6. That swing makes a large difference if we judge scores exclusively by percentiles, but essay scores are simply too blurry to make such cut-and-dry distinctions. More than 80% of students receive one of three scores—4, 5, or 6 on the reading and writing dimensions and 3, 4, or 5 on analysis.

What do colleges expect?

It’s unlikely that many colleges will release a breakdown of essay scores for admitted students—especially since so few are requiring it. What we know from experience with the ACT , though, is that even at the most competitive schools in the country, the 25th–75th percentile scores of admitted students were 8–10 on the ACT’s old 2–12 score range. We expect that things will play out similarly for the SAT and that most students admitted to highly selective colleges will have domain scores in the 5–7 range (possibly closer to 4–6 for analysis). It’s even less likely for students to average a high score across all three areas than it is to obtain a single high mark. We estimate that only a fraction of a percent of students will average an 8—for example [8/8/8, 7/8/8, 8/7/8, or 8,8,7].

Update as of October 2017. The University of California system has published the 25th–75th percentile ranges for enrolled students. It has chosen to work with total scores. The highest ranges—including those at UCLA and Berkeley—are 17–20. Those scores are inline with our estimates above.

How will colleges use the domain scores?

Colleges have been given no guidance by College Board on how to use essay scores for admission. Will they sum the scores? Will they average them? Will they value certain areas over others? Chances are that if you are worrying too much about those questions, then you are likely losing sight of the bigger picture. We know of no cases where admission committees will make formulaic use of essay scores. The scores are a very small, very error-prone part of a student’s testing portfolio.

How low is too low?

Are 3s and 4s, then, low enough that an otherwise high-scoring student should retest? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to that question. In general, it is a mistake to retest solely to improve an essay score unless a student is confident that the SAT Total Score can be maintained or improved. A student with a 1340 PSAT and 1280 SAT may feel that it is worthwhile to bring up low essay scores because she has previously shown that she can do better on the Evidence-based Reading and Writing and Math, as well. A student with a 1400 PSAT and 1540 SAT should think long and hard before committing to a retest. Admission results from the class of 2017 may give us some added insight into the use of SAT Essay scores.

Will colleges continue to require the SAT Essay?

For the class of 2017, Compass has prepared a list of the SAT Essay and ACT Writing policies for 360 of the top colleges . Several of the largest and most prestigious public university systems—California, Michigan, and Texas, for example, still require the essay, and a number of highly competitive private colleges do the same—for example, Dartmouth, Harvard, Princeton, and Stanford.

The number of excellent colleges not requiring the SAT Essay, though, is long and getting longer. Compass expects even more colleges to drop the essay requirement for the classes of 2018 and 2019. Policies are typically finalized in late spring or during the summer.

Should I skip the essay entirely?

A common question regarding SAT scores is whether the whole mess can be avoided by skipping the essay. After all, if only about 10% of colleges are requiring the section, is it really that important? Despite serious misgivings about the test and the ways scores are interpreted, Compass still recommends that most students take the essay unless they are certain that they will not be applying to any of the colleges requiring or recommending it. Nationally, about 70% of students choose to take the essay on at least one SAT administration. When looking at higher scoring segments, that quickly rises to 85–90%. Almost all Compass students take the SAT Essay at least once to insure that they do not miss out on educational opportunities.

Should I prepare for the SAT Essay?

Most Compass students decide to do some preparation for the essay, because taking any part of a test “cold” can be an unpleasant experience, and students want to avoid feeling like a retake is necessary. In addition to practicing exercises and tests, most students can perform well enough on the SAT Essay after 1–2 hours of tutoring. Students taking a Compass practice SAT will also receive a scored essay. Students interested in essay writing tips for the SAT can refer to Compass blog posts on the difference between the ACT and SAT tasks  and the use of first person on the essays .

Will I be able to see my essay?

Yes. ACT makes it difficult to obtain a copy of your Writing essay, but College Board includes it as part of your online report.

Will colleges have access to my essay? Even if they don’t require it?

Yes, colleges are provided with student essays. We know of very few circumstances where SAT Essay reading is regularly conducted. Colleges that do not require the SAT Essay fall into the “consider” and “do not consider” camps. Schools do not always list this policy on their website or in their application materials, so it is hard to have a comprehensive list. We recommend contacting colleges for more information. In general, the essay will have little to no impact at colleges that do not require or recommend it.

Is the SAT Essay a reason to take the ACT instead?

Almost all colleges that require the SAT Essay require Writing for ACT-takers. The essays are very different on the two tests, but neither can be said to be universally “easier” or “harder.” Compass recommends that the primary sections of the tests determine your planning. Compass’ content experts have also written a piece on how to attack the ACT essay .

Key links in this post:

ACT and SAT essay requirements ACT Writing scores explained Comparing ACT and SAT essay tasks The use of first person in ACT and SAT essays Understanding the “audience and purpose” of the ACT essay Compass proctored practice testing for the ACT, SAT, and Subject Tests

About Art Sawyer

Art graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University, where he was the top-ranked liberal arts student in his class. Art pioneered the one-on-one approach to test prep in California in 1989 and co-founded Compass Education Group in 2004 in order to bring the best ideas and tutors into students' homes and computers. Although he has attained perfect scores on all flavors of the SAT and ACT, he is routinely beaten in backgammon.

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Hi! I’m a high school junior who took the October and November SATs. I got a 1500 on October and then retook it to get a 1590 in November. I’m very happy with my score, but my essays are troubling me. I got a 6-4-6 in October and thought I would improve in November, but I got a 6-3-6. I really cannot improve my actual SAT score, but I don’t understand the essay. I’ve always been a good writer and have consistently been praised for it in English class and outside of class. Is this essay score indicative of my writing skill? And will this essay hurt my chances at Ivy League and other top tier schools? None of the schools I plan on applying to require it, but, since I have to submit it, will it hurt my chances? Thank you so much.

Maya, The essay is becoming increasingly irrelevant. Honestly, a 6-4-6 is a fine score and will not hurt your chances for admission. It’s something of an odd writing task, so I wouldn’t worry that it doesn’t match your writing skills elsewhere.

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SAT Scores by State 2024

The SAT is a standardized test widely used for college admissions. The SAT was originally called the Scholastic Aptitude Test and was later called the Scholastic Assessment Test. The exam is owned, developed, and published by the College Board. The exam was started in 1926 and has been used for 94 years for college and university undergraduate program admissions.

The SAT comprises three parts: Mathematics, Critical Reading and Writing, and an optional SAT Essay section. The exam takes about three hours to complete plus 50 minutes for the essay. The Mathematics and Critical Reading and Writing sections are scored on a scale of 200 to 800 points, combining to give a total score of 400 to 1600. Essays are scored on a scale of 2-8 on each of the three criteria, totaling a score between 6 and 24.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many SATs were canceled for thousands of students, and future SATs will have very limited capacity to meet social distancing guidelines. Additionally, college admissions are trying to be as flexible as possible for students who have had their exams canceled.

In addition to college admissions, SAT scores can compare school districts' performance and evaluate state educational programs. Several factors affect SAT scores. These include:

• Educational achievement levels: instruction and institutional factors, such as teacher-to-student ratios, affect students' performance in school and on the SAT.
• Cultural factors: race, ethnicity, and culture can impact test scores for a few reasons, such as the attitude and lower expectations of minority group test-takers.
• Socioeconomic status: socioeconomic status can affect a student's regular attendance in school and the ability to buy practice and study materials for the SAT.
• Psychological factors: cognitive development factors (such as long-term memory) can impact one's ability to learn and retain information, while psychological disorders, such as anxiety or ADHD, could hinder one's ability to perform well.

SAT Scores by State

According to the College Board, the average SAT score in 2022 was 1050. Participation rates ranged from 1% in Mississippi and North Dakota to 100% in the District of Columbia Lower participation rates in some states can be for a few reasons, including that more students may opt to take the ACT and that only the highest-performing, most prepared students take the SAT. Because cultural and socioeconomic factors and the quality of schools vary greatly between districts and states, average SAT scores vary greatly.

The following ten states had the highest average SAT scores: Wisconsin (1252), Wyoming (1244), Kansas (1238), Utah (1233), Mississippi (1226), Minnesota (1225), Nebraska (1222), Kentucky (1219), South Dakota (1219), and North Dakota (1212). Other states with average scores over 1200 include Montana , Tennessee , and Missouri . All thirteen of these states have participation rates between 1% and 6%, most likely indicating that only the highest-performing students took the SAT in 2022.

The following ten states had the lowest SAT scores: West Virginia (938), Oklahoma (951), Delaware (968), Idaho (968), Rhode Island (971), New Mexico (976), Illinois (981), Florida (983), the District of Columbia (985), and Michigan (1000). Participation rates were much higher among these states, with most states having 84% to 100% participation, except for Oklahoma, which had 17%, New Mexico with 42%, and Delaware with 65%.

• EBRW is an abbreviation for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, one of the two halves of the SAT test (Math being the other)
• The average combined SAT score in 2022 was 1050 out of a possible 1600.
• Average SAT scores are often significantly impacted by the percentage of students who take the SATs in each state. For example, Wisconsin has the highest average SAT score in the country, but only 2% of students (likely many of the state's brightest students) take the SAT exam. By comparison, New Hampshire has exactly average scores, but a full 81% of all students take the SATs.

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June 1, 2024

AP Score Release Dates

Advanced Placement exams , important criteria in the highly selective college admissions process, are administered each school year in May, but the results are released later. Indeed, students typically have to wait until early July to find out how they scored on the exams. But it’s understandable because free-response questions, a feature of certain AP exams , take some time to grade. So when will AP scores come out this year?

When are AP Scores Released?

For students who took AP exams in May 2024, The College Board, the maker of the AP exams, will release scores beginning on July 5th, 2024. *** VERIFY THIS DATE BEFORE 2024 PUBLICATION ***

AP Exams Are Historically Released Consistently Beginning on July 5th

Last year, The College Board began releasing the May 2023 exam scores on July 5th . Starting on this date, students could log into their College Board accounts to view their results.

In 2022, The College Board also began releasing AP exams on July 5th. So The College Board tends to release AP scores around the same date each year. The organization is a creature of habit.

U.S.-Based AP Test-Takers Receive Results Before International Test-Takers

But it’s not as though all AP exams are published simultaneously on the release day. On the contrary, The College Board, more or less, typically releases test results from administrations on the U.S.’s East Coast first, then the middle of the country, followed by the West Coast. International test-takers tend to get their AP results after that, typically a few days after the first results are uploaded on The College Board’s website.

Assistance Prepping for AP Exams

If your child is hoping to get a head start prepping for an AP exam to be administered next May, fill out Ivy Coach ’s consultation form , and we’ll be in touch to discuss our tutoring services. And remember, students can often still take AP exams even if their high school doesn’t offer the corresponding AP courses. They just have to tell their school counseling office to order the exams in the fall. While high schools technically have the right to refuse to allow a student to take an exam, few high schools will push back.

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Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, sat test dates: full guide to choosing (2023, 2024).

SAT Logistics , SAT General Info

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 2023-2024. 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 2023-2024

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 2023 and 2024 test dates. 

We've listed international test dates in separate tables since the registration deadlines are different. These dates are all administered digitally.

SAT Test Dates and Deadlines (2023)

The following dates are confirmed by the College Board . The score release dates are projections and those for the international tests (now digital) are especially prone to change.

SAT Test Dates 2023 (US)

*All dates with an asterisk are projections and not yet confirmed by The College Board.

SAT Test Dates 2023 (International)

Sat test dates and deadlines (2024).

Some of the following dates are confirmed  by the College Board . However, the late registration score release dates are projections and subject to change. Starting with the March 2024 test date, all SATs will be administered digitally .

SAT Test Dates 2024 (US)

Sat test dates 2024 (international).

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.

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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!

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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🥎 WCWS action continues

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⏩ next: sunday's slate.

Here's a look at tomorrow's slate of WCWS games : June 2

• Game 9 :  Alabama vs. UCLA, 3 p.m. | ABC
• Game 10 :  Stanford vs. Florida, 7 p.m. | ESPN2

🏆 Texas advances to semis

 The Longhorns shut out Florida 10-0 through 5️⃣ innings. Next up - semifinals.

DON'T MESS WITH TEXAS 🤘 (1) @TexasSoftball advances to the National Semifinals after taking down (4) Florida, 10-0 (5 inn.). #WCWS pic.twitter.com/Aq9usmZWzH — NCAA Softball (@NCAASoftball) June 2, 2024

💥 Texas adds another

 Katie Stewart put her power on full display with a 3-run home run! Longhorns lead 9-0

ANOTHER ONE 😱🚀 #WCWS x 🎥 ESPN / @TexasSoftball pic.twitter.com/XRU1pNqCtf — NCAA Softball (@NCAASoftball) June 2, 2024

☄️ Horns continue to stride

Mia Scott launches a solo home run to center field, making it a 6-0 lead for Texas 😳

WAY BACK AND GONE 👋 #WCWS x 🎥 ESPN / @TexasSoftball pic.twitter.com/FFjAmA1l5C — NCAA Softball (@NCAASoftball) June 2, 2024

😳Florida escapes the bottom of the third

Up to bat ⤵️ #GoGators pic.twitter.com/uWeAnMWYHK — Gators Softball (@GatorsSB) June 1, 2024

5️⃣ runs in the first for Texas

3-RUN HOME RUN AND THE LONGHORNS ARE ON FIRE 🔥 #WCWS x 🎥 ESPN / @TexasSoftball pic.twitter.com/48Y1tzTpXu — NCAA Softball (@NCAASoftball) June 1, 2024

🥎 Texas strikes first

Viviana Martinez drives in Bella Dayton in bottom of the first to put the Longhorns up 1-0 🤘

The Longhorns strike fast❗️⚡️ #WCWS x 🎥 ESPN / @TexasSoftball pic.twitter.com/nZBMjgkte9 — NCAA Softball (@NCAASoftball) June 1, 2024

👀 Lineup cards for Florida vs. Texas

First pitch is set for 7 p.m. ET on ESPN.

🥎 Oklahoma takes down UCLA 1-0 behind Kelly Maxwell gem

Sooners advance to the semifinals needing only the Tiare Jennings solo home run as Maxwell strikes out 11 in a complete game 💎

SOONERS ➡️ SEMIS (2) @OU_Softball defeats (6) UCLA, 1-0, to advance to the National Semifinals on Monday. #WCWS pic.twitter.com/ocO0RDR0n5 — NCAA Softball (@NCAASoftball) June 1, 2024

💪 Oklahoma's Kelly Maxwell is locked in on the mound

4⃣ scoreless frames from Kelly! ↓4 | OU 1, UCLA 0 #ChampionshipMindset pic.twitter.com/rH6SzMubPb — Oklahoma Softball (@OU_Softball) June 1, 2024

🥎 Oklahoma breaks the stalemate

1-0, Sooners. @_tiarejennings X @ABC pic.twitter.com/CR90VmEfeR — Oklahoma Softball (@OU_Softball) June 1, 2024

👀 Starting lineups are in for UCLA vs. Oklahoma

First pitch is set for 3:15 p.m. ET on ABC.

🥎 Stanford, Alabama survive elimination

Stanford run-ruled Oklahoma State, 8-0, and Alabama survived against Duke, 2-1, to avoid elimination and advance in the WCWS. Here's a look at Saturday's action in the winner's bracket:

• Game 7 :  UCLA vs. Oklahoma, 3 p.m. ET | ABC
• Game 8 :  Texas vs. Florida, 7 p.m. | ESPN

➡️  Click or tap here for the full bracket

🌲 Stanford continues to surge

Ava Gall helps increase the Cardinal lead to 5-0 in the top of the fifth 🖐️

Ava Gall coming up clutch again! Make it 5-0 Cardinal! #GoStanford x #WCWS pic.twitter.com/wQI7ElRKzf — Stanford Softball (@StanfordSball) June 1, 2024

4️⃣ Cardinal brings in fourth run

Kaitlyn Lim notches another solo home run for the 4-0 Stanford advantage 😱

🗣️ "The power surge is real for the Stanford Cardinal!" 💪 #WCWS x 🎥 ESPN / @StanfordSball pic.twitter.com/s0kXHKo5jR — NCAA Softball (@NCAASoftball) June 1, 2024