College Board International SAT Dates and Deadlines 2025-2026
Complete Guide to SAT Test Dates, Registration Deadlines, and Scheduling
What is the SAT?
The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) is a standardized college admission exam administered by the College Board that assesses students' readiness for college-level work. The digital SAT is accepted by thousands of colleges and universities worldwide as part of their admissions process.
As of 2024, the SAT is administered entirely in digital format, making test scheduling and score reporting more efficient. The exam consists of two main sections: Reading and Writing (combined) and Math, with a total testing time of 2 hours and 14 minutes. Understanding SAT test dates and registration deadlines is crucial for proper college application planning.
💡 Key Insight: The SAT is offered 7 times annually in the U.S. and internationally, providing multiple opportunities for students to achieve their target scores. Strategic test date selection can significantly impact your college application timeline.
Understanding SAT Date Terminology
Navigating SAT scheduling requires understanding specific terminology used by the College Board. This section clarifies all date-related terms to help you plan effectively.
🗓️ Test Date Terms
SAT Test Dates / SAT Date / SAT Exam Dates
These terms refer to the specific Saturdays when the SAT exam is administered. For 2025-2026, test dates include August 23, September 13, October 4, November 8, December 6, March 14, May 2, and June 6.
SAT Schedule / SAT Test Schedule / SAT Exam Schedule
The comprehensive calendar showing all available SAT testing dates throughout the academic year. The schedule applies uniformly to both U.S. and international students.
SAT Administration Dates
Official dates when the College Board conducts SAT testing at authorized test centers worldwide. This is synonymous with "test dates."
Next SAT / Next SAT Date / Upcoming SAT Dates
Refers to the nearest future test date from the current date. As of October 2025, the next upcoming dates are November 8, 2025, and December 6, 2025.
October SAT / October SAT Date / Oct SAT Date
The SAT test scheduled in October, which falls on October 4, 2025. This is a popular date for high school seniors as it allows time to receive scores before early application deadlines.
September SAT / SAT in September / September SAT Test
The September test date (September 13, 2025) is strategically timed at the start of the school year, making it ideal for students who prepared over summer.
📝 Registration Terms
Register for SAT / SAT Registration / SAT Test Registration
The process of officially enrolling for an SAT test date through your College Board account. Registration requires selecting a test date, choosing a test center, and paying applicable fees.
SAT Registration Dates / SAT Sign Up Dates
The timeframe during which students can register for an upcoming SAT. Registration typically opens several months before the test and closes approximately 15 days before the exam date.
SAT Registration Deadlines / SAT Test Deadlines / SAT Exam Deadline
The final date to register for a test at the standard registration fee. All deadlines expire at 11:59 p.m. ET, U.S. Regular deadlines fall approximately 15 days before the test date.
Deadline to Register for SAT / SAT Test Registration Deadline
The cutoff time by which you must complete your registration to take a specific SAT test date without incurring late fees.
Late Registration
Registration that occurs after the standard deadline but before the late deadline (typically 11 days before the test). Late registration incurs additional fees and is subject to test center availability.
Schedule an SAT / SAT Application Dates
The action of selecting and booking your preferred test date and location. This encompasses the entire registration process including date selection, test center choice, and payment.
📊 Score-Related Terms
SAT Score Release Date / SAT Test Score Release Dates
The date when your SAT scores become available in your College Board account. Scores are typically released 13-14 days after the test date.
Time for SAT Exam
The digital SAT takes 2 hours and 14 minutes of actual testing time. Including check-in and breaks, expect to be at the test center for approximately 3 hours.
⚠️ Important: Understanding these terms is essential for navigating the College Board website and planning your test timeline effectively. All dates and deadlines are subject to the College Board's official policies.
SAT Test Dates 2025-2026
The College Board has announced all SAT test dates for the 2025-2026 academic year. Registration is currently open for all dates listed below. These dates apply to both U.S. and international students taking the digital SAT.
| Test Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration Deadline | Score Release Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| August 23, 2025 | August 8, 2025 | August 12, 2025 | September 5, 2025 |
| September 13, 2025 | August 29, 2025 | September 2, 2025 | September 26, 2025 |
| October 4, 2025 | September 19, 2025 | September 23, 2025 | October 17, 2025 |
| November 8, 2025 | October 24, 2025 | October 28, 2025 | November 21, 2025 |
| December 6, 2025 | November 21, 2025 | November 25, 2025 | December 19, 2025 |
| March 14, 2026 | February 27, 2026 | March 3, 2026 | March 27, 2026 |
| May 2, 2026 | April 17, 2026 | April 21, 2026 | May 15, 2026 |
| June 6, 2026 | May 22, 2026 | May 26, 2026 | June 19, 2026 |
✅ Registration Status: Registration is currently open for all 2025-2026 test dates. All deadlines expire at 11:59 p.m. ET, U.S. Students who need to borrow a device from College Board must register at least 30 days before test day.
Anticipated 2026-2027 Test Dates
For students planning ahead, the College Board has announced anticipated test dates for the 2026-2027 academic year:
Fall 2026
- 📅 August 15, 2026
- 📅 September 12, 2026
- 📅 October 3, 2026
- 📅 November 7, 2026
- 📅 December 5, 2026
Spring 2027
- 📅 March 13, 2027
- 📅 May 1, 2027
- 📅 June 5, 2027
Registration Deadlines
Understanding SAT registration deadlines is critical for securing your preferred test date and test center location. The College Board offers three registration windows: regular registration, late registration, and changes/cancellation deadlines.
Types of Registration Deadlines
Regular Registration Deadline
The standard deadline falls approximately 15 days before the test date. Registration at this stage incurs no additional fees beyond the base SAT fee.
Formula: Test Date - 15 days = Regular Registration Deadline
Late Registration Deadline
If you miss the regular deadline, late registration is available until approximately 11 days before the test date. This option requires payment of additional late fees and is subject to test center availability.
Formula: Test Date - 11 days = Late Registration Deadline
Changes and Cancellation Deadline
This is the same as the late registration deadline. Until this date, you can change your test center, add score recipients, or cancel your registration for a partial refund.
Formula: Test Date - 11 days = Changes Deadline
Detailed Registration Timeline
| Test Date | Regular Deadline | Late Deadline | Days to Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| August 23, 2025 | August 8, 2025 | August 12, 2025 | 15 days advance |
| September 13, 2025 | August 29, 2025 | September 2, 2025 | 15 days advance |
| October 4, 2025 | September 19, 2025 | September 23, 2025 | 15 days advance |
| November 8, 2025 | October 24, 2025 | October 28, 2025 | 15 days advance |
| December 6, 2025 | November 21, 2025 | November 25, 2025 | 15 days advance |
⏰ Critical Deadline Information: All deadlines expire at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET), U.S. If you need to borrow a testing device from the College Board, you must register at least 30 days before your test date—much earlier than the standard deadline.
Score Release Dates
SAT scores for the digital exam are typically released approximately 13-14 days after the test date. Understanding score release timelines is essential for planning college applications, especially for early decision and early action deadlines.
2025-2026 Score Release Schedule
| Test Date | Score Release Date | Colleges Receive By | Processing Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| August 23, 2025 | September 5, 2025 | September 19, 2025 | 13 days |
| September 13, 2025 | September 26, 2025 | October 10, 2025 | 13 days |
| October 4, 2025 | October 17, 2025 | October 31, 2025 | 13 days |
| November 8, 2025 | November 21, 2025 | December 5, 2025 | 13 days |
| December 6, 2025 | December 19, 2025 | January 2, 2026 | 13 days |
| March 14, 2026 | March 27, 2026 | April 10, 2026 | 13 days |
| May 2, 2026 | May 15, 2026 | May 29, 2026 | 13 days |
| June 6, 2026 | June 19, 2026 | July 2, 2026 | 13 days |
📊 Score Delivery Timeline: After you receive your scores, colleges receive them within approximately 10 days. Always allow an extra week for colleges to process and integrate your scores into your application file. For early decision/action deadlines, consider taking the SAT at least 4-6 weeks before the application due date.
Important Score Release Information
Multiple-Choice Score Release: Your Reading and Writing and Math section scores are released together on the score release date.
Delayed Scores: Occasionally, individual scores may be delayed for additional review. If your scores aren't available on the release date, check your College Board account for updates.
Score Sending: You can send scores to up to 4 colleges for free when you register or within 9 days after your test date. Additional score sends incur fees.
Timeline Calculation Formulas
Understanding the mathematical relationships between SAT dates helps you plan your test schedule effectively. These formulas are based on College Board's consistent timing patterns.
Registration Deadline Formulas
Regular Registration Deadline Formula
Regular Deadline = Test Date - 15 days
Example: For October 4, 2025 test date
Regular Deadline = October 4 - 15 days = September 19, 2025
Late Registration Deadline Formula
Late Deadline = Test Date - 11 days
Example: For October 4, 2025 test date
Late Deadline = October 4 - 11 days = September 23, 2025
Device Borrower Deadline Formula
Device Borrower Deadline = Test Date - 30 days
Example: For October 4, 2025 test date
Device Borrower Deadline = October 4 - 30 days = September 4, 2025
Score Release Formula
Score Release Date Formula
Score Release Date = Test Date + 13 days
Example: For October 4, 2025 test date
Score Release = October 4 + 13 days = October 17, 2025
College Receipt Formula
College Receipt Date = Score Release Date + 10-14 days
Example: For October 17, 2025 score release
College Receipt = October 17 + 14 days ≈ October 31, 2025
Complete Planning Formula
College Application Deadline Planning
Latest Test Date = Application Deadline - 30 days (minimum)
Example: For a January 1, 2026 college deadline
Latest Safe Test = January 1 - 30 days = December 2 (take December 6 test)
Recommended: Application Deadline - 45 to 60 days for safety buffer
📐 Formula Application: These formulas are consistent across all test dates. However, always verify specific dates on the official College Board website, as occasional variations may occur due to holidays or other factors.
How to Register for the SAT
Registering for the SAT is a straightforward process completed entirely online through your College Board account. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure successful registration.
Create Your College Board Account
Visit collegeboard.org and click "Sign Up" to create your account. You'll need a valid email address, personal information, and your high school details. This account will serve as your portal for all SAT-related activities.
Choose Your Test Date
Log into your account and navigate to "Register for the SAT." Review available test dates and select one that aligns with your preparation timeline and college application deadlines. Consider factors like school schedule, preparation time, and retake possibilities.
Select a Test Center
Use the test center search tool to find locations near you. Enter your ZIP code or city to see available centers. Choose a convenient location, but register early as popular centers fill quickly. You can change your test center later if needed (before the change deadline).
Upload Your Photo
Upload a recent, passport-style photo that meets College Board requirements. This photo will appear on your admission ticket and must match your appearance on test day. Acceptable formats include JPG, JPEG, PNG, and GIF. Photos must be taken within the last 6 months.
Select Score Recipients
Choose up to 4 colleges or scholarship programs to receive your scores for free. You can select recipients when registering or up to 9 days after your test date. Additional score reports incur fees. Use institution codes to ensure correct delivery.
Pay the Registration Fee
Complete payment using a credit card, debit card, or other accepted payment method. If you qualify for a fee waiver, you can register for free. Save your payment confirmation. International students should check for regional pricing and accepted payment methods.
Print Your Admission Ticket
After registration, print your admission ticket from your College Board account. Bring this ticket along with an acceptable photo ID to the test center on test day. Your admission ticket contains your test center location, reporting time, and registration number.
Registration Requirements
📧 Valid Email Address
Required for account creation and receiving important updates
🎓 High School Information
Your current school's CEEB code and graduation year
📸 Recent Photo
Passport-style photo taken within the last 6 months
💳 Payment Method
Credit/debit card or fee waiver documentation
🎯 Pro Registration Tips: Register as early as possible to secure your preferred test center. Check your spam folder for College Board emails. Review all information carefully before submitting—errors can delay processing. Keep your login credentials secure for future access.
How This Guide Works
This comprehensive guide aggregates official information from the College Board to provide students with a centralized resource for understanding SAT test dates, registration deadlines, and planning strategies. Our methodology ensures accuracy and reliability for your test preparation journey.
Information Sources
All dates, deadlines, and policies presented in this guide are sourced directly from official College Board publications and their website at collegeboard.org. We reference the SAT Suite Calendar, registration policies, and score release schedules published by the College Board for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Data Compilation Process
Step 1: Official Data Collection
We extract test dates, registration deadlines, late registration dates, and score release schedules directly from College Board's official calendar and registration pages.
Step 2: Formula Derivation
By analyzing the consistent patterns in College Board's scheduling, we derive mathematical formulas that represent the relationships between test dates, registration deadlines, and score releases.
Step 3: Terminology Standardization
We compile and explain all terminology variations used by students when searching for SAT date information, mapping them to official College Board terminology.
Step 4: Structured Presentation
Information is organized into logical sections with comprehensive tables, timelines, and visual formatting to enhance comprehension and accessibility.
Calculation Methodology
The formulas provided in this guide are derived from consistent patterns observed across multiple testing cycles. The College Board maintains standardized timelines:
- Registration Deadline Pattern: Consistently falls 15 days before the test date
- Late Registration Pattern: Consistently falls 11 days before the test date
- Score Release Pattern: Consistently occurs 13 days after the test date for digital SAT
- College Receipt Timeline: Scores delivered to colleges within 10-14 days of release
🔍 Accuracy Commitment: While we strive for complete accuracy, students should always verify dates on the official College Board website before making registration decisions. The College Board reserves the right to modify dates due to unforeseen circumstances.
Uses of This Guide
This comprehensive SAT dates and deadlines guide serves multiple purposes for students, parents, educators, and college counselors. Understanding how to leverage this information maximizes your test preparation and college application success.
Primary Applications
📅 Test Schedule Planning
Use this guide to strategically select SAT test dates that align with your academic schedule, preparation timeline, and college application deadlines. Plan for multiple test attempts with adequate preparation time between dates.
🎯 Registration Deadline Management
Track registration deadlines to avoid late fees and ensure test center availability. Set reminders based on the deadline formulas to register on time for your target test date.
📊 Score Timeline Calculation
Calculate when your scores will be available and when colleges will receive them. This information is crucial for coordinating with application deadlines, especially for early decision and early action programs.
🏫 College Application Coordination
Align your SAT testing schedule with college application deadlines. Work backwards from application due dates to determine the latest viable test date, accounting for score processing and delivery time.
📈 Retake Strategy Development
Plan multiple test attempts strategically. Identify optimal dates for first attempts and retakes, ensuring sufficient preparation time while meeting application deadlines. Most students benefit from 2-3 test attempts.
🌍 International Student Planning
International students can use this guide to understand that all test dates apply globally. Plan around local holidays, school schedules, and visa application timelines in addition to college deadlines.
Strategic Use Cases
| User Type | How to Use This Guide | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| High School Juniors | Plan first SAT attempt for spring, with fall senior year for retakes | Maximize preparation time and retake opportunities |
| High School Seniors | Identify last viable test dates for early and regular college deadlines | Meet application deadlines without stress |
| Parents | Track deadlines and help students register on time | Support student success through organization |
| School Counselors | Advise students on optimal test timing and registration strategies | Provide informed guidance to large student populations |
| Test Prep Tutors | Design preparation timelines aligned with specific test dates | Optimize study schedules for student readiness |
💡 Maximizing Value: Combine this guide with your SAT preparation strategy to create a comprehensive testing plan. Understanding dates and deadlines removes logistical barriers, allowing you to focus on score improvement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the SAT test dates for 2025-2026?
The SAT test dates for 2025-2026 are August 23, 2025; September 13, 2025; October 4, 2025; November 8, 2025; December 6, 2025; March 14, 2026; May 2, 2026; and June 6, 2026. All dates apply to both U.S. and international students.
When is the SAT registration deadline?
SAT registration deadlines are typically 15 days before the test date. For example, for the October 4, 2025 test, the registration deadline is September 19, 2025. Late registration is available until 11 days before the test date with additional fees. All deadlines expire at 11:59 p.m. ET, U.S.
How long does it take to receive SAT scores?
SAT scores are released approximately 13-14 days after the test date. For example, if you take the SAT on October 4, 2025, scores are released on October 17, 2025. Colleges receive scores within 10 days of the score release date.
Can international students take the SAT on the same dates?
Yes, all SAT test dates and deadlines for 2025-2026 apply to both U.S. and international students. The College Board administers the digital SAT worldwide on the same dates, ensuring consistency for all test-takers globally.
What is the last SAT date for college applications?
The December 6, 2025 SAT is typically the last test date that works for most regular college application deadlines (January 1-15, 2026). Scores from this test are released on December 19, 2025, giving adequate time for college submission. However, some colleges accept January or later scores, so always check with your specific institutions.
What happens if I miss the SAT registration deadline?
If you miss the regular registration deadline, late registration is available worldwide until 11 days before the test date. Additional late registration fees apply, typically $30 more than the standard fee. Late registration is subject to test center availability. All deadlines expire at 11:59 p.m. ET, U.S.
How many times can I take the SAT?
There is no limit to how many times you can take the SAT. Most students take it 2-3 times to achieve their target score. You can take it on any of the 7 available test dates throughout the year. It's recommended to space attempts apart (at least 2-3 months) to allow adequate preparation time between tests.
When should juniors take the SAT?
High school juniors typically take their first SAT in March, May, or June of junior year (spring semester). This timing allows adequate preparation during the school year and provides opportunities for retakes in August, September, or October of senior year if needed, while still meeting college application deadlines.
What is the difference between regular and late registration?
Regular registration closes approximately 15 days before the test date and has no additional fees. Late registration is available until 11 days before the test date but requires an additional $30 fee (subject to change). Late registration is also subject to test center availability, so spaces may be limited.
Can I change my SAT test date after registering?
Yes, you can change your SAT test date, test center, or cancel your registration until the change deadline (11 days before the original test date). Changes require a fee, typically $30. To make changes, log into your College Board account and follow the modification process.
Which SAT date is best for early decision applications?
For early decision/early action applications (typically due November 1-15), the October SAT is ideal. The October 4, 2025 test has scores released on October 17, 2025, providing time for score delivery before early deadlines. Some colleges also accept November scores for early programs, but verify with specific institutions.
Do I need to bring anything on SAT test day?
On test day, you must bring your admission ticket (printed from your College Board account) and an acceptable photo ID (driver's license, passport, or school ID with photo). You'll also need an approved calculator for the Math section, No. 2 pencils, and an eraser. Leave phones and electronic devices in your bag.
Are SAT fee waivers available?
Yes, SAT fee waivers are available for eligible students who demonstrate financial need. Fee waivers cover the cost of registration and provide additional benefits like free score reports to colleges. Students can receive up to two fee waivers. Check with your school counselor for eligibility requirements and application procedures.
How do I find SAT test centers near me?
To find SAT test centers, log into your College Board account during registration and use the test center search feature. Enter your ZIP code or city to see available locations with distances. You can select your preferred center, but register early as popular locations fill quickly. You can change your test center later if needed.
What if I need to borrow a testing device?
If you need to borrow a testing device from the College Board for the digital SAT, you must register at least 30 days before your test date—much earlier than the standard registration deadline. Select the device borrower option during registration. Devices are provided at no additional cost and are distributed at the test center on test day.
Related SAT Resources
Enhance your SAT preparation with these additional resources designed to help you achieve your target score and navigate the college admissions process successfully.
🎯 Score Improvement Guide
Learn proven strategies to achieve a 1500+ score on the SAT with our comprehensive preparation guide.
How to Get a 1500 on the SAT →🏫 College Options
Explore colleges that accept lower SAT scores and find the perfect fit for your academic profile.
Colleges Accepting Low SAT Scores →🧮 SAT Score Calculator
Calculate your SAT score instantly based on the number of correct answers in each section.
SAT Score Calculator →SAT Testing Timeline Strategy
Strategic timing is crucial for SAT success. Use this timeline framework to plan your testing schedule based on your grade level and college application goals.
📚 Junior Year (Class of 2027)
- Fall/Winter: Begin SAT preparation, take practice tests, and identify weak areas
- March 2026: Consider first SAT attempt if well-prepared
- May 2026: Optimal first attempt for most juniors
- June 2026: Alternative spring option before summer break
🎓 Senior Year Fall (Class of 2026)
- August 2025: Early opportunity for score improvement before applications
- September 2025: Good timing for final preparation adjustments
- October 2025: Last test for early decision/action deadlines
- November 2025: Works for some early programs and regular decision
- December 2025: Final test for most regular decision deadlines
⏰ Application Deadline Alignment
- Early Decision/Action (Nov 1-15): Take SAT by October at the latest
- Regular Decision (Jan 1-15): December SAT is typically the last viable option
- Rolling Admissions: Earlier test dates strengthen your application
- Late Applications (Feb-Mar): March 2026 SAT can still be submitted
🎯 Strategic Recommendation: Most successful students take the SAT 2-3 times: once in spring of junior year, and 1-2 times in fall of senior year. This strategy provides multiple opportunities while maintaining adequate preparation time between attempts.
Official Sources
All information in this guide is sourced from official College Board publications. Always verify dates and policies on the official website before making registration decisions.
📚 Official College Board Resources
-
College Board SAT Dates and Deadlines
https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/dates-deadlinesOfficial source for all SAT test dates and registration deadlines
-
SAT Registration Portal
https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registrationRegister for the SAT and manage your test details
-
College Board Main Website
https://www.collegeboard.orgHome page for all College Board services and information
-
SAT Suite Assessment Calendar (PDF)
https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/digital-sat-calendar.pdfDownloadable calendar with all test dates for 2025-2026
⚠️ Important Notice: While this guide provides accurate information based on official College Board sources, policies and dates are subject to change. Always verify current information directly on the College Board website before making registration or planning decisions.
Ready to Register for the SAT?
Now that you understand all SAT dates and deadlines for 2025-2026, take the next step in your college admission journey.





