The college admissions process can feel like a series of deadlines to be met. Few of these deadlines are as critical as scheduling the SAT if you decide to take a standardized test.

Below are the latest dates from the College Board for 2022-2023. Register here.

When to take the SAT?

Having standardized test scores finalized before your senior year of high school is ideal. Having a score that you’re satisfied with before 12th grade means you have a better idea of target colleges, and you’ll be able to spend senior year on actual applications rather than testing.

That’s the ideal situation which isn’t always possible. Consider these other factors as you decide when to take the SAT.

What are the application deadlines for the schools you’re applying to?

Many schools are test-optional, but not all; be sure to check for the most up-to-date requirements for schools on your list. If you’re applying Early Decision or Early Action, these deadlines could be earlier than expected.

Even if a school doesn’t require submission of SAT scores, their institutional scholarships might. These scholarships often have deadlines in the fall, maybe even earlier than the application deadlines. Allow enough time to study, take practice tests, take an official test, and submit your scores to meet the deadlines.

Give yourself time to take practice tests. Below are several resources to help you prepare:

The College Board offers ten free SAT practice tests that can be downloaded and printed. Along with the answer sheet, the answer explanations are included.

Kahn Academy has partnered with The College Board to offer free interactive practice plans on diagnostic tests or your previous PSAT or SAT results. Kahn Academy has the option for online practice tests and quizzes.

There are several study guides to choose from, be sure that they include full-length practice tests with answer keys.

How many times to take the SAT?

A good strategy is to take a practice test to become familiar with the type of questions and give yourself a baseline score. Your studying strategy can then focus on areas you want to improve.

Pro Tips

•  If you need accommodations for the SAT, it may take up to seven weeks once the College Board receives all documentation. Visit the College Board Accommodations site for additional information.
• When taking a practice test, try to make the experience as close as possible to what it will be on the official test day. Find a quiet spot where you won’t be distracted, ensure you understand the instructions, and follow the time limits for each section. 
• There are a handful of schools that are test blind. Test blind means they will not look at standardized test scores (SAT or ACT). An example is the University of California system, which will not consider SAT or ACT scores for admissions or scholarships. If you’ll only be applying to these schools, your energy is better focused on other aspects of your application.
• Remember that standardized test scores are only one part of your college application!