🗓️ SAT Test Dates for 2025–2026: Your Ultimate College Prep Roadmap
If you’re planning to take the SAT in the 2025–2026 school year, knowing the upcoming test dates and deadlines is essential for building a strong prep plan—and scoring high. Whether you’re aiming for early admission, maximizing score growth, or planning multiple sittings, this guide has everything you need.
Why SAT Dates Matter
- Secure your preferred test center: Early registration ensures you get a seat in your area.
- Plan your prep schedule: Working backwards from test dates helps optimize study time.
- Meet college deadlines: Align test dates with early action, rolling, and scholarship timelines.
Official SAT Dates and Deadlines (2025–2026)
All dates and deadlines apply to both U.S. domestic and international students on weekend test administrations.
| Test Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration Ends | Score Release (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| August 23, 2025 | August 8 | August 12 | September 5, 2025 |
| September 13, 2025 | August 29 | September 2 | September 26, 2025 |
| October 4, 2025 | September 19 | September 23 | October 17, 2025 |
| November 8, 2025 | October 24 | October 28 | November 21, 2025 |
| December 6, 2025 | November 21 | November 25 | December 19, 2025 |
| March 14, 2026 | February 27 | March 3 | March 27, 2026 |
| May 2, 2026 | April 17 | April 21 | May 15, 2026 |
| June 6, 2026 | May 22 | May 26 | June 19–22, 2026 |
Extra note: Sunday options are typically available after each Saturday test, accommodating religious observance.
Planning Your Test Strategy
1. Choose Your First Test Smartly
Taking your first SAT early (e.g., August or October 2025) gives you enough time to retake and improve before early application deadlines.
2. Allow for Multiple Attempts
Most students benefit from two test opportunities: a “practice run” and a “go-for-it” test. The May and June 2026 dates are ideal for this strategy.
3. Use Late Registration Carefully
If you’re pressed for time, late registration gives you flexibility—just be sure to meet the late deadlines listed above.
In-School (School Day) Testing Variants
Beyond weekend tests, many high schools offer SAT School Day, which falls into these windows:
- Fall: October 1–31, 2025
- Spring: March 2–April 30, 2026
This format can be convenient and less stressful, but registration is handled by schools—check with your counselor.
International Testing Considerations
International students take the same Saturday dates, though availability may vary. Always register early, as international test centers fill up faster.
How to Build Your SAT Prep Timeline
- Set target test dates (e.g., October 2025 & May 2026)
- Calculate back: Prep takes ~3 months for most students
- Create a weekly study schedule using official resources like Khan Academy and Bluebook™ practice
- Plan full-length practice tests about 2–3 weeks before each official test date
- Reserve extra time for unexpected changes, late registration, and score reviews
Why You Should Register Early
- Lock in your preferred test center
- Avoid late registration fees
- Make room for accommodations or device loans—especially for digital SAT users, who must apply at least 30 days before the test.
What Happens After the Test
- Score release occurs roughly 2–3 weeks after each test, with results typically available online the morning of the release date
- Send scores to colleges—4 free score reports if sent within 9 days of your test date
- If scores miss your expectations, use later test dates (May/June 2026) for a retake
Final Tips for SAT Success
- Balance ambition and realism: Schedule tests that fit your prep readiness
- Stay mobile-device savvy: The digital SAT requires early computer download and practice
- Double-check deadlines frequently—College Board occasionally updates schedules
- Consider School-Day testing if it’s offered in your district—it provides a comfortable environment
Unlock Your College Journey with SAT Dates
Selecting the right SAT test dates is the foundation of a strong college prep plan. This roadmap gives you clear timelines, strategic tips, and confidence-building guidance to make your test season a success.
Keep bookmarks on this post and your calendar, and share it with friends who need help planning their SAT journey. For even more prep tools—practice plans, test-day strategies, and score analysis—explore the rest of our blog.