How to Check for SAT Test Center Closings: What Every Student Should Know
Preparing for the SAT involves careful planning, and one critical step is ensuring your test center will be open on test day. Unexpected test center closings can disrupt your plans, cause stress, and lead to rescheduling challenges.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to check for SAT test center closings, why it’s important, and what to do if your center is closed.
Why Checking Test Center Closings Matters
Test centers may close unexpectedly due to weather events, health emergencies, power outages, or other unforeseen circumstances. Missing this information can mean wasted travel time and missed testing opportunities, which is especially stressful given limited makeup test dates.
By staying informed, you can avoid surprises and plan accordingly.
When and Where to Check for Closings
Official Updates from the College Board
The College Board is the official administrator of the SAT and provides timely updates on test center status. They update their test center closings information regularly starting the week before the test and continue through test day.
For the most accurate information:
- Check the status the night before your test.
- Check again the morning of your test before heading out.
How to Check Your Test Center Status
- Locate Your Test Center Code and Name: You’ll need your test center code or name — this was provided when you registered.
- Use the College Board’s Test Center Closings Tool: Input your test center information to see if it’s open or closed.
- Review Instructions if Closed: If your center is closed, you’ll find details on makeup test dates and next steps.
What To Do If Your Test Center Is Closed
- Look for Makeup Test Dates: The College Board usually schedules makeup dates soon after the main test day for affected students.
- Contact Your School or Test Center: They can provide support and guidance on rescheduling.
- Consider Alternate Test Centers: Depending on availability, you might be able to take the test at a different location.
- Stay Updated: Closings can change, so monitor the official channels regularly.
Tips for Test Day Preparedness
- Set reminders to check your test center status before the test day.
- Have the contact information of your test center and school counselor ready.
- Plan your travel with extra time in case of unexpected issues.
- Know the location of nearby alternate test centers.