SAT Registration for Students Under 13: What Parents Need to Know

Most students take the SAT during high school, typically between grades 10 and 12. However, some younger students—especially those in gifted programs or talent searches—may take the SAT earlier, sometimes as young as middle school. If your child is under 13 and planning to take the SAT, there are special registration rules and privacy protections you need to know.

Why Would a Student Under 13 Take the SAT?

There are a few common reasons why students under 13 might register for the SAT:

  • Participation in academic talent search programs (such as those offered by Duke TIP, Johns Hopkins CTY, or Northwestern NUMATS)
  • Seeking early exposure to college admissions testing
  • Personal academic goals or enrichment plans set by parents or educators

Even though SAT scores from middle school are not used for college admissions, they can be a helpful benchmark for identifying advanced learners and qualifying for enrichment opportunities.

Special SAT Registration Rules for Students Under 13

Because of federal privacy laws—especially the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)—the College Board handles SAT registration for students under 13 differently than for older students.

Online Registration Is Not Allowed

Students under 13 cannot register for the SAT online. Instead, they must register by mail using a paper registration form. This policy is in place to protect the privacy and safety of younger students.

Here’s how to complete the process:

Step-by-Step SAT Registration by Mail

  1. Contact the College Board
    • Call the College Board’s customer service line and request a paper SAT registration form for a student under 13.
    • The form will be mailed to you.
  2. Fill Out the Paper Form
    • You’ll need to provide standard personal details (name, date of birth, address) and select a test date and center.
    • The form may require parent/guardian signatures and proof of identity.
  3. Include Payment
    • The current SAT fee must be paid by check, money order, or credit card (depending on the form’s instructions).
    • Fee waivers are available for eligible low-income students, even under 13.
  4. Mail the Form Before the Deadline
    • The completed form must be mailed and received by the College Board before the regular registration deadline for your chosen test date.

Additional Considerations

  • Students under 13 may not be eligible to use the Bluebook™ app if they are taking the digital SAT. The test may be administered in a paper format for them.
  • Test centers may have limited capacity, and not all locations may accept younger test-takers, so check availability early.

How Scores Are Handled for Younger Students

  • SAT scores earned before high school do not count for college admissions purposes.
  • These scores are used primarily for personal tracking, enrichment programs, or eligibility in academic competitions.
  • Parents can still access full score reports and interpret them using College Board tools.

Preparing Younger Students for the SAT

If your child is under 13 and preparing for the SAT, keep in mind:

  • The SAT is written for high school students, so content may be advanced or unfamiliar.
  • Focus on concept exposure rather than perfection.
  • Use official SAT practice tests and online study tools adapted for younger learners.
  • Encourage regular reading, math problem-solving, and critical thinking exercises.

Benefits of Early SAT Experience

  • Builds familiarity with standardized testing environments
  • Helps identify academic strengths and areas to develop
  • May open doors to gifted programs, scholarships, and advanced classes

That said, it’s important to balance testing with age-appropriate academic and emotional development. Not all students need to take the SAT early, and doing so is completely optional.

Summary: Key Points for Parents

  • Students under 13 must register for the SAT by mail, not online.
  • The College Board requires parental involvement in the process for privacy reasons.
  • These scores are not used for college admission.
  • Early SAT participation is often linked to talent searches or enrichment goals.
  • Preparation should be gentle, encouraging, and age-appropriate.

If you think your child may benefit from taking the SAT early, speak with their teachers or academic advisor. And if you’re ready to register, reach out to the College Board for the proper paperwork and guidance.