How to Register for the SAT Online: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025–2026
Getting ready for the SAT starts with one important step: online registration. Registering may seem straightforward, but a few key details—like uploading the right photo, securing your preferred test center, or applying a fee waiver—can make a huge difference.
This guide covers everything you need for a seamless registration process and a stress-free start to your SAT journey.
Why Choose Online SAT Registration?
The College Board’s online registration system offers:
- Convenience & Speed: Complete the process in about 30 minutes
- Early access: Register for all 2025–26 test dates, including August 2025 through June 2026
- Full control: Select your test date, test center, device, photo upload, and optional services all in one place
Step 1: Create a College Board Account
- Visit the College Board website and sign up for a free account.
- Use your legal name—exactly as it appears on your photo ID
- For homeschooled students, enter high school code 970000
This account becomes your hub for SAT registration, score reports, and prep tools.
Step 2: Pick Your Test Date & Center
- View available Saturday dates: August 23, Sept 13, Oct 4, Nov 8, Dec 6, Mar 14, May 2, and June 6 in the 2025–26 cycle
- Use the Test Center Search tool to find nearby locations—and reserve seats early, especially for popular dates
- Friday & Sunday options are offered for religious observance on most dates.
Step 3: Upload Your Photo & Fill Out Your Info
- You’ll need a recent, high-quality photo—head and shoulders facing the camera, no filters or digital alterations.
- Provide basic info: name, birthdate, grade, ID details, and preferred first name.
- If you’re borrowing a device from College Board, register at least 30 days before test day.
Step 4: Select Device & Upload ID
- Choose whether you’ll bring your own device (Windows/Mac/Chromebook/iPad) or borrow one from College Board SAT Suite.
- Make sure to download the Bluebook app well before test day. Your ID must match your legal name and photo
Step 5: Pay Fees or Use a Fee Waiver
- Standard SAT fee is $60 (U.S.)
- Late registration (if you miss the regular deadline) adds a $30–34 fee
- Enter a valid fee waiver code during registration to bypass the fees
Step 6: Add Optional Services
- Student Search Service: Let colleges and scholarships contact you.
- Answer Service or Practice Materials (paper-based SAT only): Typically $16–30 extra .
- Avoid extras you don’t need—save money for prep instead.
Step 7: Review, Confirm & Finish
- Confirm details match your ID exactly—errors can cause test denial.
- Registration takes 30–40 minutes; you can save unfinished forms and return later
- Upon payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Your admission ticket becomes available in Bluebook about 5 days before test day
🗓️ Key Deadlines to Remember
| Test Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration |
|---|---|---|
| Aug 23, 2025 | Aug 8 | Aug 12 |
| Sept 13, 2025 | Aug 29 | Sept 2 |
| … (Others) | Dates listed above | … |
Deadlines close at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Troubleshooting & Tips
- Home-schooled? Enter code 970000 for school info SAT Suite.
- Forgot your password? Use email recovery before registering.
- Need to change date or center? Do it before the late deadline to avoid extra $25+ fees
- Want all devices and photo uploaded early? Do it at least 30 days before test day
- Booking early helps secure preferred centers—they fill fast in urban areas
Online SAT Registration
Online SAT registration is quick and convenient when you know what to anticipate. Here are your takeaways:
- Set up your College Board account first.
- Register well in advance of deadlines.
- Use a high-quality ID photo and verify your personal info.
- Choose the right device option and get the Bluebook app early.
- Pay fees or apply a fee waiver.
- Save time—skip extras you don’t need.
Master these steps, and you’ll breeze through registration and get a smooth start to your SAT prep journey. Get ready, score high, and open the door to college opportunities!