SAT: Additional Registration Options – Everything You Need to Know Before You Sign Up

When it comes to the SAT, most students know the basics—choose a test date, register online, and show up on test day. But what many don’t realize is that the College Board offers a range of additional registration options that can make a huge difference depending on your situation.

Whether you need accommodations, are testing internationally, or missed a deadline, understanding all the available SAT registration options can help you avoid stress and ensure you’re fully prepared.

What Are SAT Additional Registration Options?

While the standard SAT registration process is fairly straightforward, additional options allow for more flexibility and accessibility. These options cover:

  • Testing with accommodations
  • Waitlist registration
  • Standby testing (no longer available)
  • Sunday testing (for religious reasons)
  • International testing
  • Changing your registration
  • Late registration
  • Fee waivers

Let’s dive into each one to see how it works and whether it applies to you.

1. Testing with Accommodations

If you have a documented disability, you may be eligible for testing accommodations. These include extra time, a computer for the essay, extended breaks, or a reader/scribe.

To qualify, you must apply through the College Board’s Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD). The process can take a few weeks, so apply early—ideally during your sophomore or junior year.

Once your accommodations are approved, they’ll apply to all College Board tests, including the PSAT and AP Exams.

Common accommodations include:

  • Time and a half (50% extended time)
  • Double time (100%)
  • Extra breaks
  • Use of a calculator on non-calculator sections
  • Large print or Braille test booklets

2. Sunday Testing

If your religious beliefs prevent you from taking the SAT on a Saturday, the College Board offers Sunday testing, usually held the day after the standard Saturday test date.

You’ll need to request Sunday testing during registration, and submit a signed letter from your religious leader. This option ensures all students can test in a way that respects their faith.

3. Waitlist Registration (Now Discontinued)

Previously, the College Board allowed students to join a waitlist if they missed the registration deadline. However, as of 2021, the SAT waitlist system has been discontinued.

Now, if you miss the registration deadline—even the late one—you’ll need to choose a future test date. This makes it even more important to plan ahead and register on time.

4. International Testing Options

Students outside the U.S. can still take the SAT, but not all test dates are available internationally. In fact, the College Board has limited international SAT dates to fall and spring windows, typically in August, October, December, and March.

International students should check:

  • Available test centers in their country
  • Accepted ID documents (passport is often required)
  • Time zone differences
  • Additional fees for international testing

You can register for the international SAT the same way as U.S. students—through your College Board account.

5. Late Registration

If you miss the regular registration deadline, you still have a chance through late registration. This usually closes about 10 days before the test date and includes a late fee (currently around $30).

Late registration can be done online, and you can use the same account and process as regular sign-ups. But remember, test center availability is limited during this window, so act fast.

6. Changing Your Test Date or Center

Plans change. If you need to reschedule your SAT or change your test center location, you can do so—usually for a small fee.

Here’s what you can change:

  • Test Date: Switch to another upcoming date if your schedule changes.
  • Test Center: Choose a different location if your original one isn’t convenient.
  • SAT with Essay: You can add or remove the Essay portion (if it’s available in your area).

These changes can be made online through your College Board account, but must be completed by the change deadline, which is usually about 10 days before the test.

7. SAT Fee Waivers

The SAT isn’t free—but if you’re eligible, you may qualify for a fee waiver. This allows you to take the SAT for free, along with benefits like:

  • Two free SAT registrations
  • Six free score sends to colleges
  • Waived application fees at many universities

To get a waiver, you’ll need to talk to your school counselor, who can help determine if you meet the income requirements.

Fee waivers are a game-changer for low-income students, making SAT prep and college access more equitable.

8. Bulk Registration for Schools or Programs

Some schools or educational programs register students in bulk for the SAT. This is often done for School Day SAT programs, where students take the exam during the school day at no cost to families.

If your school participates in this program, you won’t need to register individually. Just confirm the details with your counselor and prepare like you would for a weekend SAT.

Final Tips: Avoid Last-Minute Surprises

Here are a few quick reminders to make your SAT registration smooth and stress-free:

  • Register early to secure your preferred test center.
  • Apply for accommodations well in advance.
  • Double-check your ID requirements, especially for international students.
  • Know your deadlines—regular, late, and change deadlines vary for each test date.
  • Review your confirmation email carefully to ensure all details are correct.

Conclusion: Know Your Options, Maximize Your Success

The SAT is one of the most important steps in your college journey. By understanding all the additional registration options available, you can ensure that your experience is smooth, fair, and stress-free—no matter your background or situation.

Whether you need extra time, are testing internationally, or qualify for a fee waiver, the College Board has systems in place to support you. All it takes is a bit of planning and knowing your options ahead of time.

So don’t leave it to the last minute—explore your SAT registration options today and set yourself up for test day success.