SAT Dates and Deadlines: Your Ultimate 2025–2026 Guide to Registering on Time

Are you gearing up for the SAT? One of the most important steps in your college admission journey is knowing exactly when to take the SAT and how to meet all registration deadlines.

Missing these crucial dates can delay your plans and cause unnecessary stress. This comprehensive guide covers all the SAT test dates, registration deadlines, late registration periods, and tips to help you stay ahead of the game.

Whether you’re a first-time test taker or retaking the SAT for a higher score, mastering the calendar is essential. Let’s dive in and make sure you never miss a deadline again!

Why SAT Dates and Deadlines Matter

The SAT is offered multiple times a year, but each testing window has strict deadlines. Registering on time is critical for these reasons:

  • Secure your preferred test center: Test centers fill up quickly, especially in popular locations.
  • Avoid late fees: Registering after the deadline usually means paying extra.
  • Get your scores on time: Early registration ensures your scores reach colleges by their application deadlines.
  • Plan your prep schedule effectively: Knowing your test date helps you build a personalized study plan.

Understanding the timeline helps reduce anxiety and puts you in control of your testing journey.

2025–2026 SAT Test Dates and Deadlines

Here are the key SAT dates for the 2025–2026 testing year. Mark your calendar and set reminders to avoid last-minute hassles!

Test DateRegistration DeadlineLate Registration DeadlineScore Release Date
August 23, 2025August 8, 2025August 12, 2025September 5, 2025
September 13, 2025August 29, 2025September 2, 2025September 26, 2025
October 4, 2025September 19, 2025September 23, 2025October 17, 2025
November 8, 2025October 24, 2025October 28, 2025November 20, 2025
December 6, 2025November 21, 2025November 25, 2025December 18, 2025
March 14, 2026February 27, 2026March 3, 2026April 2, 2026
May 2, 2026April 17, 2026April 21, 2026May 21, 2026
June 6, 2026May 22, 2026May 26, 2026June 25, 2026

Note: Deadlines end at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on the specified dates.

How to Register for the SAT

Registration is simple but must be done thoughtfully:

  1. Create a College Board account: This is your portal for SAT registration, score reports, and test resources.
  2. Choose your test date and center: Pick a test date that gives you enough prep time and a convenient location.
  3. Pay the registration fee: Regular registration costs $60 (fees may vary based on your location and test options).
  4. Consider accommodations: If you have a disability or need extra time, apply early for accommodations.
  5. Double-check your info: Ensure your name, birthdate, and other details match your photo ID to avoid test-day problems.

Pro tip: Register as early as possible to get your preferred seat and avoid extra fees.

What Happens If You Miss the Registration Deadline?

If you miss the standard deadline, don’t panic. The College Board offers a late registration period that lasts about a week. However, this comes with a $34 late fee and doesn’t guarantee availability at your preferred test center.

Missing even the late deadline means you’ll have to wait for the next test date. That could delay your college applications or scholarship eligibility, so plan ahead!

Important Tips to Stay on Track

  • Set calendar reminders: Use your phone or planner to remind you a week before deadlines.
  • Register early: Don’t wait until the last minute; test centers fill fast.
  • Know the test day requirements: Bring your admission ticket, valid photo ID, calculator, snacks, and water.
  • Prepare for the digital SAT: The SAT is transitioning to a digital format in many locations starting 2024. Familiarize yourself with the digital testing platform early.
  • Check for test center changes: Sometimes your usual test center may change—verify your location a few days before the test.
  • Keep track of score release dates: So you can send your scores promptly to colleges.

How the SAT Digital Transition Affects Dates

The SAT is evolving. In 2024, the College Board introduced a shorter, digital SAT with adaptive testing, lasting about two hours instead of three. While many test dates remain the same, you’ll want to check if your test will be digital or paper-based.

Taking official digital practice tests is crucial if you plan to take the new format. The College Board offers a free Bluebook app for this purpose.

International Students: SAT Dates and Deadlines

International students have access to most of the same test dates, but it’s important to:

  • Register early due to limited test center spots abroad.
  • Check local deadlines and requirements.
  • Allow for longer score delivery times.

Visit the College Board’s official international SAT page to find the most accurate information.

Stay Ahead, Stay Prepared

Knowing SAT dates and deadlines inside and out is a game-changer. It lets you register stress-free, prep effectively, and perform your best on test day.

Bookmark this page or save the table above to keep track of the important 2025–2026 SAT deadlines. Share this guide with friends and classmates—everyone benefits from knowing when to register.

Remember, your SAT journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Start early, practice consistently, and meet all your deadlines to unlock your college dreams.

Ready to register for the SAT?

Head to the official College Board SAT registration page now and claim your spot for the next available test date!