SAT Pricing and Fees: Everything You Need to Know
Planning to take the SAT? Whether you’re registering for the first time or planning to retake the test, understanding the SAT pricing and fee structure is an important step in your college prep journey. This guide breaks down the full costs associated with the SAT in 2025 — including test registration, optional services, additional score reports, and fee waivers — so you can plan ahead and avoid surprises.
Let’s dive into the complete SAT pricing and fees you should be aware of before scheduling your test.
SAT Test Registration Fees (2025)
As of 2025, the basic SAT registration fee is:
- $60 – This includes taking the full SAT (Reading and Writing section + Math section).
This fee covers the digital SAT, which is now the standard format for both U.S. and international test-takers.
Additional SAT Fees (Optional and Situational Costs)
Besides the base fee, there are several optional or situational charges you might incur:
- Late Registration Fee
- $30 – Charged if you register after the regular deadline.
- Waitlist Fee(only available for limited circumstances)
- $53 – If you’re admitted to a test center on test day without prior registration (only applies to weekend tests).
- Change Fee
- $25 – Applies if you change your test date or test center after registration.
- Additional Score Report Fee
- $14 per report – After your first four free score sends, each additional score report costs $14.
- Rush Order Fee
- $31 – Ensures your SAT scores are delivered to colleges within 1–4 business days.
- Archived Score Retrieval
- $31 – If you need to retrieve and send SAT scores from past years (archived records).
- Scores by Phone
- $15 per call – To receive your scores via phone (not available in all countries).
SAT International Testing Fees
If you’re taking the SAT outside the U.S., you’ll need to pay the base fee of $60, plus a regional fee:
| Region | Additional Fee |
|---|---|
| Africa | $55 |
| East Asia/Pacific | $53 |
| Europe and Eurasia | $53 |
| Latin America | $38 |
| Middle East | $47 |
| South and Central Asia | $49 |
| Canada | $30 |
Note: International fees may change, so always check the official SAT website for updates specific to your test date and location.
SAT Subject Tests – No Longer Offered
In case you’re wondering: the SAT Subject Tests were discontinued by College Board in 2021. You no longer need to pay or plan for these additional tests.
Fee Waivers for Eligible Students
College Board provides SAT fee waivers to students who meet certain financial eligibility criteria. If you qualify, a fee waiver can help cover:
- The full SAT registration fee (two free SATs)
- Unlimited free score sends
- No late registration or change fees
- Free access to CSS Profile for college financial aid
- Free college application fee waivers at many participating schools
Who qualifies for a fee waiver? You may be eligible if you:
- Are enrolled in or eligible for the National School Lunch Program
- Have a family income that meets USDA Food and Nutrition guidelines
- Are enrolled in a government program for low-income families
- Live in public housing or are homeless/foster youth
How to get a fee waiver:
Ask your school counselor for a College Board SAT Fee Waiver code.
Tips to Avoid Unnecessary SAT Fees
- Register early – Avoid late registration and change fees by signing up on time.
- Use your four free score sends wisely – Send scores to your top schools during registration.
- Avoid unnecessary test date changes – Confirm your availability before choosing a test date.
- Check college score policies – Some schools require all scores; others allow Score Choice.
- Request a fee waiver if eligible – Don’t miss out on savings if you qualify.
Total SAT Cost Estimates (Examples)
Here are a few examples to help you understand the total cost based on different scenarios:
- U.S. Student, no extras: $60
- International Student (Asia): $60 + $53 = $113
- U.S. Student + late registration: $60 + $30 = $90
- Sending scores to 6 colleges: $60 + (2 x $14) = $88
- Archived score retrieval and rush: $31 + $31 = $62
Is the SAT Worth the Cost?
While the SAT has a cost, it can offer long-term value in the form of:
- College admissions eligibility
- Scholarship opportunities
- Merit-based aid offers
- Application advantages for test-optional schools
Additionally, low-income students can take the test for free and receive extra benefits through College Board fee waivers.
SAT Pricing and Fees: Plan Ahead and Save
Understanding the SAT pricing and fee schedule can help you avoid last-minute costs and ensure your college prep journey stays on track. Be mindful of deadlines, use your free score reports strategically, and take advantage of waivers if you qualify.
Ready to register or need help preparing? Check out our SAT study guides, test day checklists, and digital practice test resources to boost your confidence and scores.