SAT Test Dates 2026–2027: Complete Schedule, Deadlines & Registration Guide
Every SAT test date for 2026 and 2027, with registration deadlines, late registration fees, score release dates, and tips for choosing the best test date.
SATMock Team
Last updated: 2026-03-16 · SAT prep experts using real College Board data
SAT Test Dates 2026
The College Board offers the SAT six times per year in the United States, and select international dates. Here's the complete 2026 schedule:
| Test Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration | Score Release |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 8, 2026 | February 21, 2026 | March 1, 2026 | March 21, 2026 |
| May 3, 2026 | April 18, 2026 | April 25, 2026 | May 16, 2026 |
| June 7, 2026 | May 22, 2026 | May 30, 2026 | June 20, 2026 |
| August 23, 2026 | August 8, 2026 | August 15, 2026 | September 5, 2026 |
| October 3, 2026 | September 19, 2026 | September 26, 2026 | October 17, 2026 |
| December 5, 2026 | November 21, 2026 | November 28, 2026 | December 19, 2026 |
Dates are based on College Board's typical scheduling pattern. Always verify on collegeboard.org for the most current information.
Registration Fees (2026)
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| SAT Registration | $68 |
| Late Registration | $68 + $34 late fee |
| Change Fee (date/center) | $34 |
| Score Send (each additional) | $14 |
Fee waivers are available for eligible students — ask your school counselor.
SAT Test Dates 2027 (Projected)
College Board typically announces the next year's dates in late summer. Based on historical patterns, projected 2027 dates:
| Test Date (Projected) | Approximate Registration Deadline |
|---|---|
| March 13, 2027 | Late February 2027 |
| May 8, 2027 | Late April 2027 |
| June 5, 2027 | Late May 2027 |
| August 28, 2027 | Early August 2027 |
| October 2, 2027 | Mid-September 2027 |
| December 4, 2027 | Mid-November 2027 |
These are projections based on historical scheduling. Official 2027 dates will be confirmed by College Board.
How to Choose the Best SAT Test Date
For Juniors (Class of 2027)
Best dates: March, May, or June 2026
-Take it for the first time in spring of junior year
-You'll have completed most of the math you need in school
-Leaves time to retake in August or October if needed
-College application deadlines are typically January 1, so October/December are your last chances
For Seniors (Class of 2026)
Last practical dates: October or December 2026
-October scores arrive in time for most regular decision deadlines
-December is cutting it close — some schools won't accept December scores
-Check each college's policy before relying on December
For Sophomores
Wait. Most sophomores haven't finished Algebra II, which covers content tested on the SAT. Unless you're significantly ahead in math, waiting until spring of junior year gives you a natural advantage.
How Many Times Should You Take the SAT?
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The sweet spot for most students is 2-3 times:
-First attempt: Establishes your baseline. Now you know the real test experience.
-Second attempt: Average improvement is ~40 points. You know what to expect and where to focus.
-Third attempt: Diminishing returns start here. Only take a third time if you have a specific strategy for improvement.
Most colleges use superscoring — they take your highest section scores across all attempts and combine them. This means every attempt can only help, never hurt.
Prep Timeline by Test Date
If your SAT is in 8+ weeks
You have time for a comprehensive study plan:
-Weeks 1-2: Take a diagnostic to identify weak areas. Try a free 10-question score quiz to get a quick baseline.
-Weeks 3-6: Focus on your 2-3 weakest areas with targeted practice
-Weeks 7-8: Take 2-3 full-length mock tests under real conditions
-Final week: Light review only — don't cram
If your SAT is in 2-4 weeks
Focus on high-impact areas only:
-Take a diagnostic immediately to find your weakest domain
-Drill grammar rules (fastest area to improve)
-Take at least 1 full-length mock test under timed conditions
-Review every wrong answer — understand the pattern
If your SAT is next week
Don't panic. At this point:
-Take 1 mock test to calibrate your pacing
-Review the test format so nothing surprises you
-Get good sleep the 3 nights before the test (not just the night before)
-Trust your preparation
Score Release: When Do You Get Your SAT Scores?
SAT scores are typically released 13 days after the test date, starting at 6 AM Eastern.
Scores come in two waves:
-First wave (6-8 AM ET on release day): Most students get scores
-Second wave (later that day or within a few days): Remaining students
If your scores are delayed beyond a week of the expected release date, contact College Board directly.
What You'll See in Your Score Report
-Total score: 400-1600
-Section scores: Reading & Writing (200-800) and Math (200-800)
-Test percentiles: How you compare to all test-takers
-Benchmark scores: Whether you're on track for college readiness
Registration Tips
1. Register early — popular test centers fill up, especially for October and March dates
2. Choose a familiar location — if your own school is a test center, register there
3. Upload your photo early — you need an approved photo for test day admission
4. Print your admission ticket the night before — don't leave it to test morning
5. Know what to bring: admission ticket, acceptable photo ID, No. 2 pencils (for grid-ins), approved calculator, snacks for the break
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the next SAT test date?
The SAT is offered six times per year: typically in March, May, June, August, October, and December. Check collegeboard.org for the next upcoming date and registration deadline.
How much does the SAT cost in 2026?
The SAT registration fee is $68. Late registration adds a $34 fee. Fee waivers are available for eligible students through school counselors.
When is the registration deadline for the SAT?
Registration deadlines are typically about 2-3 weeks before the test date. Late registration closes about 1 week before the test with an additional $34 fee.
Can I take the SAT more than once?
Yes. Most students take the SAT 2-3 times. Most colleges superscore — they combine your highest section scores across all attempts — so retaking can only help.
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