SAT Exam Dates 2025: Registration Deadlines & Fees

If you're a high school student planning to take the SAT in 2025-26, you’re probably already thinking about test dates, deadlines, and registration details. The SAT is a crucial part of the college application process, and staying on top of the test schedule will help you plan your preparation and applications efficiently.

The SAT is offered seven times a year—August, October, November, December, March, May, and June. If you have religious commitments on Saturdays, don’t worry—Sunday test dates are available as well! And remember, starting in 2024, the SAT has officially gone digital. That means no more paper-based tests—everything will be done on a computer. So, let’s break down everything you need to know about SAT test dates, registration deadlines, fees, and how to get a fee waiver if needed.

SAT Exam Dates & Registration Deadlines for 2025-26

The College Board has announced official SAT test dates for the 2025-26 school year. Check out key registration deadlines, late registration dates, and plan your prep schedule early to secure your preferred test center and avoid late fees.

How to Register for the SAT?

Registering for the SAT is a simple process, but you should plan ahead to avoid last-minute stress. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose Your Test Date – Look at your college application deadlines and decide when you want to take the test.
2. Sign Up Online – Go to the official College Board website and create an account if you don’t already have one.
3. Fill Out Your Information – Enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your photo ID.
4. Upload a Photo – You’ll need to upload a clear photo of yourself for identification.
5. Pay the Registration Fee – The SAT costs $68. If you're eligible for a fee waiver, make sure to check with your school counselor.
6. Print Your Admission Ticket – After registering, print your SAT admission ticket and bring it with you on test day.

SAT Registration Fees

The SAT registration fee covers the cost of the test, but additional fees apply for late registration, test date changes, or cancellations. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

Additional SAT Fees for Changes

Thinking about switching your SAT test center, canceling, or registering late? Here’s a quick look at the additional fees you’ll need to cover. Always plan wisely!

SAT Fee Waiver Eligibility

For students from low-income families, the SAT fee waiver is a great way to take the test without financial stress. Here’s who qualifies:

• 11th and 12th-grade students from low-income families
• Families earning up to $100,000 annually
• Students who qualify for free or reduced lunch at school
• Students in federal assistance programs like SNAP or Medicaid

What Does the Fee Waiver Cover?

• SAT registration fee (so you can take the test for free!)
• Unlimited free score reports to send to colleges
• Free college application fee waivers (so you can apply to colleges without paying extra!)

Pro Tip: If you think you qualify for a fee waiver, talk to your school counselor—they can help you get approved.

When Should You Take the SAT?

The best time to take the SAT depends on your college plans and preparation level. Most students take the test in the spring of their junior year (March, May, or June). This gives you enough time to:

• See where you stand – Get a baseline score and identify areas to improve.
• Retake the test if needed – Most students use SAT Practice Tests to score higher the second time!
• Apply to colleges with your best scores – Having SAT scores ready by fall of your senior year keeps your options open.

If you’re aiming for top universities or scholarships, you might want to take the SAT twice—once in junior year (spring) and again in senior year (fall) to maximize your score.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right SAT test date is a big step in your college journey, so it’s smart to plan ahead! Since the SAT is offered multiple times a year, pick a date that fits your schedule and gives you enough time to prep without feeling rushed. Pro tip: Register early to lock in your preferred test center and avoid any extra fees. Staying organized with test dates and deadlines will keep the process smooth and stress-free, whether it’s your first time or you’re aiming to boost your score. So, grab that calendar, choose your date, and get ready to crush the SAT!