SAT® Test Dates and Registration Information

SAT Eligibility, Age Limits & Number of Attempts

The SAT has flexible eligibility rules, making it accessible to students across different grade levels and educational backgrounds. Anyone who meets the basic ID requirements and completes the SAT exam registration can sign up for an upcoming test date, whether they are in high school, younger than typical test takers, or returning to academics later in life.

There are no academic prerequisites to take the SAT, and no grade-level restrictions. Most students take the exam between 10th and 12th grade, but younger students may participate if permitted, and adult learners may test if they need SAT scores for college admissions.

The SAT does not have a minimum or maximum age limit, and there is no cap on how many times you can take the exam. Many students choose to retest to improve their scores or better align with application or scholarship deadlines.

SAT Test Centers

When you register for the SAT, you’ll choose a test center based on available locations in your area. Most SAT test centers are hosted by high schools, colleges, or approved testing facilities, and many fill up quickly during popular months such as October and December. Registering early helps you secure a nearby testing spot and avoid last-minute scheduling issues.

Students can search for SAT test centers by entering their country, state, or city during SAT exam registration. The site will display available locations, seating capacity, and whether seats remain for your selected SAT test date. It’s a good idea to check neighboring centers as well, especially in cities where demand is higher.

On test day, arrive early to allow time for check-in and digital setup. Bring your SAT admission ticket, acceptable photo ID, and a fully charged testing device. Some test centers have additional seating or security rules, and international locations may apply extra local fees. Students who need accommodations should choose a test center that supports the specific accommodations approved for their registration.

Registration for SAT School Day

Some schools and districts offer SAT School Day, which allows students to take the exam during regular class hours instead of traveling to a weekend test center. This option can be more convenient because students test in a familiar environment, avoid transportation challenges, and often receive added support from their school throughout the process.

Schools that participate in SAT School Day handle most of the coordination, including scheduling, registration timelines, test center setup, and communication with parents/guardians. Students may still need to upload a photo, confirm their testing device, or complete digital SAT setup through the Bluebook app, depending on school procedures.

SAT School Day fees vary by district, and in some states, the exam is offered at no cost. Students should check with their school counselor to understand local pricing, eligibility for fee waivers, and key registration deadlines.

For a detailed overview of how the program works, including benefits, fees, and test-day expectations, students and parents can review our full guide to SAT School Day, which explains every step of the process.

How to Choose the Right SAT Test Date

Choosing the right SAT examination date is an important part of planning your college application journey. The best timing depends on when you need your SAT scores, how long you want to prepare, and whether you plan to take the exam more than once.

Aligning Test Dates with College Application Timeline

Most students schedule their SAT test dates based on college application deadlines. If you’re applying in the fall of your senior year, aim to complete your SAT exam by the end of junior year or early senior year. This gives you time to receive scores, decide whether to retest, and submit everything well before the application deadline.

Many students choose SAT exam dates in March, May, or June of junior year so students can test after completing most core coursework. Taking the SAT during these months also leaves room for a fall retake if needed. Students applying early action or early decision should be especially mindful of score submission timelines to avoid missing important deadlines.

Planning for Retakes & Score Improvement

There is no limit to the number of SAT attempts allowed, and many students sit for the exam more than once to improve their scores. When planning your SAT schedule, think about how much preparation time you’ll need between tests. For example, some students take their first SAT in the spring and a second test in August, October, or December to strengthen their results.

Spacing out SAT exam dates by 2 to 3 months gives you enough time to review your score report, focus on improvement areas, and build stronger testing skills. For guidance on whether a second attempt is right for you, you can explore our complete resource on retaking the SAT, which explains how to time retakes for maximum score growth. For a structured study plan between test dates, our SAT Prep Course walks you through targeted lessons and practice to help you make the most of each retake.

Choosing Dates for International Students

International students follow the same digital SAT test dates as U.S. students, but seat availability and local testing capacity can vary by region. Because some international SAT test centers fill quickly, it’s best to select preferred SAT exam dates early and register before scheduling windows close. International applicants should also keep U.S. university deadlines, visa timelines, and the possibility of taking additional SAT administrations in mind when planning their overall testing schedule.