[SAT Registration for 2025–2026 Is Now Open!]
When Should Your Child Take the SAT, and How Should They Prepare?
Dear Parents,
The SAT continues to play a key role in U.S. college admissions. While many colleges have adopted test-optional policies, a strong SAT score remains a significant advantage—especially for students applying to top-tier universities.
In this post, I’ll guide you through the official SAT registration timeline for the 2025–2026 academic year, and offer expert advice on how your child should prepare, all explained in a way that’s easy for parents to understand.
✅ SAT Registration Is Now Open!
(For test dates from August 2025 to June 2026)
The College Board has officially opened registration for all SAT test dates between August 2025 and June 2026. Because many test centers fill up quickly, I strongly recommend registering early if your child plans to take the test during this period.
Here’s a summary of the key test dates and deadlines:
Test Date | Regular Deadline | Late/Change Deadline |
---|---|---|
August 23, 2025 | August 8 | August 12 |
September 13, 2025 | August 29 | September 2 |
October 4, 2025 | September 19 | September 23 |
November 8, 2025 | October 24 | October 28 |
December 6, 2025 | November 21 | November 25 |
March 14, 2026 | February 27 | March 3 |
May 2, 2026 | April 17 | April 21 |
June 6, 2026 | May 22 | May 26 |
👉 All registrations must be completed via the College Board website.
👉 Deadlines close at 11:59 PM Eastern Time on the listed date.
💡 What’s Different About the Digital SAT?
Starting in 2024, all SAT exams in the U.S. have shifted to a digital format. This means the test is now administered on a computer rather than paper.
But don’t worry—students can become familiar with the format in advance by downloading the Bluebook app and taking full-length practice tests.
✔️ The digital SAT takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
✔️ It features fewer questions but is designed to more precisely assess student ability
📝 What You’ll Need to Register
To complete SAT registration, students will need:
- A College Board account (created by the student)
- A recent photo for ID verification
- A payment method (test fee is around $68)
- A test center selection (usually a local high school)
📌 If your child does not have access to a personal device, the College Board allows students to request a loaner laptop—but this must be done at least 30 days before the test date.
🎯 When Should Your Child Take the SAT?
The right test date depends on your child’s current grade level:
- 10th Grade (Sophomore): Take 1–2 practice or official tests for experience
- 11th Grade (Junior): Aim for your best score in August, October, or November
- 12th Grade (Senior): Final chances are October or December
Most students achieve their highest scores during the fall of 11th grade and use those scores when applying to college.
📚 How Should Students Prepare?
The SAT is not a test to approach casually—it requires a strategic plan.
- Reading & Writing: Start early. These sections require consistent practice.
- Math: Review key concepts and solve timed practice problems.
- Use the Bluebook app for full-length digital practice tests.
- Free resources: Khan Academy and the College Board provide excellent study tools.
For many students, working with a professional prep program like Elite Prep is extremely beneficial. It allows for targeted support, custom study plans, and a reduction in test anxiety—especially for students who need extra help in certain sections.
📌 In Closing: Now Is the Time to Take Action
The SAT isn’t just another school test—it’s a critical opportunity to demonstrate academic strength. With the right plan and early preparation, your child can dramatically improve their score.
Talk with your child now about when they’ll take the SAT, and begin creating a study plan together. If you need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Thank you very much for reading.
Andy Lee
Elite Prep Suwanee powered by Elite Open School
📍 1291 Old Peachtree Rd, NW #127, Suwanee, GA 30024
🌐 eliteprep.com/suwanee
📧 andy.lee@eliteprep.com
📞 Tel & Text: 470.253.1004
🎥 www.youtube.com/@ElitePrepSuwanee
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