SAT Exam Dates 2026-27: Full Schedule, Deadlines & Score Release

SAT Expected Test Dates 2027-28

See the anticipated dates below for the SAT exam for 2028-28. These dates can change, so students are advised to keep checking the official website for final dates.

Fall 2027

Spring 2028

(Source: College Board SAT Dates and Deadlines )

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SAT Exam Fees 2026

Since fees change how (and when) students plan their attempt, here's what you'll pay:

(Source: College Board Test Fees and International Fees pages.)

Some test centres outside the US may also add a small local test-centre fee, so it's worth checking your specific centre when you register. For a full breakdown, see our SAT exam fees guide.

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When Can You Take the SAT Exam?

You can take the SAT 7 to 8 times a year, in March, May, June, August, September, October, November, and December. There's no fixed age limit, but most Indian students taking it are in Class 11 or 12, since that's when they start applying to universities abroad.

The SAT tests skills roughly aligned with the Grade 10 to 11 level, with a strong focus on algebra, data analysis, and reading comprehension. If you're unsure which grade is the right time to start, our detailed guide on when to take the SAT breaks this down further.

Top destinations for Indian students, including the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, all accept SAT scores for undergraduate admissions.

The average SAT score is around 1050 out of 1600. A score above 1350 puts you in the top 10% of test-takers, and if you're aiming for Ivy League or other highly selective universities, a score of 1500+ genuinely strengthens your application. Check our page on the SAT exam pattern to understand exactly how the score is calculated.

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How to Register for the SAT

Registration happens entirely online through your College Board account.

Step 1 – Create your College Board account and register

Fill in your details and submit your application before the registration deadline for your chosen test date. Missed a deadline? You can still register for the next available date.

Step 2 – Get your SAT admission ticket

Once registration is complete, you'll receive an admission ticket confirming your test date and test centre. Keep this handy for test day.

Step 3 – Take the Digital SAT

Show up at your test centre on the scheduled date, with your device (or a College Board-loaned one) ready. The exam runs for 2 hours and 14 minutes, split into Reading & Writing and Math sections, with a 10-minute break in between.

For a full walkthrough, see our detailed SAT exam registration guide. You should also confirm you meet the basic SAT eligibility criteria before you register, and keep your CEEB code ready since you'll need it during sign-up.

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SAT Score Release Dates

The Digital SAT releases scores much faster than the old paper test. You'll usually see your score in your College Board account within about 13 days (roughly 2 weeks) of your test date, along with a section-by-section breakdown of your performance.

Once your score is out, official score reports are sent to the colleges on your list within another 7 to 10 days. If you're applying under an Early Decision or Early Action deadline, work backwards from your college's deadline and leave enough buffer time, ideally 1 to 2 months, for scores to arrive and for a possible retake.

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How to Choose the Right SAT Exam Date

Picking your test date isn't just about convenience. Here's what to actually think about:

• Your preparation level: If you're confident with Class 10-level Math and English, an early attempt at the start of Class 11 can work well. If not, give yourself more prep time. Our SAT test-taking tips can help you figure out where you stand.
• Your college application deadlines: Take the SAT at least 1 to 2 months before your target university's deadline, to leave room for a retake if needed.
• Scholarship plans: If you're applying for SAT-based scholarships, aim for a strong score in your first 1 to 2 attempts, since scholarship cut-offs are usually competitive.

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How Many Times Can You Take the SAT?

There's no limit on how many times you can take the SAT. College Board recommends that Class 11 students take their first attempt in spring, and Class 12 students take a retake (if needed) in the fall.

Most universities consider your highest SAT score, and many students score higher the second time around. Many colleges also use a method called superscoring, where they combine your best Reading & Writing score and your best Math score across different attempts, even from different test dates, to calculate your final SAT score.