When should I take the SAT in high school?

Hey everyone, currently a junior here. Been hearing about everyone taking their SATs and it's got me a bit flustered. When's the best timing to take the SATs in high school?

The SAT can be taken at any point in high school, but the typical time that students choose to take the SAT for the first time is in the spring of their junior year. Here's why: by this point, you'll have likely covered most of the content on the test in your regular coursework. After that, you might choose to sit for the test again in the fall of your senior year if you're looking to improve your score before college application deadlines, which typically fall between November and January of your senior year.

However, it's also crucial to remember that your personal timeline could vary based on academic strengths, extracurricular commitments, and personal preference. For instance, if your junior spring is busy with extracurricular activities or AP exams, you might decide to take the SAT for the first time earlier in your junior year or at the start of the summer.

In preparation, you should also consider setting aside time for studying and possible SAT prep courses or resources. The new, digital SAT format, which started in spring 2024, has testing dates throughout the year, providing flexibility around when you can take the test. So you can set a study schedule that works for you, practice with materials and tools such as the Bluebook™ app, and decide on a test date that aligns with your school schedule and study plan. It can also be beneficial to take a practice test towards the end of your sophomore year to get a benchmark score, understand your weaknesses, and plan an effective study strategy.

Finally, remember there's no perfect time to take the SAT that applies to every student. It depends on your individual circumstances and preparation level. Your goal should be to give yourself ample time to prepare and potentially retake the test if you're not satisfied with your initial scores.