I'm trying to plan out my test prep schedule and need to know how often the SAT is actually offered. I want to make sure I have multiple opportunities to take it before senior year gets too busy. How many times a year is it offered, and are there months that are better to aim for than others in terms of workload and prep time?
The SAT is typically offered seven times a year: in March, May, June, August, October, November, and December.
When it comes to deciding which test dates to target, there are a few things you might want to consider. Many students prefer to take the SAT in the spring of their junior year. This gives them ample time to study during the winter, and if they're not satisfied with their scores, they can retake the test in the summer or the fall of their senior year.
Summer can also be a good time to aim for because you might have more time to study without the pressure of schoolwork. The August test date is often popular because it allows students to prepare over the summer and get a score before the crunch of college application season really sets in.
Finally, keep in mind your own schedule and commitments. Are you an athlete with a rigorous training schedule in the summer? Do you have AP exams in the spring that will require a lot of your study time? Considering factors like these can help you choose when to take the SAT.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.