When do students normally take the SAT?

I'm trying to plan out the rest of my junior year and was wondering when most students usually take the SAT. I know some of my classmates have started to prepare for it, but I'm not sure if I'm too late or too early. Should I aim to take it during the spring of my junior year, or is it better to wait until senior year? Any suggestions or timelines that worked for others would be super helpful. Thanks in advance!

Most students typically take their first SAT in the spring of their junior year. This timeline allows you ample preparation time during your sophomore and junior years, and it also provides you with a clear sense of where you stand academically before you begin your college applications.

In short, a springtime test date during your junior year is often beneficial because it allows for a retake in the summer or fall of your senior year if necessary. This way, you can submit higher scores on your applications, which are typically due in the early winter of your senior year.

However, the best time to take the SAT will ultimately depend on your personal study habits. If you're confident in your test-taking abilities and think you'll only need to take the test once, you might consider taking it earlier, perhaps in the winter of your junior year.

Remember, the SAT now being digital as of spring 2024, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the format of the digital test ahead of time. You can use the Bluebook™ app to preview the digital SAT and take a full-length practice test.

Keep in mind that, to achieve the best possible score, you should align the SAT test date with your study plan. Maintain a consistent study schedule leading up to the exam and make sure to review practice problems regularly. Good luck!