Do freshmen typically take the SAT?

Hey everyone! I'm just starting high school, and I was wondering if freshmen usually take the SAT? When's the recommended time for taking the test? Thanks for the advice!

Hello! Typically, high school freshmen do not take the SAT. Most students take the SAT for the first time during their junior year (11th grade), either in the fall or spring semesters. This is to allow more time for test preparation and to gain familiarity with the content covered in the exam, as you'll have more coursework completed by the time you reach your junior year.

However, if you're interested in getting a head start and a feel for the testing experience, you might want to consider taking the PSAT. The PSAT is often taken during sophomore year (10th grade) and helps students familiarize themselves with the format of the SAT, as well as serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship program. Taking the PSAT also provides valuable feedback on areas where you may need to improve before taking the actual SAT.

Ultimately, the recommended time for taking the SAT will depend on your individual circumstances and academic progress. If you feel prepared and want to get a head start during your sophomore year, it's not unheard of to take the SAT early. However, the most common timeline is to take it during junior year, allowing for further test preparation and the potential for taking the SAT multiple times to improve your score before college application deadlines in your senior year.

Good luck with your high school journey, and remember to focus on your academics and extracurriculars in addition to preparing for standardized tests!