When to take the SAT?

Hi guys, I'm a bit confused about when I should take the SAT during my high school years. Is there a specific year that is best to take it? Can I take it multiple times if needed? What do you guys think is the ideal timeline for taking the SAT?

Hi there! Figuring out the ideal timeline for taking the SAT is essential for organizing your college application process. Generally, it's a good idea to take your first SAT during the spring of your junior year. You'll have enough time to learn the material and familiarize yourself with the test during your sophomore and junior years, as well as the flexibility to retake it, if necessary, before your first college application deadlines.

To answer your question about retakes, yes, you can definitely take the SAT multiple times if needed. Many students choose to take it two or three times, depending on their target score and how they perform on their initial test(s). If you're not happy with your score after your first attempt during the spring of junior year, you can retake it during the fall of your senior year.

Keep in mind that you'll want to finish your testing by early fall of senior year, so you have time to send your scores to colleges before application deadlines. Being proactive about finishing your testing early is especially important if you're planning on applying Early Action or Early Decision to any colleges, as those deadlines are typically in early November.

Good luck!