Hi everyone, I'm getting ready to register for the SAT and saw there are some photo requirements. Can anyone tell me more about these requirements and if there are any specific rules I should be aware of? Thanks in advance!
Sure, when registering for the SAT, you'll need to provide a photo of yourself that meets certain requirements outlined by the College Board. These guidelines help ensure a smooth and secure testing process. Here's a brief rundown of the major SAT photo requirements:
1. The photo must be a clear, recent picture of you alone (no other people or objects).
2. Your face should be fully visible and well-lit, with your head facing directly into the camera.
3. The photo should match your appearance on the test day, so avoid any drastic changes in hairstyle or facial features.
4. Your entire head as well as the top of your shoulders should be visible in the photo.
5. The photo must not be larger than 2 x 2 inches (5 x 5 cm) if printed.
6. The image file size must be between 10-300 KB, and the image format should be JPEG, PNG, or GIF.
7. Photos must be in color and should have a plain, light-colored background.
8. You should avoid wearing any distracting accessories, such as hats or sunglasses, unless they're worn for religious or medical reasons.
9. Your expression in the photo should be natural, with your eyes open and both ears visible.
Make sure the photo you use adheres to these guidelines, as failure to do so can result in your registration being cancelled or your scores being withheld. When you arrive at the testing center on SAT test day, your photo ID will be compared to your registration photo to verify your identity. This helps prevent any potential cheating or impersonation attempts.
If you're not sure about your photo, you can review the College Board's photo requirements and examples on their website. Good luck with your SAT registration and preparation!
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.