Hey crowd, I am planning to take the SAT in December of my junior year. But I'm kinda confused, will that be too late if I'm considering submitting it as part of my college applications? Will the scores get in on time, anyone know how this works? Thanks for the advice!
Hello!
Taking the SAT in December of your junior year is pretty common and it definitely won't be too late for your college applications. The scores from this test date will certainly be available before most application deadlines during your senior year, whether you're applying Early Decision/Action or Regular Decision. Many schools have deadlines in January or later, so you would have time to review your scores, decide if you want to retake the test, and still submit scores for these deadlines.
If you're unsatisfied with your result from the December test, you can even consider retaking the SAT in the Spring or even in the early Fall of your senior year.
However, keep in mind that you also want to give yourself enough time to focus on other aspects of your application – such as essays, extracurricular activities, and maintaining good grades – during your senior year. Balancing everything can sometimes be a challenge if you're also studying for a retake of the SAT.
Also remember that as of spring 2024, the SAT went fully digital, and has two 32-minute modules for the Reading and Writing part with 54 questions in total, and two 35-minute modules for Math with 44 questions.
Hold on to this thought: Achieving a score you're content with by the end of your junior year could alleviate some pressure during your senior year.
Your December test will likely be useful for the college application process and will arrive in time. Best of luck with your exam preparations!
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