The 2026–2027 SAT schedule
The SAT is offered on eight Saturdays during the 2026–27 testing year. Regular registration typically closes about three weeks before each test, and late registration (with an added $38 fee) stays open roughly 11–12 days before test day. Digital SAT scores arrive about two weeks after each administration.
| Test Date | Regular Deadline | Late Registration* | Scores Expected |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sat, Aug 22, 2026 Ideal after summer prep | Aug 7, 2026 | Aug 11, 2026 | ~Sep 4, 2026 |
| Sat, Sep 12, 2026 Before ED deadlines | Aug 28, 2026 | ~11–12 days prior | ~2 weeks after |
| Sat, Oct 3, 2026 Last comfortable ED window | Sep 18, 2026 | ~11–12 days prior | ~2 weeks after |
| Sat, Nov 7, 2026 | Oct 23, 2026 | ~11–12 days prior | ~2 weeks after |
| Sat, Dec 5, 2026 | Nov 20, 2026 | ~11–12 days prior | ~2 weeks after |
| Sat, Mar 6, 2027 | Feb 19, 2027 | ~11–12 days prior | ~2 weeks after |
| Sat, May 1, 2027 | Apr 16, 2027 | ~11–12 days prior | ~2 weeks after |
| Sat, Jun 5, 2027 | May 21, 2027 | ~11–12 days prior | ~2 weeks after |
*Late registration adds a $38 fee to the standard $68 registration. Dates and deadlines are set by College Board and can change — the current official schedule is always at collegeboard.org. Test centers in popular areas can fill well before the deadline, so early registration protects your first-choice location.
Which date fits your student? A grade-by-grade guide
Prepare this summer, test in the fall
The strongest sequence: focused preparation over summer 2026, a first official sitting on August 22 or September 12, and October 3 held in reserve as a retake. Junior year's AP courses and activities then proceed without the SAT competing for time.
August or September — the last clean window
Seniors applying Early Decision need scores in hand by late October. August 22 is the safest final sitting; September 12 works with less margin. October 3 is possible for many colleges but leaves no room for delays — worth confirming each college's score policy.
Build the foundation year
Sophomore year is for strengthening the underlying skills — reading stamina, algebra fluency, grammar rules — and taking the PSAT seriously in October. Families planning ahead often reserve summer 2027 as the dedicated preparation window.
Frequently asked questions
When is the next SAT?
Saturday, August 22, 2026. The regular registration deadline is August 7, and scores are expected around September 4.
How much does SAT registration cost?
The standard U.S. fee is $68. Registering after the regular deadline adds a $38 late fee. Fee waivers are available for eligible students and cover two test sittings.
How many times should a student take the SAT?
Most students test twice — a first official sitting after dedicated preparation, and one retake with targeted review in between. Most colleges consider a student's best scores, so a planned retake carries little downside.
How quickly do scores arrive?
Digital SAT scores are typically released about two weeks after test day, and official reports reach colleges roughly 7–10 days after that. Students testing for early deadlines should build both windows into their timeline.
What if my student needs testing accommodations?
Accommodations must be approved by College Board's Services for Students with Disabilities before registering, and approval can take time — families are encouraged to begin that process well ahead of the target test date.
Planning around the August 22 test date?
Y2 Academy's Summer SAT Camp 2026 runs July 6 – August 14 — ending one week before the August SAT. Students finish the camp with a 320+ point improvement guarantee behind them and walk into test day at their peak. Families are welcome to reach out with questions about fit, schedule, or enrollment.
About the Summer Camp