Digital SAT Test Dates & Deadlines: The Complete Guide

Planning your college admissions timeline requires managing a complex calendar of academic, extracurricular, and administrative deadlines. Among these, coordinating your SAT test dates and understanding the accompanying SAT deadlines are critical steps. Registering for the exam is not simply about choosing a date on a calendar; it is about aligning your preparation cycles, managing score release timelines, and coordinating with college application deadlines.

A mistake in timing—such as registering for a date that releases scores too late for your early action deadline, or failing to request a device loan in time—can disrupt your admissions plan. This guide provides a detailed review of the Digital SAT testing calendar, helping you design a testing schedule that supports your score goals.

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1. Executive Summary & Quick Reference

For students who need to make immediate scheduling decisions, the following points summarize the testing calendar:

• Test Frequency: The SAT is administered 7 times per year in the US and globally.
• Registration Window: The regular registration deadline falls approximately 28 days before the test date.
• Late Registration Surcharge: Domestic US students have a 14-day late registration window that carries an additional $34 fee. International administrations do not support late registration.
• Accommodations & Device Loans: Accommodations take 7 to 8 weeks for approval. Device loans must be requested at least 30 days before the exam.
• Score Release: Score-release timing can vary by administration. Verify the current release window in your College Board account.
• Official Verification: Dates and deadlines are subject to change. Always verify current calendars on the official College Board Dates and Deadlines page before registering.

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2. Phase 1: Scheduled Test Dates Calendar (2026 - 2027)

Last Checked and Verified: June 19, 2026

The table below summarizes the 2026-2027 SAT calendar for quick planning. Treat it as a study-planning aid and verify the live dates and deadlines on College Board before registering.

Test Date	Registration Deadline	Late Registration Deadline (US Only)	Estimated Score Release
August 22, 2026	August 7, 2026	August 11, 2026	Check College Board
September 12, 2026	August 28, 2026	September 1, 2026	Check College Board
October 3, 2026	September 18, 2026	September 22, 2026	Check College Board
November 7, 2026	October 23, 2026	October 27, 2026	Check College Board
December 5, 2026	November 20, 2026	November 24, 2026	Check College Board
March 6, 2027	February 19, 2027	February 23, 2027	Check College Board
May 1, 2027	April 16, 2027	April 20, 2027	Check College Board
June 5, 2027	May 21, 2027	May 25, 2027	Check College Board

[!WARNING] While the College Board makes every effort to adhere to this schedule, local test center availability can vary. Weather emergencies, facility maintenance, or proctor shortages can lead to localized cancellations. Always verify that your selected center is open and confirmed on your student dashboard in the days leading up to your exam.

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3. Phase 2: Understanding Deadlines & Registration Planning

Every test date on the calendar carries a series of deadlines. Missing these deadlines can lead to additional fees or the cancellation of your registration.

  Test Date -8 Weeks            Test Date -4 Weeks            Test Date -30 Days
  +----------------------+      +----------------------+      +----------------------+
  | Submit SSD Requests  | ===> | Regular Registration | ===> | Device Loan Cutoff   |
  | (Accommodations)     |      | Deadline             |      | (Strict Deadline)    |
  +----------------------+      +----------------------+      +----------------------+
                                           ||
                                           \/
                                Test Date -2 Weeks
                                +----------------------+
                                | Late Registration    |
                                | Deadline (US Only)   |
                                +----------------------+

1. The Regular Registration Deadline

The regular registration deadline falls approximately 4 weeks (28 days) before the test date. This is the last day to register for the exam without paying late fees. It is also the deadline for changing your test center or test date for a standard fee.

2. The Late Registration Window (US Only)

For testing centers located in the US and US territories, a late registration window remains open for 14 days after the regular deadline.

• Late Fee: Registering during this window incurs the current College Board late registration fee. As of the June 23, 2026 fee-page check, late registration is listed at $38 in addition to the standard registration cost.
• International Exception: International test centers do not support late registration. The regular registration deadline is the final cutoff for all international bookings.

3. Accommodations (SSD) Submission Deadlines

If you require testing accommodations (such as extended time or extra breaks), you must submit your request early.

• Approval Timeline: The Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) office takes 7 to 8 weeks to review and approve accommodations requests.
• Planning Rule: You must submit your accommodations request to the SSD office at least two months before your target test date. If you register before your accommodations are officially approved, your registration will not reflect your required settings, and you will test under standard conditions.

4. Device Loan Request Deadlines

The Digital SAT is taken on a laptop, tablet, or school-managed Chromebook running the Bluebook application. If you do not own a compatible device, you can request a loaner from the College Board.

• The 30-Day Cutoff: You must submit your device loan request at least 30 days before your scheduled test date.
• Processing and Shipping: The College Board must verify your request, coordinate with your sponsor (such as a counselor or parent), and ship the pre-configured device to your assigned test center. The College Board cannot process late requests, and you will not be permitted to test if you arrive without a compatible device.

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4. Phase 3: Strategic Planning — When to Take the SAT

Choosing when to take the SAT depends on your academic goals, course load, and college application timelines. Most students take the exam twice: once in the spring of their junior year and once in the fall of their senior year.

Grade-Level Preparation Checklists

To organize your testing schedule effectively, follow these grade-specific checklists:

1. Freshmen & Sophomores (Pre-Prep Phase)

• Focus Areas: Build a strong foundation in reading comprehension and math (focusing on algebra and geometry basics).
• Checklist Items:
  • Read high-quality articles, non-fiction books, and scientific reviews weekly to improve reading speed.
  • Master linear equations, systems of equations, and basic geometric coordinate formulas.
  • Take a PSAT 8/9 or PSAT 10 at your school to familiarize yourself with the format.
  • Set a target composite score based on the admissions statistics of your dream colleges.

2. High School Juniors (The Primary Testing Phase)

• Focus Areas: Structured preparation, baseline diagnostics, and completing your first official attempts.
• Checklist Items:
  • September – October: Take a full-length diagnostic practice test in the Bluebook app. Identify weak domains.
  • November – December: Set up a study plan (e.g., 8-week or 12-week schedule). Begin practicing math and verbal concepts.
  • January: Register for the March SAT. Submit SSD requests if you need testing accommodations.
  • February: Complete 6 to 8 timed practice modules. Master Desmos graphing shortcuts.
  • March: Sit for your first official SAT. Review your results when College Board releases them in your account.
  • April: Register for the May or June SAT if you need a score boost. Focus study on areas flagged in your March report.
  • May – June: Take your second official SAT. Most students complete their target scores here.

3. High School Seniors (The Final Booster Phase)

• Focus Areas: Final retakes, superscore optimization, and application submissions.
• Checklist Items:
  • June – July (Summer): Review vocabulary and advanced algebra. Complete the next available Bluebook practice tests from the current official list.
  • August: Take the August SAT. This is highly popular as it occurs before senior coursework starts.
  • September: Register for the October SAT if applying to Early Action/Early Decision programs and still needing a boost.
  • October: Take your final official SAT. Scores are released in mid-October, allowing submission before Nov 1 deadlines.
  • November – December: Send official score reports to colleges. If applying Regular Decision (Jan 1), the December SAT is the absolute final date you can target.

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The Junior Year Testing Window Detail

We recommend taking your first SAT in the spring of your junior year.

1. The March Administration

• Pros: Fits well with the academic calendar. Allows you to establish a baseline score early in the spring semester.
• Cons: You may not have completed all advanced algebra and geometry coursework in school, which are tested in the Math section.

2. The May Administration

• Pros: Allows for more math preparation. Fits well with AP exam preparation, as you are already in a study-oriented mindset.
• Cons: May create scheduling conflicts with AP exams and spring sports.

3. The June Administration

• Pros: Excellent timing for students who want to focus entirely on the SAT after school finals are complete.
• Cons: Can conflict with final exams and graduation events.

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The Senior Year Testing Window Detail

The fall of your senior year is the primary window for score improvement.

1. The August Administration

• Pros: Highly popular because students can study over the summer without the distraction of regular high school coursework.
• Cons: Test centers fill up extremely quickly. You must register in June or July to secure a seat.

2. The October Administration

• Pros: Fits well with college application timelines. Serves as the final testing opportunity for students applying under Early Action or Early Decision policies.
• Cons: Fall coursework and college essay drafting can limit study time.

3. The November & December Administrations

• Pros: Provides additional study time for students applying under Regular Decision policies.
• Cons: Too late for Early Action or Early Decision deadlines.

Aligning Test Dates with College Application Deadlines

Your target test date must allow enough time for score processing and reporting before college deadlines.

• Early Action / Early Decision (EA/ED): These deadlines typically fall on November 1 or November 15. The October SAT is often the last practical date for early rounds, but you must verify College Board score-release dates and each college’s receipt policy before relying on it. The August test is usually the safer option for early deadlines.
• Regular Decision (RD): These deadlines typically fall on January 1 or January 15. The December SAT is the latest date you can target for Regular Decision rounds. Scores from the December exam are typically released in mid-December, leaving enough time for submission.

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5. Phase 5: The Retake Strategy & Prep Cycles

Taking the SAT multiple times is a common prep strategy. Most students see a score increase on their second attempt due to familiarity with the testing environment, reduced anxiety, and targeted study.

  Diagnostic Exam (Baseline)    First Official Test (Junior Spring)  Second Official Test (Senior Fall)
  +--------------------------+  +---------------------------------+  +--------------------------------+
  | Identify weak domains    |  | Gain real test experience       |  | Apply targeted prep strategies |
  | Establish score goal     |  | Identify pacing issues          |  | Focus on superscore booster    |
  +--------------------------+  +---------------------------------+  +--------------------------------+

Why a Two-Test Strategy is Standard

• Superscoring: Most colleges and universities practice superscoring. They evaluate your highest Reading & Writing section score and your highest Math section score across all test dates to compile a new, higher composite score.
• Pacing Adjustments: No matter how many practice tests you take in Bluebook, the pressure of a real test center is difficult to replicate. Your first official test serves as an important benchmark, helping you identify pacing issues under pressure.
• Diminishing Returns: Taking the exam more than three times is rarely beneficial. Testing fatigue can set in, and score improvements tend to plateau. Focus on high-quality preparation between your first and second attempts rather than scheduling back-to-back tests.

Superscore Verification Table

To illustrate how superscoring works, review the score profile of a student who took the test three times:

Test Attempt	Reading & Writing Score	Math Score	Composite Score
Attempt 1 (March)	620	680	1300
Attempt 2 (June)	670	650	1320
Attempt 3 (August)	650	720	1370
Official Superscore	670 (from June)	720 (from August)	1390

• Note: While Sophia’s highest single-test composite score was a 1370, her official superscore submitted to colleges is 1390. This shows the mathematical advantage of retaking the test.

Superscoring vs. Score Choice

Understanding the difference between these two policies is critical:

• Superscoring: Colleges automatically extract the highest section scores from different dates. You should submit all test scores to colleges that superscore.
• Score Choice: This College Board service allows you to choose which test dates to send to colleges. For example, if you took the test in March and scored poorly, but did well in August, you can choose to send only the August score report. Note that some highly selective colleges require you to submit your entire testing history, making Score Choice unavailable for those schools.

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6. Test Center Selection Strategy

Selecting where you take the SAT is as important as selecting when you take it. Your testing environment can have a major impact on your concentration.

1. Travel Distance & Logistics

• Plan Your Test-Day Travel: Choose a center within a 30-minute drive of your home. Arriving stressed after a long, rushed drive can negatively affect your performance.
• Familiarity: If possible, choose your own high school as the test center. Testing in a familiar building with familiar desks and classrooms reduces anxiety.
• Rural Considerations: If you live in a rural area, you may need to travel to a neighboring city. In this case, consider booking a hotel room near the test center the night before to ensure you are rested.

2. Facility Quality & Room Environments

• Desk Size: Some test centers use lecture hall desks with small, fold-out tablet arms, which make it difficult to place your laptop, mouse, and scratch paper. Look for centers that use standard classroom desks or lab tables.
• Acoustics and Lighting: Avoid test centers situated near noisy highways or those with outdated fluorescent lighting that flickers. High school libraries and modern private schools often make the best testing environments.
• A/C and Heating: Rooms can be drafty or overheated. Always dress in layers on test day so you can adjust to the room temperature.

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7. SAT School Day Dates and Logistics

Many school districts across the United States sponsor SAT School Day administrations. This program allows juniors and seniors to take the official exam at their own high school during regular school hours on a weekday, rather than traveling to a testing site on a Saturday morning.

• Spring Testing Windows: School Day exams are typically administered in March and April. The College Board provides schools with a multi-week window (e.g., March 1 to April 30) during which they can schedule their testing sessions.
• Fee Subsidies: School districts or state departments of education often cover the entire cost of the registration fee for all enrolled students, making testing free.
• No Online Saturday Booking Required: You do not need to register on the College Board portal for School Day testing. Your high school’s guidance department and technology coordinators will handle your registration, create your credentials, and assign you a testing room.
• Accommodations and Score Reports: Approved SSD accommodations are fully integrated into School Day administrations. Your score report will look identical to a Saturday report and can be sent to colleges via standard score-reporting tools.

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8. Testing Timelines for Gap-Year Students and Adult Learners

If you are a non-traditional applicant—such as a gap-year student, a transfer applicant, or an adult learner returning to higher education—you must plan your test dates around localized university application deadlines.

• Application Windows: Non-traditional transfer applications often have different deadlines (e.g., March 1 for fall transfer or November 1 for spring transfer). Ensure your test date falls at least six weeks before the deadline to allow for score compilation and institutional routing.
• Test Center Access: Since you are no longer affiliated with a high school, you must register as an independent student using the CEEB code 990000. You will select standard Saturday test centers in your area.
• Preparation Pacing: Adult learners often require longer preparation cycles (\(t \approx 12\) to 16 weeks) to review algebra and geometry concepts that they have not studied in several years.

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9. Mathematical Models for Test Timing & Superscoring

To optimize your preparation timeline and understand the statistical advantages of multiple test attempts, review the following mathematical models:

1. Preparation Efficiency and Score Growth Curve

Let \(S(t)\) represent your expected SAT score improvement as a function of preparation time \(t\) in weeks: \[S(t) = S_{\text{max}} \cdot \left(1 - e^{-\lambda t}\right) + S_0\] where:

• \(S_0\) is your baseline diagnostic score (e.g., 1000).
• \(S_{\text{max}}\) is your maximum potential score improvement based on your current academic foundation (e.g., 300 points).
• \(\lambda\) is your preparation efficiency coefficient, which depends on study quality, materials, and focus.
• \(t\) is the number of weeks spent studying before a scheduled test date.

Parameter Analysis

• Rapid Initial Growth: For small values of \(t\) (e.g., 1 to 4 weeks), the growth rate of \(S(t)\) is high: \[\frac{dS}{dt} = \lambda S_{\text{max}} e^{-\lambda t}\] During this phase, you are addressing simple errors and learning test-taking strategies.
• Plateau Phase: As \(t\) increases beyond 12 weeks, the exponential term \(e^{-\lambda t}\) approaches zero, and your score approaches your current limit: \[\lim_{t \to \infty} S(t) = S_{\text{max}} + S_0\]
• Strategic Takeaway: Standard preparation plans should target 8 to 12 weeks of study (\(t \approx 10\)). Studying for 20+ weeks without a break leads to diminishing returns and testing burnout.

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2. The Statistical Advantage of Superscoring

Suppose a student takes the test \(N\) times. For each test attempt \(i\) (where \(1 \le i \le N\)), the student receives a Reading & Writing score \(R_i\) and a Math score \(M_i\). Let these section scores be modeled as random variables: \[R_i \sim \mathcal{N}(\mu_R, \sigma_R^2) \quad \text{and} \quad M_i \sim \mathcal{N}(\mu_M, \sigma_M^2)\] where \(\mu\) represents the student’s true ability level and \(\sigma^2\) represents score variance due to test-day factors (such as fatigue, guessing, and question selection).

The student’s composite score on a single test attempt \(i\) is: \[C_i = R_i + M_i\] The student’s superscore after \(N\) attempts is defined as: \[S_{\text{super}} = \max_{1 \le i \le N} R_i + \max_{1 \le j \le N} M_j\]

Mathematical Comparison

Because the maximum of multiple independent random variables has an expected value higher than the expected value of any single variable: \[E\left[\max_{1 \le i \le N} X_i\right] > E[X_i] \quad \text{for} \quad N > 1\] the expected superscore is higher than the expected composite score of a single attempt: \[E[S_{\text{super}}] > E[C_i]\]

For example, if a student has a true ability level of \(\mu_R = 600\) and \(\mu_M = 600\), with a section standard deviation of \(\sigma = 30\) points:

• Single Attempt Expected Score: \(E[C_1] = 600 + 600 = 1200\).
• Two Attempts Expected Superscore (\(N=2\)): Under the properties of normal order statistics, the expected maximum of two independent normal variables \(X_1, X_2 \sim \mathcal{N}(\mu, \sigma^2)\) is: \[E[\max(X_1, X_2)] = \mu + \frac{\sigma}{\sqrt{\pi}} \approx \mu + 0.564\sigma\] Applying this to our section scores: \[E[\max(R_1, R_2)] \approx 600 + 0.564(30) \approx 617\] \[E[\max(M_1, M_2)] \approx 600 + 0.564(30) \approx 617\] This yields an expected superscore of: \[E[S_{\text{super}}] \approx 617 + 617 = 1234\]
• Strategic Takeaway: Taking the test twice mathematically increases the expected score by 34 points due to score variance alone, even without additional study. This highlights the value of planning for at least one retake.

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10. International Student Testing Calendars

International students face unique registration requirements and fees that do not apply to domestic US students.

1. Global Date Synchronization

The Digital SAT is administered globally on the same Saturdays as domestic US exams. However, because international testing centers are subject to local holidays and school closures, availability can be limited.

• Strict Deadlines: International administrations do not support late registration windows. The regular registration deadline (typically 28 days before the test date) is the final cutoff for all international bookings.
• Passport Mandate: In many international jurisdictions, a valid, physical passport is the only accepted form of identification. High school student ID cards are rarely accepted for international testers. Verify the identification requirements for your country on the College Board portal before registering.

2. International Fees and Regional Surcharges

International students must pay the baseline registration fee ($68) plus a Regional Fee:

• Americas (Outside US): +$43
• East Asia & Pacific: +$53
• Europe & Eurasia: +$49
• Middle East & North Africa: +$47
• South & Central Asia: +$49
• Sub-Saharan Africa: +$43

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11. Case Studies of Testing Timelines

To help illustrate how these timing strategies apply in practice, review the following case studies of common student testing timelines:

Case Study A: The Junior Year Finisher

• Sophia’s Testing Timeline: Sophia, a junior with a baseline score of 1150, plans to apply for competitive state universities. Her target score is 1350.
  1. September – December: She takes diagnostic practice exams in the Bluebook app, identifying algebra and reading command of evidence as her weakest areas.
  2. March SAT: She takes the March exam, scoring a 1250.
  3. June SAT: She spends 8 weeks practicing on weak areas, and takes the June exam. She achieves a 1340.
  4. Superscore Result: Sophia finishes testing with a 1340 superscore. Her summer remains open for volunteer work and essay writing.

Case Study B: The Senior Fall Booster

• David’s Testing Timeline: David has a baseline of 1380 and wants to break 1450 for early action rounds.
  1. August SAT: David registers early in June. He studies over the summer and takes the August exam, scoring a 1440 (760 Math, 680 Verbal).
  2. October SAT: David registers for the October exam as a backup. He scores a 1420 (720 Verbal, 700 Math).
  3. Superscore Result: His combined superscore is 1480 (760 Math from August, 720 Verbal from October). David submits this score to his Early Decision choice before the November 1 deadline.

Case Study C: The Accommodated Winter Tester

• Isabella’s Testing Timeline: Isabella has dyslexia and requires double-breaks and time-and-a-half (+50% time) accommodations.
  1. October: Her school counselor submits her SSD documentation.
  2. December: She receives approval.
  3. January: She registers for the March SAT, entering her SSD code and requesting a device loan.
  4. Test Day: She tests on a loaned Chromebook at her center with her extended timing timer active. The Chromebook is pre-loaded with her accommodations profile, allocating her 48 minutes per Reading & Writing module (instead of 32) and 53 minutes per Math module (instead of 35). She successfully finishes the test with a score of 1290, meeting her target score.

Case Study D: The Military Dependent Testing Abroad

• Nicholas’s Testing Timeline: Nicholas is a high school junior whose parent is active-duty military personnel stationed at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. He is planning to apply to US universities and wants to register for the SAT without facing international surcharges.
  1. CEEB Identification: Nicholas registers online, linking his profile to the Department of Defense Dependents (DODD) high school CEEB code.
  2. Date Selection: He selects the March SAT, matching his junior-year spring timeline.
  3. Center Booking: When searching for test centers, he enters the base postal code (APO/FPO). The portal lists the base high school as an active testing location.
  4. Fee Calculation: Because he is testing at an authorized DODD military base test center, the system automatically waives the standard Europe & Eurasia international regional surcharge of $49. He only pays the standard domestic registration fee of $68.
  5. Test Day: Nicholas presents his physical military dependent ID card alongside his admission ticket. The proctor admits him to the secure base school lab, where he completes the Digital SAT on his personal macOS laptop.
  6. Results and Superscoring: Nicholas scores a 1410 (690 Verbal, 720 Math). Encouraged by this baseline, he uses the summer to focus on his Reading & Writing skills and registers for the October SAT. He takes the October test at the same military base center, scoring a 1460 (740 Verbal, 720 Math). His combined superscore rises to 1460, helping him secure admissions to selective institutions in the US.

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12. Source Verification and Official Disclaimers

Official Source Reference

For official calendars, late registration dates, test center capacity reports, and fee waiver policies, refer directly to the College Board’s official portals:

[!NOTE]

• Official Dates & Deadlines: satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/dates-deadlines
• Registration Portal: sat.org/register
• SSD Accommodations: accommodations.collegeboard.org
• Device Loan Portal: bluebook.collegeboard.org/students/approved-devices/request-device

[!WARNING] Testing dates, registration deadlines, late fees, and local test-center capacities are subject to change. Always verify current schedules and policies on the official College Board website before completing your registration.

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13. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: When is the best time to register for the August SAT?

You should register for the August SAT as soon as registration opens for the new academic year, which typically occurs in late May or early June. The August date is highly popular because students can study over the summer, and test centers in metropolitan areas often reach capacity within the first few weeks of registration opening. If you wait until July, you may have to travel long distances to find a seat.

Q2: What happens if I miss the registration deadline?

If you miss the regular registration deadline, you may be able to register during the late registration window (US only) by paying the current College Board late registration fee. As of the June 23, 2026 fee check, College Board lists late registration at $38. If no late or waitlist option is available in your account, register for the next available test date. Always verify the active deadline and fee page before paying.

Q3: How do college admissions offices view multiple SAT scores?

Most colleges and universities practice superscoring. They evaluate your highest Reading & Writing section score and your highest Math section score across all test dates to compile a new, higher composite score. College admissions offices generally do not penalize students for taking the test multiple times, as they only focus on your highest scores. Some schools do require submission of all scores, but they still prioritize the highest components.

Q4: Are scores from different test dates comparable?

Yes. The College Board uses a statistical process called score equating to ensure that scores from different test dates and test forms are comparable. Equating accounts for slight differences in difficulty between test forms, ensuring that a 700 on the March SAT represents the same level of ability as a 700 on the October SAT. It is not a curve based on other test-takers’ scores, but an absolute measurement.

Q5: Can I cancel my score if I feel I did poorly?

If you believe you did poorly on the exam, you can cancel your score.

• Deadline: You must submit your score cancellation request online or via a paper form before 11:59 PM Eastern Time on the Thursday following your Saturday test date.
• Irrevocability: Once canceled, your score cannot be recovered or reported to colleges, and you will not receive a refund.

Q6: How do I change my test date after registering?

You can change your test date through your online College Board dashboard if the option is available. You must pay the current change-related fee and complete the change before the registration deadline for the new date. Verify the College Board fee page before paying because fee amounts can change.

Q7: Can I take the SAT during a school day?

Yes. Many high schools participate in SAT School Day, which allows students to take the exam during regular school hours on a weekday. School Day administrations are managed directly by your high school, and registration fees are often covered by the school district or state. Check with your counselor for availability and schedules.

Q8: What should I do if my scores are delayed?

If your scores are not released during the expected window shown in your College Board account, check your student portal for notifications. Score delays can occur due to administrative reviews, test center irregularities, or late receipt of testing materials. If your scores are delayed without explanation, contact College Board Customer Support. Additionally, check if your test center was subject to a room-wide investigation, which can sometimes delay score reports while the College Board runs security validation checks.

Q9: How long are SAT scores valid?

SAT scores are technically valid for five years. However, some colleges require additional verification or context if you submit scores that are more than two or three years old. If you take the exam during your junior or senior year of high school, your scores will remain valid throughout the college application process. If you are returning to college after a long military service or gap-year career, you may want to verify if your target institutions require fresh diagnostics or if they accept older SAT results.

Q10: Does my testing accommodations code change for each test date?

No. Once approved by the SSD office, your accommodations code remains valid for all College Board exams (including the SAT, PSAT, and AP Exams) throughout your high school career. You must input the same SSD code during registration for each test date to ensure your accommodations are applied. Note that if you receive new accommodations midway through high school (such as a temporary accommodation due to an arm injury), you must contact the SSD coordinator to update your eligibility letter and obtain a new verification code.

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14. Testing Timeline and Student Action Plan

To ensure a smooth registration and testing process, follow this timeline leading up to your exam:

• 12 Weeks Before: Discuss testing accommodations with your counselor if you require SSD approvals.
• 8 Weeks Before: Research local test centers, verify seat availability, and complete your online registration.
• 4 Weeks Before: Confirm that your registration photo has been accepted. Verify that your name on your dashboard matches your ID.
• 30 Days Before: Submit a device loan request to the College Board if you need to borrow a device.
• 5 Days Before: Open the Bluebook app on your testing device, run the Pre-Exam Setup, download your exam package, and print your admission ticket.
• The Night Before: Pack your photo ID, admission ticket, charger, and approved calculator in your backpack. Get plenty of rest.
• Test Day: Arrive at the test center by 7:45 AM. Connect your device to the local Wi-Fi, enter the room code, and follow the proctor’s directions to begin your exam.