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One of the most confusing aspects of the application process is standardized testing. If you are in your junior year, you should create a timeline of when you would like to take your standardized tests. You should also plan how and when you would like to prepare for the SAT and/or ACT.
We generally recommend that students take the SAT and ACT in the spring of their junior year. You may also need to consider taking 2 to 3 SAT subject tests, depending on the schools you are planning on applying to. In your senior year, you can take the SAT and/or ACT again if needed. Generally for early applications, the last month universities will accept testing is October. For regular decision, the last month for testing is December. As policies vary, please refer to the colleges that you are applying to in order to confirm their deadlines for accepting standardized testing scores.
To learn more about the difference between the SAT and the ACT, please read our blog post: SAT vs. ACT: What is the Real Difference? If you need additional information on obtaining extended time on either exam due to a learning difference, please refer to this post.
To register for the ACT, please visit: www.act.org. To register for the SAT, please visit, www.collegeboard.org. Be sure to register for you exam soon since both exams have registration deadlines.
For international students, please refer to the international dates and deadline posted on the ACT and College Board websites listed above. Since many international testing sites fill up early, it is essential that you register early. International students may also need to look into taking the TOEFL exam if English is not considered to be your first language.
Katherine Price
Educational Consultant
What Does Test Optional Mean? It Means Take the Tests
Great College Advice clarifies what test optional truly means and argues that most colleges still want your test scores. So take the SAT or ACT.
