The SAT is an important standardized test for college admissions in the United States. Students must consider the SAT application timeline when applying to colleges to ensure their scores are submitted on time. In this article, we will explore the SAT application timeline, including when students should take their first SAT and when they should take their last SAT to submit them to college on time.

When to Take the First SAT

Students should plan to take their first SAT in the spring of their junior year. This allows students to take the test early enough to have time to retake it if necessary. It also allows students to have their scores ready for college applications in the fall of their senior year.

For example, if a student plans to apply to college in the fall of 2023, they should plan to take their first SAT in the spring of 2022. This gives them time to retake the test in the fall of 2022 if necessary and to have their scores ready for college applications in the fall of 2022.

When to Take the Last SAT

Most students will take their last SAT in fall of senior year in either October or November. December may be too late for some students. To avoid stress, you should aim to have at least 6 weeks between the date of your last SAT and the date your first college application is due. You will normally get scores back within a couple of weeks, but sometimes it can be delayed.

SAT Score Release Dates

Students should also consider SAT score release dates when planning their SAT application timeline. SAT scores are typically released 10-13 days after the test date. However, scores can take up to three weeks to be sent to colleges. In general, scores take longer to be released for school-day tests. This is likely because there are so many students taking the test.

For example, if a student took the SAT on October 2, 2021, their scores will be released on October 15, 2021. However, it may take up to three weeks for colleges to receive their scores. This means that students should plan to take the SAT early enough to ensure that their scores are accepted by colleges by their application deadlines.

College Application Deadlines

Students should also consider college application deadlines when planning their SAT application timeline. College application deadlines vary by college, ranging from early decision deadlines in November to regular decision deadlines in January or February.

For example, if a student plans to apply to a college with an early decision deadline of November 1, 2022, they should plan to take their last SAT in the fall of 2021 to ensure that the college receives their scores in time for the early decision deadline.

Students should also consider other deadlines related to their college applications, such as submitting transcripts, recommendation letters, and essays. Considering these deadlines, students can create a comprehensive SAT application timeline that ensures all their application materials are presented on time.

SAT Application Timeline Checklist

To help students create an SAT application timeline, here is a checklist of critical dates and deadlines to consider:

• Spring of junior year: Take the first SAT
• Summer before senior year: Consider taking SAT prep courses or working with a tutor
• Fall of senior year: Take the last SAT
• October of senior year: Take the SAT for the last time (if necessary)
• November of senior year: Submit early decision applications (if applicable)
• December of senior year: Submit regular decision applications
• January/February of senior year: Submit financial aid applications (if applicable)
• March/April of senior year: Receive college acceptance decisions

By following this timeline and considering all relevant deadlines, students can ensure that their SAT scores are submitted on time and have the best possible chance of being accepted to the colleges of their choice.

Final Thoughts

The SAT application timeline is essential for students preparing for college admissions. By planning and considering all relevant deadlines, students can ensure that their SAT scores are submitted on time and that they have the best possible chance of being accepted to the colleges of their choice. Remember to take the first SAT in the spring of junior year, take the last in the fall of senior year, and consider all relevant deadlines when creating an SAT application timeline. With careful planning and preparation, students can successfully navigate college admissions and achieve their academic goals.