The SAT is traditionally offered once a month during the school year at different high schools across the country.
It is important to plan ahead to find a test center near you and to account for registration deadlines.
The SAT takes place at HAHS in November and March each year.
When should students take the SAT?
Typically, students looking at college can consider taking the SAT during the spring of their junior year (March, May, June). Then, if they want to improve their score, they can take it again during the fall of their senior year (August, October, November).
Students should take the SAT absolutely no later than December of their senior year if they want to use their score for college applications.
Who should take the SAT?
- Students looking to study STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) or healthcare (Nursing, Physician Assistant, Physical Therapy, Pre-Med, etc.) should plan to take the SAT, as most colleges require test scores for those programs.
- Students looking to apply to selective colleges (schools with a competitive, low acceptance rate) should plan to take the SAT, as it can reflect positively on a student’s college application.
- Many colleges publicly identify the average range of test scores for admitted students, and knowing where you fit in that range is beneficial when applying to schools.
Ultimately, it is each student’s decision whether or not the SAT is beneficial to their college admissions journey based on what they want to study in college, where they want to apply, and their HS academic record. Many colleges have “test optional” admissions policies, meaning students are not required to report test scores when applying.
For more information and guidance on whether you or your student should consider taking the SAT, please reach out to the HS College & Career Adviser.
Can I get a fee waiver?
Students who receive free/reduced price lunch are eligible for a fee waiver, allowing them to take the test twice for free. Waivers are a digital code of letters/numbers that is specifically assigned to a student. When you enter your code online on your CollegeBoard account while registering for the SAT, it will waive the registration price for 2 exams.
To see if you qualify, or to receive your fee waiver code, stop by the Guidance Office or contact your school counselor or the college & career adviser prior to SAT registration.