SAT test dates 2026-2027
6 min read · updated 2026-09-23
Fall 2026 Digital SAT sittings are live now. If your child is aiming for October, November or December, the registration clock and the prep clock both matter. Here is the calendar, then a realistic prep window for each date.
Fall 2026 weekend dates
College Board lists these weekend sittings for all students (US and international): 22 August, 12 September, 3 October, 7 November and 5 December 2026. Regular registration closes about two weeks before each date; late registration is available with a fee.
October, November and December are the busiest college-application windows. Students who still need a score for early action or regular decision usually target one of those three.
- ✓ 3 October 2026: register by 18 September (late by 22 September)
- ✓ 7 November 2026: register by 23 October (late by 27 October)
- ✓ 5 December 2026: register by 20 November (late by 24 November)
Spring 2027 dates (for juniors planning ahead)
Spring weekend dates are 6 March, 1 May and 5 June 2027. Many Year 11 / Grade 11 students sit March or May, then decide whether a June retake is worth it.
How many weeks of prep before each date
A Light polish (about 12 tutoring hours) needs 4-6 weeks. A Standard package (about 24 hours) needs 8-10 weeks. Intensive work (40+ hours) needs 12 weeks or more plus independent practice. Counting back from 7 November, Standard prep should start by early September.
School Day and PSAT windows in October are separate from weekend SATs. Confirm with the school if your child is testing in school.
FAQs
Is the SAT still digital in 2026?＋
Yes. Weekend and School Day SATs use the Bluebook digital adaptive format. Prep should match that format, not old paper books alone.
Which fall date should we pick?＋
Pick the earliest date that still leaves your child a full Standard prep block. Sitting early also leaves room for a December retake if needed.
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