Last Updated On: May 17th, 2020
New Summer SAT Test Date Gives Students More Flexibility
The College Board recently made a welcome addition to its schedule: a new SAT test date at the end of August, starting on August 26, 2017. This administration will replace the less popular January test date.
There are several benefits for this late summer option:
- Students who prepare for the SAT over the summer can get the test over with before they get overwhelmed with school, or in some cases before school even starts. This also allows summer preppers to take the test while their SAT-specific skills are fresh in their minds.
- An August test date may be ideal for students who wish to apply early decision because it allows two more options—October and November—before applications are due.
- The College Board has announced that colleges will be allowed to host the August test, giving students an opportunity to both visit a prospective school and get the test out of the way.
One challenge of the August test is that, because some high schools aren’t open yet, the test might not be offered at all of the usual test sites. Since it may be a popular option and locations may be limited, students who wish to register for the August 26, 2017 test are advised to do so well before the July 28 deadline (and definitely before the August 15 late deadline). Test-takers should also call or email their chosen test site to make sure it has air-conditioning, as the weather might be distractingly hot in a site without it. Registration is not yet open for the August test, so be sure to check the College Board’s website regularly once you know your plans.
Though there are many potential benefits for students who prepare over the summer, students who don’t wish to make SAT prep part of their summer plans should stay away from the August test, as they will likely find it hard to get into “test mode” after a couple months out of school.
Whatever college-bound students decide, the late August test gives them one more option and allows more flexibility as they navigate the demanding application process.
