The SAT is a key part of applying to college. Understanding how your SAT scores are used, knowing important deadlines, and meeting college requirements can help you succeed. This guide covers everything you need to know about the SAT and college admissions, helping you understand what is a good SAT score and how to improve your SAT score.
Colleges use SAT scores to assess your readiness for college-level work. A strong score can make your application stand out. While many colleges are test-optional, a good score can still be a valuable asset. When preparing for the English section of the SAT, using a study app like Panchi can help you improve your skills with a large question bank and leaderboards to track your progress. For a comparison of the SAT vs ACT, see our detailed guide.
Keeping track of SAT test dates and registration deadlines is crucial. Missing a deadline could mean you can’t take the test in time for your college applications. Plan to take the SAT during your junior year to leave time for a potential retake. You can find official test dates on the College Board website.
Each college has its own SAT score expectations. Research the schools you’re interested in to find their average SAT score ranges for admitted students. This will give you a target score to aim for. Many colleges that require the SAT will list their specific requirements on their admissions website. For those looking for a free SAT practice test, resources like Khan Academy SAT and the College Board Bluebook are excellent places to start.
Once you have your scores, you’ll need to send them to the colleges you’re applying to. You can send your scores through your College Board account. There are options to send scores for free when you register for the test, or you can send them later for a fee. Make sure to send your scores well before application deadlines. If you’re looking for SAT tutoring, there are many options available, including online tutoring and sat tutoring near me.
