2025–2026 SAT & ACT Testing Guide

Key Dates, Prep Strategy, and a Free Planner for College-Bound Students

If you’re applying to college in 2026 or 2027, now is the time to plan your SAT and ACT timeline. The right testing strategy can give you a real edge in admissions and scholarships—but the wrong timing can limit your options. This guide outlines everything you need to know to navigate the 2025–2026 testing season with clarity and confidence.

2025–2026 SAT & ACT Test Dates

Below are the national test dates confirmed or anticipated for the 2025–2026 school year. Use these to plan your timeline backward from application deadlines.

*Dates marked with an asterisk are based on past-year patterns and are expected but not yet confirmed.

Strategic Planning: How to Choose the Right Test Dates

1. Work Backward From Application Deadlines

   Early Decision deadlines typically require scores by October or November. Regular Decision deadlines fall in January. Your final test attempt should be 4–6 weeks ahead of the deadline to allow for score processing.

   
   

2. Plan for Two (or More) Attempts

   Most students improve on a second or third test. Colleges often superscore, meaning they take your best section scores from different dates. Build in time for a retake.

   
   

3. Align Test Dates With Your Prep Timeline

   You’ll need at least 8–10 weeks of focused prep per attempt. Don’t schedule a test unless you know you can carve out consistent time to prepare.

   
   

4. Avoid Conflicts With Major Events

   Make sure you’re not testing during finals week, AP exams, or the weekend of a big performance, game, or family commitment. Choose dates where you can show up focused and rested.

Registration Links & Reminders

Register early to get your preferred test center and avoid late fees:

• SAT: satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration

• ACT: my.act.org

Fee waivers are available for students who qualify. If you’re not sure how to apply, talk to your school counselor.

Why Early Test Planning Still Matters

Even with many schools going test-optional, SAT and ACT scores remain one of the few ways students can stand out nationally. High scores can:

• Improve your admission odds

• Qualify you for scholarships

• Support your application if your GPA is lower than you’d like

Testing early gives you more control, more chances, and more confidence.

Get the Free 2025–2026 Test Prep Planner

Stay on top of every deadline with our printable calendar:

It includes all major test dates and registration deadlines.

Get Score Support That Delivers

At Tried & True, we’ve helped thousands of students raise their scores and reduce stress. Our team of expert educators offers:

• SAT and ACT tutoring (1-on-1 or group)

• Practice exams with scoring

• Test-taking strategy workshops

• Flexible prep options that fit your schedule

Whether you’re aiming for a scholarship or just want a higher composite, we’ll help you build a plan that works—and stick to it.