If you’re planning on taking the SAT or ACT this year, you’re in luck; tests are offered just about every month of the academic year and even during one lovely summer month. Picking the right date—and prepping for it–demands advance planning. But failure to plan typically leads to lots of stress and minimal success. So which test dates are you targeting?
Jan 21, 2017 – SAT
— This was the last January SAT date, which will be replaced going forward with an August SAT administration.
Feb 11, 2017 – ACT
— This is generally a good test to target, but there are no test centers in New York for the February ACT.
Mar 11, 2017 – SAT
— This is an excellent test for juniors to target.
Apr 8, 2017 – ACT
— This is an excellent test for juniors to target and one of the most popular of the year.
May 06, 2017 – SAT
— AP students have other priorities in May, so this may be a better date for SAT Subject Tests.
Jun 03, 2017 – SAT
Jun 10, 2017 – ACT
— Many schools administer final exams in early- to mid-June, so this may be a better date for SAT Subject Tests. Then again, if you haven’t earned your best scores yet, you may want to take your last shot before senior year.
SUMMER BREAK
— This happens to be an ideal time for rising juniors and seniors to prep.
Aug. 26, 2017 – SAT
— The first summer SAT administration promises to be popular, especially with students smart enough to prep when school is out.
Sep 9, 2017 – ACT
— This is another great test date to target.
Oct. 7, 2017 – SAT
— This is not only an excellent test date for seniors, but prepared juniors can actually sit for the SAT before their PSAT. Think about it!
Oct 28, 2017 – ACT
— This is a prime date for juniors and seniors alike.
Nov. 4, 2017 – SAT
— No reason not to take this test if you haven’t already earned your best SAT scores.
Dec. 2, 2017 – SAT
Dec 9, 2017 – ACT
— December is late for most seniors, but perfect for juniors looking to lock in their best scores before the holidays.
Regular registration deadlines for tests typically fall one month from the testing date, so register well in advance. Also keep in mind that many states and districts now use the SAT or ACT for assessment purposes, which means additional local exam options.
Mike Bergin