If you’re planning on taking the SAT or ACT in 2018, you’re in luck; tests are offered almost every month of the academic year and even during the summer. 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?
February 10, 2018 – ACT
— This is generally a good test to target, but there are no test centers in New York for the February ACT.
March 10, 2018 – SAT
— This is an excellent test for juniors to target.
April 14, 2018 – ACT
— This is an excellent test for juniors to target and one of the most popular of the year.
May 5, 2018 – SAT
— AP students have other priorities in May, so this may be a better date for SAT Subject Tests.
June 2, 2018 – SAT
June 9, 2018 – 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, June is your last chance to finish the school year strong.
SUMMER BREAK
— Summer happens to be an ideal time for rising juniors and seniors to prep.
July 14, 2018 – ACT
— ACT added a summer test date that may be perfect as a follow-up for students who didn’t reach their goals on the June exam. However, this is the second ACT of the year for which New York hosts no test centers.
August 25, 2018 – SAT
— The summer SAT administration has become one of the most popular of the year, especially with students smart enough to prep when school is out.
September 8, 2018 – ACT
— This is another great test date to target.
October 6, 2018 – 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!
October 27, 2018 – ACT
— This is a prime date for juniors and seniors alike.
November 3, 2018 – SAT
— No reason not to take this test if you haven’t already earned your best SAT scores.
December 1, 2018 – SAT
December 8, 2018 – 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. Plan ahead for success!
Mike Bergin