If you’re planning on taking the SAT or ACT in 2020, you’re in luck; tests are offered almost every month of the year. 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 should you target?
February 8, 2020 – ACT
— This is an excellent test for juniors unencumbered by winter sports or activities to target, now that the February ACT is offered in New York.
March 14, 2020 – SAT
— March is usually an excellent time for juniors to take the SAT. Keep in mind that the May and June SATs may conflict with other test commitments like APs, finals, or SAT Subject Tests.
April 4, 2020 – ACT
— April can be an excellent test for juniors to target, definitely one of the most popular of the year.
May 2, 2020 – SAT
— AP students have other priorities in May, so this may be a better date for SAT Subject Tests.
June 6, 2020 – SAT
June 13, 2020 – 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 18, 2020 – ACT
— ACT offers a summer test date that may be perfect as a follow-up for students who didn’t reach their score goals in June. However, no test centers are scheduled in New York or internationally for the July test date.
August 29, 2020 – 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 12, 2020 – ACT
— September is an excellent time for juniors and seniors to take the ACT.
October 3, 2020 – SAT
October 24, 2020 – ACT
— October is not only an excellent month for seniors to test, but prepared juniors can actually sit for the SAT and ACT before their PSAT. Think about it!
November 7, 2020 – SAT
— The November test is ideal for juniors and seniors who have prepped but haven’t already earned their best SAT scores yet.
December 5, 2020 – SAT
December 12, 2020 – 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