Be sure to check the admission requirements of your potential colleges or universities to determine if they have a preference for the SAT or ACT for admission. Note that test scores are only part of a student’s review for admission; coursework, grades, and activities also weigh into the evaluation. Students/families are responsible for registering themselves for any test dates. Information can be found in the College and Career Center in each high school. Qualified students may be eligible for testing fee assistance.
PSAT/NMSQT
The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is a standardized test administered by the College Board and co-sponsored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Upcoming dates:
- October 1-31, 2025
SAT
The Scholastic Aptitude Test, or SAT, is published by the College Board and is used to assess college readiness. The SAT comprises testing in critical reading, mathematics, and an optional essay writing section. Anticipated test dates:
- August 23, 2025
- October 4, 2025
- November 8, 2025
- December 6, 2025
- March 14, 2026
- May 2, 2026
- June 6, 2026
ACT
The American College Testing, or ACT, college readiness assessment is a composite, standardized test in four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science. The optional writing test has students plan and write a short essay. Anticipated test dates:
- September 6, 2025
- October 25, 2025
- December 6, 2025
- February 6, 2026
- April 10, 2026
- June 6, 2026
- July 11, 2026
Students should investigate when SAT/ACT scores are expected at the colleges they are interested in. They should backward-map to the test date to ensure they will meet timelines. Additionally, please be aware that many colleges have adjusted SAT/ACT requirements over the past few years. Be sure to reference the most up to date information on the college website.