How do you register for the SAT or ACT?

When are the SAT/ACT test dates? Registration deadlines? Fees? Should you register with the essay? How do you apply for accommodations? We’ll answer these questions here!

SAT Registration Info 2023-2024

Where do you register for the SAT?

You can register on the College Board website.

Should you order the Student Answer Service (SAS)?

Do not order the the Student Answer Service (SAS). It provides very little value. The similarly named Question-And-Answer Service (QAS) was extremely valuable, but was discontinued with the introduction of the digital SAT.

Should you register with or without the optional SAT essay?

In 2021, the College Board discontinued the SAT essay.

Should you have your SAT scores automatically sent to colleges?

Almost always no. There are some exceptions, such as recruited athletes or students up against impending application deadlines, but most students should wait until they see their scores and then send them to colleges later. Because you can pick and choose which scores to send, this allows you to only show colleges your best score(s).

Additionally, most colleges allow students to self-report scores on their application. In other words, you don’t need to send scores at all to apply. They’ll only ask you to send scores (to verify you told the truth) after you’re admitted and/or committed to attend. Please check with each college you’re applying to, as score reporting policies vary by college.

How do you apply for accommodations on the SAT?

You can read more about SAT accommodations here.

Concerned about the cost of taking the SAT?

Learn more about SAT fee waivers and check your eligibility.

ACT Registration Info 2023-2024

Where do you register for the ACT?

You can register on the ACT website.

Should you sign up for the paper ACT or digital ACT?

PAPER!! Do not register for the digital ACT. The digital ACT is poorly formatted with a challenging interface. Students perform significantly better on the paper ACT.

Should you order the Test Information Release (TIR)?

We HIGHLY recommend you order the Test Information Release (TIR), if available. This will provide you with a copy of the test, which is excellent material to review if you end up taking the test again.

Should you register with the optional Writing section?

The US Military Academy (West Point) is currently the only major 4-year institution that requires the ACT Writing section. Unless you’re applying to West Point, don’t bother with the essay.

Should you automatically send ACT scores to colleges?

Almost always no. There are some exceptions, such as recruited athletes or students up against impending application deadlines, but most students should wait until they see their scores and then send them to colleges later. Because you can pick and choose which scores to send, this allows you to only show colleges your best score(s).

Additionally, most colleges allow students to self-report scores on their application. In other words, you don’t need to send scores at all to apply. They’ll only ask you to send scores (to verify you told the truth) after you’re admitted and/or committed to attend. Please check with each college you’re applying to, as score reporting policies vary by college.

How do you apply for accommodations on the ACT?

You can read more about ACT accommodations here.

Concerned about the cost of taking the ACT?

Learn more about ACT fee waivers and check your eligibility.