After years of confusion about college requirements and testing dates, students are receiving some clarity about whether they need to take the ACT and SAT to apply to college. Some schools and school systems have chosen to go test optional while others have reaffirmed that they want to see these test scores. The 2022-2023 school year is underway, and many students are preparing to take the ACT and SAT. Part of that preparation means giving yourself adequate time to register and study for the test while leaving enough time to complete applications for college and scholarships. Below are the national dates for both the ACT and SAT in the U.S.
| ACT Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration | Scores Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 10, 2022 | August 5, 2022 | August 19, 2022 | September 24, 2022** |
| October 22, 2022 | September 16, 2022 | September 30, 2022 | November 5, 2022** |
| December 10, 2022 | November 4, 2022 | November 11, 2022 | December 24, 2022** |
| February 11, 2023 | January 6, 2023 | January 20, 2023 | February 25, 2023** |
| April 15, 2023 | March 10, 2023 | March 24, 2023 | April 29, 2023** |
| June 10, 2023 | May 5, 2023 | May 19, 2023 | June 24, 2023** |
| July 15, 2023* | June 16, 2023 | June 23, 2023 | August 29, 2023** |
Learn more about registering for the ACT.
| SAT Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration | Scores Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 1, 2022 | September 2, 2022 | Sept 20, 2022 | October 15, 2022 |
| November 5, 2022 | October 7, 2022 | Oct 25, 2022 | November 19, 2022 |
| December 3, 2022 | November 3, 2022 | Nov 22, 2022 | December 17. 2022 |
| March 11, 2023 | February 10, 2023 | Feb 28, 2023 | March 25, 2023 |
| May 6, 2023 | April 7, 2023 | Apr 25, 2023 | May 20, 2023 |
| June 3, 2023 | May 4, 2023 | May 23, 2023 | June 17, 2023 |
Learn more about registering for the SAT.
Are the tables above accurate?
We pull the information for these test dates from a variety of sources, including from the ACT and CollegeBoard (the makers of the SAT) when available. Sometimes we pull information from unofficial sources to help with our predictions. This is especially true with score report dates as this information is not always listed on the official sites, and there may always be some variation between when the listed time and when you actually receive your scores. Generally, it takes 2-3 weeks after you take the test. Keep in mind that all dates may be subject to change as the year progresses.
Which test should I take?
The ACT and SAT have a lot of similarities (especially since the College Board revamped the SAT), but there are many differences as well. It’s always best to consider how you approach testing and what kinds of challenges you might face. If you find that you often run out of time for the different sections of a test, you might want to consider the SAT as it gives you a little more time per question. On the other hand, if math isn’t your thing, you might want to look to the ACT as it is a little more well-rounded in the subjects it covers and math only makes up 25% of the score instead of 50%. We’ve gone through all the differences in each test and compared them in another post, so check it out if you’re looking for more in-depth information to help you make your decision.
When should I take the ACT/SAT?
For best results, plan to take the ACT or SAT multiple times as many students see their scores increase over time. We recommend taking the test(s) at least 2-3 times, taking your first exam no later than the spring semester of your junior year. This gives you plenty of time to study and improve if your first score is less than desirable. If you are planning to apply to schools for early decision; however, you should start earlier – possibly as early as the summer before junior year.
How many times should I take the ACT/SAT?
How many times you take the ACT/SAT depends on if your initial score meets your expectations. We recommend thinking hard about whichever colleges interest you the most and looking at the average scores of the students they accept. That will give you a good benchmark to weigh your score against and will help you decide whether you need to improve your score. Most students want to improve their scores after they take the test for the first time, so plan on taking one or both at least twice.
How long should I study for the ACT/SAT?
For best results, we suggest taking at least 2 months (preferably longer) between tests to go over study material and review concepts. Keep in mind that it takes 2-3 weeks to get scores back from the ACT/College Board, so if you want to use those scores (or the previous questions and answer keys) to help you study, plan for longer. If you’re taking tests back to back, your scores probably won’t improve by much.
Do I need a tutor for the ACT/SAT?
If you’re not satisfied with your scores and you find that your scores are not improving, especially after months of studying, you likely need some help. There are a variety of ways tutors can help students studying for the test. Tutors can help students review the essential information, concepts, and formulas they need for the test; review test-taking strategies; and/or show you how to use your time efficiently to get that coveted perfect score.
If you need a tutor, give us a call. We have helped students with all the situations above, and our students see significant increases in their scores after roughly 8 sessions (8 hours) with one of our tutors.
Looking for ACT/SAT Tips? Try these blog posts:
40 Things You Should Know For The ACT
48 Things You Should Know For The SAT
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