The 2019-2020 school year is near, 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. UPDATE (3/30/20): The April ACT has been rescheduled for June 6 and the May SAT has been cancelled.

ACT Date	Registration Deadline	Late Registration	Scores Available
September 14, 2019	August 16, 2019	August 17 - 30, 2019	September 28, 2019**
October 26, 2019	September 20, 2019	September 21 - October 4, 2019	November 9, 2019**
December 14, 2019	November 8, 2019	November 9 - 22, 2019	December 28, 2019**
February 8, 2020*	January 10, 2020	January 11 - 17, 2020	February 22, 2020**
April 4, 2020	February 28, 2020	February 29 - March 13, 2020	April 18, 2020**
June 13, 2020	May 8, 2020	May 9 -22, 2020	June 27, 2020**
July 18, 2020*	June 19, 2020	June 20 - 26, 2020	August 1, 2020**

Learn more about registering for the ACT.

SAT Date	Registration Deadline	Late Registration	Scores Available
August 24, 2019	July 26, 2019	August 6, 2019 (mailed) August 13, 2019 (online or phone)	September 7, 2019
October 5, 2019	September 6, 2019	September 17, 2019 (mailed); September 24, 2019 (online or phone)	October 19, 2019
November 2, 2019	October 3, 2019	October 15, 2019 (mailed); October 22, 2019 (online or phone)	November 16, 2019
December 7, 2019	November 8, 2019	November 19, 2019 (mailed); November 26, 2019 (online or phone)	December 21. 2019
March 14, 2020	February 14, 2020	February 25, 2020 (mailed); March 3, 2020 (online or phone)	March 28, 2020
May 2, 2019	April 3, 2020	April 14, 2020 (mailed); April 21, 2020 (online or phone)	May 16, 2020
June 6, 2019	May 8, 2019	May 19, 2020 (mailed); May 27, 2020 (online or phone)	June 20, 2020

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 Want more guidance? Join our Going To College Newsletter!

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