August vs September SAT: Double‑Sitting Playbook & Score‑Choice Math

Deciding whether to take the SAT in August or September depends on your study schedule, school workload, and college application deadlines. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

• August SAT: Offers uninterrupted summer study time (8–12 weeks), better for early application deadlines, but seats fill up fast.

• September SAT: Provides extra prep time if summer was unproductive, but overlaps with school and extracurriculars.

Quick Comparison

Key Tips:

• Double-Sitting Strategy: Take both tests to maximize superscoring opportunities.

• Registration: Secure seats early, especially for the August SAT, as demand is high.

• College Policies: Check if your target schools allow superscoring or require all test scores.

By planning ahead, you can choose the test date that aligns with your goals and maximize your chances of achieving your target score.

SAT to be offered in September!

August vs. September SAT: Main Differences

The August and September SAT dates each come with their own set of perks and challenges. Let’s break down the key differences so you can decide which option works best for you.

Study Time and School Schedule

The August SAT has a clear advantage when it comes to timing. Since it falls during summer break, students can dedicate 8–12 weeks to focused preparation without the distractions of schoolwork. On the other hand, preparing for the September SAT can be trickier. With school back in session, balancing homework, extracurriculars, and test prep can make study time feel more limited.

Another factor to weigh is how the test dates align with your college application schedule.

Test Scores and Application Deadlines

When it comes to college applications, score release dates are a big deal:

• August 23, 2025 SAT: Scores will be available by September 5, 2025.

• September 13, 2025 SAT: Scores will be released on September 26, 2025.

Colleges typically receive scores about 10 days after they’re released online. So, if you’re working against early application deadlines, the August test might give you a little extra breathing room.

Test Registration and Special Requirements

Logistics play a major role in choosing your test date. Here’s what you need to know:

• August SAT: Competition for seats can be intense. For example, in Spring 2024, Northern California had only 12 testing sites available, making it tough for students to secure a spot.

• September SAT: With schools back in session, there are generally more testing locations open, which can make registration a bit easier.

"In June 2024, Dora Yang, a junior at Burlingame High School, stayed overnight in a Dallas, Texas motel to take the SAT because of limited testing sites in Northern California".

Helpful tips for registration:

• Register early to lock in your preferred location.

• Be ready to travel if local testing centers fill up.

• Check the College Board website for deadlines and other details.

Choosing between the August and September SAT ultimately depends on your schedule, application timeline, and how far you’re willing to travel for a test center. Take these factors into account to make the best choice for your situation.

Score Reporting Between Two Tests

How Superscoring Works

Superscoring takes your highest section scores from multiple SAT attempts, even if those scores are from different test dates. For example, if you do well in Math during the August test but excel in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) in September, colleges that allow superscoring will combine your best scores from each section to calculate your total.

Here’s an example to illustrate how superscoring can boost your overall score:

Studies show that superscores provide a better reflection of a student’s abilities compared to scores from a single test sitting. This makes it easier to decide whether to keep your August score or plan for another attempt.

Keep or Retake: August Score Analysis

When deciding whether to stick with your August score or retake the SAT, consider these factors:

Retaking the SAT often leads to improved results. On average, a second attempt raises scores by 46 points, while superscoring can result in an increase of 88 points. This data supports the idea of taking the SAT multiple times, especially if your first score doesn’t meet your goals.

"With superscoring, you should feel more comfortable taking the SAT multiple times, in an effort to improve your scores and get more familiar and comfortable with the test experience - so your scores really reflect your best abilities."

Understanding your potential for improvement and how colleges handle scores is key to making an informed decision.

College Score Reporting Rules

Different colleges have varying policies when it comes to submitting SAT scores:

"Georgetown University does not participate in the Score Choice option available through the College Board. Georgetown requires that you submit scores from all test sittings of the SAT, ACT, and SAT Subject Tests."

"Although we permit Score Choice, we encourage students to submit their entire testing history for both ACT and SAT exams." - University of Pennsylvania

The College Board advises students to carefully review each college’s SAT score-use policy: "It's always a good idea to review the SAT score-use policy for each college on your list."

Colleges generally fall into one of three categories regarding SAT score policies:

• Test-Optional: You decide whether to submit your SAT scores.

• Test-Required: SAT or ACT scores are mandatory for admission.

• Test-Blind: Scores are not considered at all, even if submitted.

28-Day Break: Managing Test Preparation

Rest and Reset After the August Test

After completing the August test, take a short break to recharge before diving back into your preparation for September. Start with two days of light, relaxing activities to give your mind a chance to reset. Gradually ease into light review sessions before returning to more intensive study sessions. This pause is essential - it helps you recover mentally and physically while setting the stage for targeted improvement, a crucial part of the double-sitting strategy.

Zeroing in on Areas for Improvement

Use your August test results as a guide to pinpoint weak spots that need extra attention while continuing to build on your strengths. Once you’ve had time to rest, shift your focus to refining test strategies and addressing those specific areas.

Here’s a suggested weekly study plan to keep you on track:

Research supports the idea that short, focused study sessions are more effective than marathon cramming sessions. Try studying in 25-minute intervals with 5-minute breaks, and take a longer 15-minute break every couple of hours. For extended sessions, consider incorporating a 2–5 minute meditation to stay sharp.

Balancing School and SAT Prep

As the school year begins, it’s important to weave your SAT study plan into your daily routine in a way that feels manageable. A balanced approach is critical. According to College Board data, students who consistently study while keeping up with their schoolwork tend to see better improvements in their scores.

Here’s a sample daily routine to help you stay organized:

• Morning: Spend 30 minutes on SAT practice before heading to school.

• After School: Focus on completing your homework.

• Evening: Dedicate 60–90 minutes to SAT preparation.

• Weekend: Use this time for longer study sessions and full-length practice tests.

Track your progress regularly, and adjust your study focus based on your practice test results. Remember, spaced repetition - reviewing material over time - is far more effective than last-minute cramming.

Choosing Your Test Date

Step-by-Step Test Date Selection

When deciding between the August and September SAT dates, it’s all about timing: balancing summer study, the start of the school year, and your college application deadlines. The August 23, 2025 test happens before classes are back in session, while the September 13, 2025 test falls right as the school year kicks off. Here’s a quick look at the deadlines and score release dates for both:

These dates are important to consider alongside your study plans. For seniors, the August test can be a great option if you’ve had a productive summer study schedule. But if your summer prep didn’t go as planned, the September test gives you extra time to get back on track.

Keep in mind that colleges usually need about six weeks to fully process your scores. If you’re ordering additional score reports, add another 1–2 weeks for processing.

Score Goals and College Requirements

Once you’ve mapped out the timeline, the next step is to think about your score goals and how they align with your college application deadlines. Here’s a breakdown to help guide your decision:

Your summer plans and study habits are equally important when making your choice. If you’ve had a consistent study routine, the August date might be the way to go. But if you need more time to prepare, the September test offers a solid backup option.

Conclusion: Planning Your Test Schedule

Organizing your SAT schedule for August and September can make a big difference in your results. Research shows that 55% of seniors improve their scores by 40 points or more when they take the test twice. With this in mind, set clear goals and take advantage of the benefits of a double-sitting approach.

Dedication to consistent practice also pays off. Studies suggest that 1–2 months of preparation can lead to a 100-point increase, 2–3 months can add 200 points, and 3–6 months may boost your score by over 300 points. Starting your prep 3–6 months in advance gives you the best chance to maximize your score.

Here’s how you can finalize your test schedule:

• Evaluate your study progress: Review your summer study plan to see if you’re ready for the August SAT.

• Consider your school workload: If balancing new academic responsibilities feels overwhelming, the September test might be a better option.

• Check score policies at target schools: Some colleges superscore, others require all test attempts, and some allow score choice.

For the best results, focus on quality over quantity when it comes to practice. Short, daily study sessions are far more effective than cramming on weekends. Keep track of your progress to pinpoint areas that need improvement.

"Students should send the scores they want us to consider and superscore." – Syracuse University's Associate Director of Admissions.

This flexibility means taking both tests can help you achieve your best results. By using these strategies, you can confidently choose the test date that aligns with your college admission goals.

FAQs

Should I take both the August and September SAT, and how does superscoring affect this decision?

Why Superscoring Makes Taking Both the August and September SAT Worthwhile

Superscoring can significantly impact your SAT strategy, especially if you're debating whether to sit for both the August and September tests. This method allows you to combine the highest section scores from multiple test dates, creating your strongest possible overall score. For instance, if you crush the Math section in August but perform better in Reading and Writing in September, colleges that accept superscores will consider the best scores from each section - no matter the test date.

Taking both tests can be a strategic way to target and improve specific sections. The beauty of superscoring is that it highlights your top scores while disregarding any weaker performances, meaning a less-than-stellar result on one test won't drag down your application. This approach not only strengthens your college profile but also provides an extra opportunity to shine where it matters most.

How do I decide whether to take the SAT in August or September, considering college application deadlines?

When deciding between the August and September SAT dates, the first step is to check your college application deadlines. Many colleges have early decision deadlines in November and regular decision deadlines in January, which makes timing a key factor. Taking the SAT in August allows you to have your scores ready in time for early applications. On the other hand, the September SAT gives you a chance to refine your score if needed.

It’s also important to review each college’s policy on the latest acceptable test dates for submitting scores. This will help you figure out which test date fits best with your application schedule and overall goals.

How can I balance SAT prep with schoolwork if I’m taking the September SAT?

Balancing SAT prep with your regular schoolwork can feel like a juggling act, but a solid plan makes all the difference. Start by setting up a study schedule that fits seamlessly into your week. Aiming for 6-10 hours of SAT prep each week over a span of 2-3 months is a good target. Break this time into smaller, focused sessions to tackle specific subjects or practice tests - this prevents burnout and keeps your efforts productive.

To maintain your energy and focus, include stress-relief activities in your routine. Whether it’s a quick workout, some deep breathing exercises, or just a short break to clear your head, these moments help you recharge. Also, make use of resources that target your weaker areas, like practice questions or prep tools, to get the most out of your study time. The key here is consistency and finding the right balance between your school responsibilities and SAT preparation.

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