A Step-by-Step Guide of SAT registration
You’ve decided to take the SAT—that’s a huge step! The next one is making it official by completing your sat registration. The process can seem a little intimidating, but it’s actually very straightforward.
This guide will walk you through every step of the online registration process, from creating your account to printing your admission ticket, ensuring you’re all set for test day.
Before You Begin: What You’ll Need
To make your sat registration as smooth as possible, gather these items before you start:
- A Clear Digital Photo: You’ll need a recent headshot that meets the College Board’s specific requirements (think a school photo or passport-style picture).
- Your High School Information: The name and code of your high school.
- A Form of Payment: A credit card or other payment method for the registration fee. (We’ll cover fee waivers below).
- About 30 Minutes: While you can save your progress and come back, it’s easiest to get it done in one sitting.
Step 1: Create a College Board Account
Your entire SAT journey lives on the College Board website. If you don’t already have an account from taking the PSAT, you’ll need to create one.
- Action: Go to the College Board website and click “Create Account.”
- Important: Use your full, legal name as it appears on your photo ID (like a passport or national ID card). This is crucial for being admitted to the test center. You must register for yourself; a parent or counselor cannot do it for you.
Step 2: Start Your Registration
Once you’re logged in, navigate to the SAT section of the website and find the button to “Register for the SAT.” Here, you’ll fill out your personal information and a student survey. While some survey questions are optional, they can help connect you with colleges and scholarship programs through the Student Search Service.
Step 3: Choose Your Test Date and Center
This is where you’ll select your preferred sat test dates.
- Action: A calendar will show you the available dates. Choose the one that best fits your study plan and college application deadlines.
- Find a Test Center: You can then search for test centers near you. It’s a good idea to have a few options in mind, as popular locations can fill up quickly.
- Not sure which date to pick? Check out our guide to the Official SAT Test Dates to help you decide.
Step 4: Upload Your Photo
Now it’s time for that photo you prepared. The College Board has strict photo requirements to ensure security. Your photo must:
- Be a clear picture of only you.
- Show your full face, with both eyes visible.
- Not have any filters or digital alterations.
- Be taken against a plain background.
Follow the on-screen instructions to upload and crop your photo correctly.
Step 5: Review Your Order and Pay
You’re almost there! On the final screen, you’ll review all the information you’ve entered. Double-check everything carefully, especially your name, birthdate, and test center location.
- Payment: You’ll pay the registration fee at this stage.
- Fee Waivers: If you are an eligible low-income student, you can use a fee waiver to take the SAT for free. Talk to your school counselor to see if you qualify and to get a fee waiver code to enter during this step.
Step 6: Print Your Admission Ticket
Congratulations, your sat registration is complete! The final, and most important, step is to print your Admission Ticket. You will not be allowed into the test center without it.
Keep your Admission Ticket in a safe place along with the photo ID you plan to use on test day.
With registration out of the way, you can now focus 100% on your preparation. You’ve set your date, secured your spot, and you’re officially on your way.
You’re registered! The next step is practice. Try our free Digital SAT Practice Test to see where you stand.
