SAT 2026 Test Dates in India
Planning to study at a top university in the US or abroad? Then the SAT is likely your first big step. Over 2 million students take this exam every year, so you are in good company. However, the process can feel a bit overwhelming if you don’t have the right information.
From creating your account to hitting that final “submit” button, getting your registration right is crucial. A simple mistake, like a name mismatch or missing a deadline can delay your application.
In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process, break down the fees (in USD and INR), and highlight the key SAT exam registration dates you need to know for the upcoming 2026 intake.
What Is the SAT Exam?
The SAT is a standardized test conducted by the College Board. It is now fully digital and shorter than before, making it a smoother experience for students.
- Purpose: Used for undergraduate admission to colleges in the US and other countries.
- Format: Digital (taken on a laptop/tablet).
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
- Sections: Reading & Writing, and Math.
- Total Questions: 98 questions.
- Score Range: 400–1600.
Knowing the exam format is great, but knowing the SAT exam dates is even better. This ensures you have enough time to prepare and retake the test if needed.
SAT Exam Registration Process 2026
Ready to book your seat? Follow this simple step-by-step guide to ensure you don’t miss the SAT exam registration dates and secure your preferred center.
- Create an Account: Go to the College Board website and sign up.
- Fill in Details: Enter your personal information exactly as it appears on your Passport.
- Select Test Date: Choose from the available SAT exam dates (listed below).
- Choose a Center: Select a test center. There are about 85 centers in India, but they fill up fast!
- Upload Photo: Upload a clear, recent digital photo of yourself.
- Pay the Fee: Complete the payment using an international credit card or approved payment method.
SAT Registration Fee Structure
Budgeting for your exam is important. Below is the fee breakdown for the 2025-2026 cycle.
|
Fee Type |
Cost (USD) |
Cost (INR Approx.) |
|
Base SAT Exam Fee |
$68 |
₹6,031 |
|
International Regional Fee |
+$43 |
₹3,813 |
|
Total Fee for Indian Students |
$111 |
₹9,844 |
|
Late Registration Fee |
$30 |
₹2,700 |
|
Rescheduling Fee |
$30 |
₹2,700 |
Note: Fees include the base registration plus the international regional fee.
SAT Registration Dates 2026
To get your desired test center, you must keep an eye on the schedule. Below are the upcoming SAT exam dates and the deadlines you need to meet.
|
SAT Exam Date |
Registration Deadline |
Score Release Date |
|
December 7, 2025 |
Nov 7, 2025 |
Dec 22, 2025 |
|
March 14, 2026 |
Feb 27, 2026 |
March 29, 2026 |
|
May 2, 2026 |
April 17, 2026 |
May 18, 2026 |
|
June 6, 2026 |
May 22, 2026 |
June 21, 2026 |
Tip: Mark these SAT exam registration dates on your calendar so you don’t have to pay the late fee!
SAT Registration Through School (Offline Method)
While most students register online individually, some schools offer “SAT School Day.
- Bulk Registration: Your school counsellor handles the registration for a group of students.
- Convenience: You take the test at your own school on a weekday rather than a weekend.
- Payment: Schools may collect the fee directly or provide a voucher code.
Check Eligibility: Ask your school counsellor if your institution participates in this program.
Documents Required for SAT Registration
You cannot take the exam without proper identification. For students in India, the requirements are strict.
- Valid Passport: This is the only acceptable ID for testing in India. It must be original and not expired.
- Admission Ticket: You must print this or have it ready on your device via the Bluebook app.
- Acceptable Photo: A clear headshot (no filters, no sunglasses) uploaded during registration.
Payment Method: A valid credit/debit card or PayPal account to pay the fees.
How to Choose Your SAT Test Centre?
Choosing the right center can make a big difference in your comfort level on test day.
- Check Availability Early: Seats at popular centers fill up weeks before the SAT exam registration dates close.
- Location: Choose a center close to home to avoid traffic stress.
- Facilities: Most international schools serve as centers and usually offer good infrastructure.
Plan B: If your city is full, look for centers in nearby cities immediately.
Common SAT Registration Mistakes to Avoid
A small error can lead to your registration being cancelled. Watch out for these common pitfalls:
- Name Mismatch: Ensure the name on your College Board account matches your Passport letter-for-letter.
- Late Registration: Waiting until the last minute often leads to paying the extra $30 (₹2,700) late fee.
- Ignoring Deadlines: If you miss the SAT exam registration dates, you cannot take the test.
- Blurry Photo: If your photo is not identifiable, you may be denied entry to the test center.
SAT Registration Fee Waiver (For Eligible Students)
Fee waivers can cover the cost of the SAT, but they are generally limited.
- Eligibility: Primarily for low-income students in the US or US citizens living abroad.
- International Students: Waivers are rare for non-US citizens but may be available through specific non-profit organizations.
- How to Get It: You must contact a school counsellor or an authorized agency to request a waiver code.
- Benefits: Includes 2 free SAT tests and unlimited score reports to universities.
How to Edit or Cancel SAT Registration?
Plans change. If you cannot make it to the test, here is what you can do:
- Rescheduling: You can change your test date or center up to 5 days before the exam. The fee is $30 (₹2,700).
- Cancellation: If you cancel 5 days before the test, you may receive a partial refund.
- Process: Log in to your College Board account, select your registration, and follow the options to “Change Registration.”
- Timing: Always try to reschedule rather than cancel to save money and keep your study momentum going.
Conclusion
Planning your SAT early helps you secure your preferred SAT exam dates, avoid late fees, and reduce last-minute stress. When you follow the right steps, stay aware of SAT exam registration dates, and prepare consistently, the process becomes smooth and manageable.
When you organise documents, prepare your photo, and understand fee rules in advance, the entire process becomes smooth and stress-free. Always double-check deadlines, especially if you study in a school that handles registrations. Use this guide to stay organised and register confidently for the 2026 SAT cycle.
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Have a question?
The SAT exam fee is USD 68. For students in India, there is an additional international fee of USD 43, making the total USD 111.
An 800 is the minimum SAT score (out of 1600). It is not considered competitive for most universities. Good scores usually start from 1200+, depending on the college.
You should apply for SAT 2026 between mid-2025 and early 2026, depending on your target college deadlines. Register at least 2–3 months in advance.
Ideally, start SAT preparation 6–9 months before the test date to allow enough time for concept building, practice tests, and improvement.
The SAT is conducted 7 times a year, typically in March, May, June, August, October, November, and December.
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