We hope this will answer some of your questions about the test – of course, there’s no substitute for personalized advice. So, call to schedule a free meeting with one of our counselors!

When should I take the SAT?
The earliest that any student should test is January of his or her junior year. This is a good test option for students who are well-prepared and may have multiple AP tests in May. For other students, May of the junior year is the ideal time (with SAT II scheduled for June). If they are unhappy with May scores, students may re-test in the fall of their senior year.

How many times can I re-test?
There is no hard cut-off, but taking the SAT more than three times is not recommended. Scores rarely go up after the third exam, and too many tests can look obsessive.

Can I take the ACT instead of the SAT?
Yes and no. Yes, the ACT can substitute for the SAT – but the test is not offered outside of the US. So for students living in China for the school year, it’s not a viable option.

Where do I take the test? How do I register?
Students at certain international schools can test on their campuses; register at school with your guidance counselor.  Other international students and all Chinese passport holders will have to test outside of mainland China.  Register at www.collegeboard.com for test sites in Hong Kong or elsewhere in the world.