SAT Score Release Dates in 2026: Complete Schedule

The College Board typically releases Digital SAT scores 2 to 4 weeks after test day. In our experience, most students receive their scores closer to the 2-week mark. Below is the complete 2026 schedule along with everything you need to know about accessing your scores and sending them to colleges.

2026 Score Release Schedule

Below is the complete table of 2026 SAT test dates and their expected score release dates. Score release dates that have not yet been officially announced are estimated based on the College Board's typical 2-week turnaround.

2026 SAT test dates and expected score release dates. Dates without official announcements show estimated timelines.
Test DateExpected Score ReleaseApproximate Wait
March 14, 2026~2 weeks after test day (not yet announced)TBD
May 2, 2026~2 weeks after test day (not yet announced)TBD
June 6, 2026~2 weeks after test day (not yet announced)TBD
Pro Tip: Scores are usually released around 8:00 AM Eastern on the scheduled date. Check your College Board account first thing in the morning rather than waiting for the email notification, which can arrive hours later.

When Will You Get Your Scores?

The Typical Timeline

The College Board has streamlined their score release process for the Digital SAT. While they officially state that scores will be available within 2 to 4 weeks after test day, our data shows that the vast majority of students receive their scores around the 2-week mark.

What Can Delay Your Scores

Score release dates can occasionally be delayed. Common reasons include:

Common reasons for SAT score release delays and their typical impact on timeline.
Delay ReasonTypical Impact
Technical issues during test administration1-2 additional days
Random security review of your testUp to 2 additional weeks
Testing irregularities at your test centerUp to 3 additional weeks
Suspected misconduct investigationScores may be cancelled entirely
Warning: In rare cases, scores may be cancelled entirely if the College Board suspects cheating or misconduct. If this occurs, your scores will not be released to you or any colleges, you will be notified of the cancellation, and the test fee is typically not refunded.

How Colleges Process SAT Scores

Once your scores are released by the College Board, colleges process them at different rates. Understanding this timeline is important when planning around application deadlines.

How SAT scores flow from the College Board to your college application.
StageTimeline
Scores released to studentsScore release date (see schedule above)
Colleges receive scores electronically1-2 days after release to students
College processing and matching to applicationA few days to several weeks, depending on institution
Scores visible in your application portalVaries — check your portal or contact admissions

During peak application seasons — especially around early decision and early action deadlines — processing times may be longer. We recommend sending your scores to colleges well before application deadlines to account for this.

Accessing Your Scores

How to View Your Score Report

When your scores are ready, you will receive an email notification from the College Board. To view your scores:

  1. Log in to your College Board account at collegeboard.org
  2. Navigate to "My SAT" or "SAT Scores"
  3. Your total score, section scores, and detailed breakdown will be displayed

What Your Score Report Includes

Components included in your SAT score report from the College Board.
ComponentDetails
Total ScoreYour combined score on the 400-1600 scale
Section ScoresIndividual scores for Math (200-800) and Reading/Writing (200-800)
Performance InsightsDetailed breakdown of your strengths and areas for improvement
Score Send StatusConfirmation of which colleges have received your scores
Percentile RankHow your score compares to other test takers

Sending Scores to Colleges

Free and Paid Score Sends

The College Board allows you to send scores for free to up to four colleges when you register for the SAT. After that, each additional score send costs $14. You can send scores through your College Board account at any time after your scores are released.

Score Choice and Superscoring

The College Board's Score Choice policy lets you choose which SAT scores to send to colleges. Many colleges also superscore the SAT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test dates to create the best possible composite score. Check each college's score policy before deciding which scores to send.

Good News: If a college superscores, you can send all your test dates confidently — they will only consider your highest section scores.
Score Release Day Checklist0/6 complete

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get SAT scores?

The College Board typically releases Digital SAT scores 2 to 4 weeks after test day. In practice, most students receive their scores closer to the 2-week mark. You will receive an email notification when your scores are available in your College Board account.

Can SAT score release dates be delayed?

Yes. Score releases can occasionally be delayed due to technical issues during test administration, random security reviews, or testing irregularities at specific test centers. In rare cases, scores may be cancelled entirely if the College Board suspects misconduct.

How do I send SAT scores to colleges?

You can send scores for free to up to four colleges when you register for the SAT. After that, additional score sends cost $14 each through your College Board account. Most colleges receive scores electronically within 1-2 days after they are released to students.

What is included in my SAT score report?

Your SAT score report includes your total score on the 400-1600 scale, section scores for Math and Reading/Writing, detailed performance insights and benchmarks, and the status of any score sends to colleges.

Should I wait for my SAT scores before applying to college?

If your application deadline is within a few weeks of your test date, send scores to colleges in advance. Colleges understand processing timelines. For early decision or action deadlines, take the SAT at least two test dates before the deadline so you have time to retake if needed.