Why the SAT?
The SAT is an admissions requirement at many colleges across the country. The SAT helps to:
- Open doors to college
- Connect students to scholarship opportunities
- Increase access to AP and college credit
- Plan for careers via Big Future
Still have questions? Visit the SAT website for answers to common FAQs about the Digital SAT.
What is SAT School Day?
DCPS offers the PSAT and the SAT to students FREE of charge at their home school during the fall and the spring. Each DCPS high school selects its own testing date within the testing windows below.
SY24-25 School Day Testing Windows:
- 9-11th Grade PSAT: October 7-31, 2024
- 12th Grade SAT: October 7-31, 2024
- 11th Grade SAT: March 5-28, 2025
Questions about SAT School Day should be directed to your school's PSAT or SAT Testing Coordinator. Homeschool students interested in testing should reach out directly to Courtney Haddaway Delph at [email protected].
How Do I Prepare for the SAT?
According to the College Board, the best way to prepare for the SAT is to take challenging courses, study hard, and practice reading and writing both inside and outside the classroom. Cramming and short-term preparation cannot replace consistent hard work in school.
Taking the PSAT/NMSQT® is one of the most effective ways to start preparing for the SAT. The PSAT covers the same subjects under timed conditions, giving you a realistic practice experience. It can also qualify you for the National Merit Scholarship Program and other scholarships.
It’s crucial to know your PSAT and SAT scores and take steps to improve them. By understanding your scores, you can identify your strengths and areas for improvement. Use this information to tailor your study plan, seek additional resources, and set specific goals for progress.
To maximize your potential, utilize the following PSAT/SAT Preparation Tools.
- Ask your counselor about SAT Test Prep at your high school
- Practice for the PSAT and SAT on the Bluebook App
- College Board’s Free Online Practice Tools
- Free test prep through the Khan Academy
Resources for Students and Test Coordinators
For Students
- Understanding SAT Scores – SAT Suite | College Board
- Understanding PSAT/NMSQT Scores – SAT Suite | College Board
- Download the Bluebook Digital Testing App – College Board
- How to Use Khan Academy for SAT Prep – College Board
For Test Coordinators
- SAT Suite of Assessments Test Coordinator Manual
- SAT Suite of Assessments Proctor Manual
- SAT Suite of Assessments Accommodations Guide
- PSAT/SAT Resources - DCPS College Prep & Persists Team SharePoint
For questions about general SAT administration, contact Courtney Haddaway Delph at [email protected].