How to Book SAT Exam Online: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you aiming for college admissions in the US or seeking scholarships? The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized exam that evaluates your readiness for higher education, accepted by thousands of universities worldwide. Booking your SAT exam online is quick, convenient, and allows you to select preferred dates and test centers. In this detailed tutorial, we’ll guide you through the entire process, from creating a College Board account to confirming your registration. This is ideal for high school students, international applicants, or anyone preparing for the digital SAT.

This guide is based on the official College Board procedures, updated for 2026. Note that processes may vary slightly for international students, such as those in Sierra Leone, where you’ll pay an additional regional fee and use a passport as ID. Always check the official site for the latest updates.

Why Book the SAT Online?

Online registration offers real-time availability, secure payments, and access to free resources like practice tests. It’s the easiest way to sign up, taking about 30-45 minutes. If you’re an international student, you can register from anywhere, but be aware of time zones and test center availability in your region.

Prerequisites for Booking Your SAT Exam

Before starting, prepare these items:

A valid photo ID (e.g., passport for international students; national ID may not suffice outside the US).

A recent digital photo that meets College Board’s requirements: Headshot only, no hats or glasses, plain background, JPEG/PNG format under 10MB.

Payment method (credit/debit card; PayPal or other options may be available).

Personal details: Full name (matching ID), date of birth, email, phone, address, high school info.

If above 18, no parental consent needed, but parents can assist.

Stable internet and device; the SAT is now fully digital, so ensure your device meets testing specs if taking at home (though most use test centers).

For fee waivers: Low-income US students or eligible internationals may qualify—check eligibility first.

Pro Tip: The SAT is recommended for ages 16+. Download free practice materials from the College Board SAT Suite.

Step 1: Choose Your SAT Test Date and Format

The SAT is offered multiple times a year (e.g., March, May, June, August, October, November, December in 2026). All tests are digital now, with sections on Reading/Writing and Math.

Visit the SAT dates and deadlines page to view upcoming dates.

For international students in regions like Sierra Leone, tests are available but slots fill quickly—book 1-2 months ahead.

Use the Test Center Search to find locations near you e.g., American International School inmost countries.

Step 2: Create a College Board Account

Go to account.collegeboard.org and click “Sign Up.”

Enter your full legal name (must match ID), date of birth, email, and create a password.

Verify your email with the confirmation link sent.

If you already have an account (e.g., from AP exams or PSAT), log in instead.

This account gives access to scores, college searches, and more. Parents or counselors can’t register for you—you must do it yourself.

Step 3: Start the Online Registration

Once logged in, navigate to satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration.

Click “Register Now” or “Sign Up for the SAT.”

Build your student profile: Enter high school details, graduation year, GPA (optional), and demographic info (for scholarships).

Answer questions about your college plans and opt-in for Student Search Service if desired.

You can pause and resume later—your progress saves.

Step 4: Select Test Date, Time, and Center

Choose your preferred test date from available options.

Search for a test center: Enter your location (e.g., Freetown, Sierra Leone, Monrovia, Liberia, Accra, Ghana, Abuja, Nigeria etc ) to see nearby venues.