How to register for the SAT or ACT: steps, fees and deadlines
First checked October 11, 2026; rechecked October 23, 2026 · Sources: ACT’s registration page and 2026-27 overview; College Board’s SAT dates and deadlines and fee pages.
To register for the SAT or ACT, go online: the SAT through your College Board account, the ACT through MyACT. Choose a date and test center, add any ACT options, upload a photo (ACT) and pay. Registering by the regular deadline avoids late fees: $38 for the SAT and $42 for the ACT.
Step by step
Compare the two on the <a href="https://mocktestprep.com/sat-act/explained/">SAT vs ACT</a> page; most colleges accept either.
College Board account for the SAT; MyACT for the ACT.
Use the <a href="https://mocktestprep.com/sat-act/exam-dates/">2026-27 dates</a>; register by the regular deadline.
ACT: decide on optional Science ($5) and Writing ($25) and on paper, online or bring-your-own-device testing. You can change these before the late deadline.
ACT requires a recent photo at registration; both tests require acceptable ID on test day.
SAT $68 (+$43 international); ACT $70 plus add-ons, or use a fee waiver.
Registration fees
| Fee | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | $68 | $70 (English, math, reading) |
| Optional sections | None | Science +$5; Writing +$25 |
| Late registration | +$38 | +$42 |
| International | +$43 | See ACT |
| Change date or center | $34 | Fee applies; see ACT |
From College Board and ACT, 2026-27.
Next registration deadlines
| Test date | Regular deadline | Late deadline |
|---|---|---|
| SAT, December 5, 2026 | November 20 | November 24 |
| ACT, December 12, 2026 | November 6 | November 29 |
| ACT, February 27, 2027 | January 22 | February 9 |
From College Board’s and ACT’s 2026-27 schedules.
SAT students who need to borrow a device from College Board must register and request it at least 30 days before test day.
Common questions about registering for the SAT or ACT
How much does it cost to register?
$68 for the SAT and $70 for the ACT’s core test in 2026-27; ACT Science adds $5 and Writing $25.
Can I register late?
Yes, by the late deadline, for an extra $38 (SAT) or $42 (ACT).
Can I get a fee waiver?
Yes. College Board and ACT offer fee waivers to eligible students; ask your school counselor.
Can I change my test date?
Yes. College Board charges $34 to change your date or center; ACT also charges a change fee.