The SAT is a crucial component of college admissions, and sending your SAT scores to top universities is an important step in the process. Understanding how to send your scores efficiently ensures that they reach your preferred colleges on time. Many students are unaware of different score-sending policies, such as Score Choice and superscoring, which can impact their applications significantly.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about sending SAT scores, including different methods, deadlines, costs, and common mistakes to avoid.
Before moving ahead with this blog, feel free to read more about SAT here:
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1. Understanding SAT Score Reporting
Before sending your SAT scores, it’s important to understand what is included in an SAT score report. The SAT consists of three key score components:
- Total Score: Ranges from 400 to 1600, combining Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) scores.
- Section Scores: Math (200–800) and EBRW (200–800).
How to Avoid Mistakes When Sending SAT Scores:
- Double-check your scores before sending them to ensure accuracy.
- Be aware of college-specific score submission policies.
- Review whether your chosen university requires all SAT scores or allows Score Choice.
2. Methods to Send SAT Scores
There are multiple ways to send SAT scores to colleges. Here’s how each method works:
A. Sending Scores During SAT Registration
- After you take the Digital SAT and receive your scores, you can send up to four score reports for free.
- This option is typically available within nine days of your score release.
- These scores are sent digitally to your chosen colleges.
- This method allows you to review your scores before sending them, ensuring you only share your best performance.
B. Sending Scores After Taking the SAT
- If you need to send scores beyond the initial four free reports, or if the free window has passed, you can send them later through your College Board account.
- This method costs $12 per score report.
- It takes approximately 1-2 weeks for colleges to receive standard reports electronically.
3. Understanding Score Choice: Sending Your Best Scores
Score Choice is an option that allows students to decide which SAT scores they want to send to colleges.
Pros of Using Score Choice
- Allows you to submit only your highest SAT scores.
- Gives you control over which scores colleges see.
Cons of Using Score Choice
- Some universities require students to submit all their SAT scores.
Colleges That Require All SAT Scores:
- Yale University
- Stanford University
- Carnegie Mellon University
Check each college’s website for their specific policies before using Score Choice.
4. SAT Superscoring: How Colleges Use Your Best Scores
Superscoring is when colleges consider the highest section scores across multiple SAT test dates.
How Superscoring Works:
- If you take the SAT multiple times, some colleges will take your best Math and EBRW scores and combine them to form your highest possible total score.
- This benefits students by maximizing their SAT score without requiring a perfect single attempt.
Top Colleges That Accept Superscoring:
- Harvard University
- MIT
- University of Chicago
5. SAT Score Sending Policies of Top Colleges
Different colleges have different SAT score submission policies:
- Test-Optional Colleges: Some universities do not require SAT scores but will consider them if submitted.
- Test-Flexible Colleges: These allow students to submit alternative standardized test scores.
- Colleges That Require All Scores: Some universities mandate that applicants send every SAT score.
Always verify policies directly on the college’s admissions page.
6. Cost and Fee Waivers for Sending SAT Scores
- Standard score reports cost $12 per college.
- Score reporting fee waivers are available for students from low-income backgrounds.
How to Apply for an SAT Score Fee Waiver:
- Eligible students should request a fee waiver from their high school counselor.
- College Board provides up to four free SAT score reports for qualifying students.
7. SAT Score Delivery Timelines
- Standard score reports:Digital scores are sent electronically, often faster than old paper-based timelines.
- Some colleges have strict deadlines, so send scores well in advance.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Sending SAT Scores
- Selecting the wrong college code when submitting scores.
- Missing deadlines due to late score submissions.
- Not using Score Choice or superscoring effectively.
9. How to Send SAT Scores to Universities Outside the U.S.
- Many global universities accept SAT scores.
- The process is the same as sending scores to U.S. colleges.
- Check each university’s admissions page for SAT score requirements.
10. Tracking and Confirming SAT Score Delivery
- Students can track their score submission status through their College Board account.
- If a college hasn’t received your scores, contact the admissions office or the College Board for assistance.
FAQs: How to Send SAT Scores to Top SAT Colleges
How do I send SAT scores for free?
You can select up to four colleges for free score reports during SAT registration.
How much does it cost to send SAT scores?
It costs $12 per score report.
Can I send only my highest SAT score?
Yes, using Score Choice, unless the college requires all scores.
Which colleges require all SAT scores?
Stanford, Yale, and Carnegie Mellon require all scores.
What is superscoring?
Superscoring takes the best Math and EBRW scores from multiple test dates.
Can I send SAT scores after applying to a college?
Yes, but scores must be received before the application deadline.
Do international universities accept SAT scores?
Yes, many global universities accept SAT scores.
How can I check if my scores have been received?
Log into your College Board account to track score delivery status.
Can I send my SAT scores after submitting my college application?
Yes, you can send your SAT scores after submitting your application, but ensure they reach the college before the deadline. Some colleges may review applications without scores, while others may wait for them.
How long does it take for colleges to receive my SAT scores?
Standard SAT score reports take about 1-2 weeks to reach colleges electronically.
Do all colleges accept superscoring for the SAT?
No, not all colleges accept superscoring. Some require all test scores, while others consider only your highest single-test attempt. Always check the college’s official SAT policy.
Can I cancel my SAT scores after taking the test?
Yes, you can cancel your SAT scores if you submit a written request by 11:59 PM (ET) on the following Thursday after your test date. However, canceled scores cannot be reinstated.
Is it possible to send SAT scores to colleges for free?
Yes, the College Board allows you to send four free SAT score reports if you select your colleges within nine days after your test date. Additional reports come with a fee.
Conclusion
Sending SAT scores to top colleges is a crucial step in securing admission to your dream institution. It’s not just about selecting the right colleges—understanding the nuances of Score Choice, superscoring, official score reports, and deadlines plays a significant role in optimizing your application. By carefully choosing which scores to send and when to send them, students can highlight their best performances and strengthen their college applications.
Moreover, being mindful of each college’s specific SAT score policies can make a difference. Some universities require all SAT scores, while others allow you to send only your best ones. Superscoring can work to your advantage, combining your highest section scores from multiple test attempts to present the best possible overall score. Additionally, sending scores early ensures you meet crucial deadlines for early decision, regular decision, and scholarship considerations.
At PrepGenius , we provide expert SAT coaching and admissions support, helping students navigate every aspect of the SAT process—from preparation to score submission. With structured study plans, mock tests, and personalized guidance, we ensure that students achieve their highest potential. Whether you need help with test strategies or the college application process, PrepGenius is here to help you succeed.
Take control of your SAT journey today—plan strategically, send your best scores, and secure admission to your dream college!