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Yes, sending SAT scores to college even before you submit your application is ok and possible, but you should know that it will not necessarily give you the edge where your admission is concerned. Here’s what you need to know about submitting your scores, what happens when you send them in early, and other facts you need to know about giving your ACT and SAT results to colleges.
How Can You Submit Your ACT/SAT Scores to a College?
Both the ACT and College Board (the company that hosts the SAT) send your results to colleges for you. When you sign up for the exams, you can select up to four colleges or universities that you’d like to submit your scores after you complete the test for free.
However, any college you add to your list after signing up will cost money. To send your SAT results to additional schools, it is $12 per school per test. The ACT is $18. Some students may qualify for a fee waiver.
Can I Submit My ACT/SAT Scores to a College I Haven’t Applied to Yet?
Yes, you can submit your ACT or SAT scores before you have submitted your application. Regular college applications are generally due on January 1st, so if you’re already taking your exam at the end of your junior year, your scores will be ready well in advance anyway!
What Happens When You Submit Your ACT/SAT Scores Early?
Some students, however, worry that if the test scores aren’t sent in with the application, the results may just be trashed. Rest assured, though, they won’t be! Colleges are well aware that they will be receiving test scores before your application.
Every college has its own unique system for filing away the early test scores that they receive until applications start to come in. When you submit your application, they will check if they have the scores already on record. If they do, the scores are automatically attached to your application without any further work from you!
As a precautionary measure, it is a good idea to follow up with the college to make sure that they have received your test scores. You don’t want to find out too late that there was a mix-up and your school never received your results. A simple call to the application office or admissions department will do the trick! For schools that have online application processes, you may even be able to see your SAT or ACT results status on their website or program.
Are There Any Benefits To Sending Your ACT/SAT Score Early?
One benefit of sending in your ACT or SAT scores early is the fact that you can save money. Since both the SAT and ACT allow you to select up to four colleges to submit your results to when you register for the exams, you can save between $12 and $18 per test per school. However, you do have to make sure you select these schools at registration to get the freebies.
Another benefit worth noting is that you can cross it off your to-do list! By selecting your colleges on the ACT/SAT registration page, you can ensure you’re not worrying about whether or not you need to submit your results to some schools at a later date.
However, it’s worth noting that there are no benefits in regard to your admission chances. Submitting your results as early as possible will not improve your chances of receiving that acceptance letter.
When Is The Latest You Should Submit Your ACT/SAT Score?
The latest you should submit your ACT/SAT score depends entirely on the college you’re applying to and the application process you’re applying under.
Colleges have different methods and due dates for ACT and SAT scores. Some will require them before the application deadline, while others will accept them at a later date.
Whether or not you’re applying under Early Decision, Early Action or Regular Decision will also affect when you need to submit your scores, especially if the school in question does not allow you to send scores after their application deadlines. Applications for Early Decision and Early Action are usually due on November 1st or 15th, which means the latest you should take the SAT or ACT should be in October. For Regular Decision applicants, plan to take your exam by December at the latest.
You should always check with your potential colleges regarding their policies for submitting ACT and SAT scores as well as their deadlines. As mentioned previously, every school is different, and you don’t want to discover at the last minute that your dream college won’t accept your test result because you submitted it too late! It’s always a good idea to start taking your ACT or SAT as soon as possible to avoid this situation.
Colleges and universities you selected at your ACT/SAT registration will almost certainly receive your results before you complete your application. And don’t worry – they won’t be thrown in the trash! Schools have efficient systems in place to track your applications and your scores.
While submitting your ACT/SAT scores early will not affect your admission chances, the score absolutely can. Colleges generally look for certain scores from their students. If you’re curious about what your dream college is looking for, check out their page using College Raptor’s free College Match tool.
