Education

How much does it cost to take the SAT

Usual SAT Exam Cost

The SAT or Scholastic Aptitude Test is a series of assessments that are designed to determine a student’s college readiness. There are two types of SAT tests. The SAT is a comprehensive exam that focuses on assessing a student’s ability in reading, writing, and math. The SAT Subject Tests assess a student’s ability in a certain subject. Colleges use these tests to place students in the best class for their ability. There are 20 different SAT Subject Tests.

In the United States

In the US, the fee for taking the SAT is $51 and test fees are not refundable. There are fee waivers available for students whose families meet the income guidelines. These waivers can be obtained by talking to the high school guidance counselor.

SAT Subject Tests

The fee for taking the SAT Subject Tests are $24.50 plus the fee for the test. If a student is taking a language test with listening the fee is $24. For all the other subject tests, the fee is $13.

International Students Fee

For students who are taking the SAT tests outside of the US, there is a Non-US Regional Fee that is charged in addition to the $51 testing fee. This fee ranges from $31 to $40 depending on where the test is being taken.

Additional Costs

In addition to the test fees, there are a few additional fees that may be charged. There is a $15 fee if students register for the test by phone. There is a $27.50 fee to change the test date. And there is a $45 waitlist fee if a student is on the waitlist and admitted into the testing center. There are also additional fees that can be charged for test scoring. These fees range from $11.25 to $55 depending on the service being requested.

Materials

Besides the fees related to taking the test, there are also fees associated with the materials needed to take the test. Students are required to have number 2 pencils, photo identification, and calculators to take the test. In addition students taking the SAT Subject Listening Tests must have a CD player to take the test. Charges for getting to and from the testing center must also be figured into the cost of testing.

SAT Prep Classes

To prepare for testing some students will want to invest in SAT preparation materials or classes. SAT prep books start at $16 and SAT prep classes start at $299.

The costs of taking the SAT can really add up, but by investing in test prep materials and the proper materials to take the test, students will set themselves up to do their very best on the test and enhance their chances of gaining acceptance into the colleges of choice.