How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges
How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges: Applying to top US universities, such as Harvard, Stanford, or Yale, requires mastering the process of sending SAT scores to colleges. Official reports from the College Board are essential and mandatory for most schools, typically sent during registration or after the exam. This critical step allows you to highlight your best performances, along with your essays, GPA, and extracurricular activities.
With the rise of digital SATs, timing does matter. Free reports save money, while rush options ensure deadlines are met. Keep checking the upcoming SAT dates to align your how to send SAT scores to colleges perfectly.
Step-by-Step: How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges
Follow this streamlined process via your College Board account for easy score submission:
Step 1: Access Your Account
Log in to College Board. Navigate to “Send SAT Scores”. Eligible students see fee waiver pop-ups for unlimited free sends.
Step 2: Select Institutions
Search for colleges by name or code – add multiple schools easily. This targets your dream schools from your list of top US universities.
Step 3: Pick Test Dates
Select specific sittings if you are retaking the SAT. Verify school policies: some demand all scores, and others allow best-only selection.
Step 4: Verify Details
Review recipients and scores to avoid errors before finalizing.
Step 5: Complete Payment and Send
Pay if needed; scores are dispatched via standard (5-10 business days) or rush delivery.
Methods for Sending SAT Scores to Colleges
Optimize how to send SAT scores to colleges with the following proven techniques:
Method 1: Free Reports at Registration
Register early to receive four complimentary reports, automatically sent post-exam (up to 9 days after). It is ideal for budget-conscious applicants, but it is not blind to final scores. Used for all scores-required schools like Yale.
Method 2: Post-Exam Additional Reports
View scores first, then order selectively. Perfect for superscoring colleges combining top sections across dates.
| Method | Details | Fee |
| Free at Registration | 4 reports, up to 9 days post-test | $0 |
| Additional Reports | Select the best dates after viewing | $14 per report |
| Rush Reporting | 1-4 business days delivery | $ 31+ base fee |
For archived scores (over 5 years old), add $35 online or call (866) 756-7346 ($15 extra).
SAT Score Sending Costs and Timelines
How much does it cost to send SAT scores? The base fee is $14 per report, in addition to the free ones, and international reports incur an extra $43. Rush jumps to $31 extra. Standard processing: 10-14 days total (2-6 weeks shipping time). Colleges need an additional week for matching.
| Fee Type | Cost (USD) |
| Additional Report | $14 |
| Rush Add-On | $31 |
| Archived Scores | $35 |
| Phone Processing | $15 extra |
When Should You Send Your SAT Scores?
Send SAT scores to colleges 2-3 weeks pre-deadlines:
- Confident scores: Send early for complete apps.
- Unsure? Wai, retake if the targets are not met (e.g., Ivy average 1500+)
- Superscorers? Forward incrementally
- All- Scores Schools? Early compliance is key.
SAT scores are delivered to offices electronically within 5-10 business days.
How long does it take to send SAT Scores to Colleges?
From registration request: scores available 2-6 weeks post-test, then 10 days to colleges. Post-view ordering: 5-10 business days standard, 1-4 rush. Factor holidays- plan for the December 6, 2025, test.
What Happens After Sending SAT Scores?
Shifting to holistic apps: essays, recommendations, transcripts. Track status by portals and prep interviews. Apply for scholarships- high scores unlock merit aid. Schools receive scores for verification, along with outreach for aid and scholarships.
Conclusion
Your SAT score is one of the integral parts of a college application; grades, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations also matter. With many colleges now test-optional and some offering superscoring, you can easily choose how to present your best results.
Sending scores is simple: list your preferred colleges during registration for automatic delivery, or send them later, keeping deadlines in mind. Proper timing ensures that your scores reach college smoothly!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I send my SAT scores to Colleges?
You can send SAT scores through your College Board account by selecting the colleges you want to receive them and paying the required fee (unless using free score reports).
How many SAT score reports can I send for free?
You get four free score reports if you send them within nine days of taking the test.
Can I send SAT scores after seeing my results
Yes. You can send scores anytime after they’re released, but free reports won’t apply.
How long do SAT scores take to reach colleges?
It typically takes 1–2 weeks for colleges to receive official scores after you send them.
Can I choose which SAT scores to send?
Yes. With Score Choice, you can choose which test dates to send, unless a college requires all scores.
Do colleges accept superscores?
Many colleges superscore, but policies differ. Always check each college’s score policy.
Can I expedite the delivery of my SAT score?
Yes. The College Board offers rush reporting, delivering scores in about 2–4 business days for an extra fee.
Can I send my SAT scores to colleges after I’ve applied?
Absolutely. You can send them at any time, but ensure they arrive before the application deadline.
