Is It Possible To Take The SAT After High School?

Most people think of the SAT as a test for high school students, but there are plenty of reasons someone might need or want to take the SAT after graduating. The short answer: Yes, you can definitely take the SAT after high school! I’m proof—I took the SAT again as an adult and plan on retaking it this May.

This guide will explain why adults might take the SAT, how to register, what’s different about testing as an adult, and tips to make the process smoother.

Why Take the SAT After High School?

Taking the SAT is a big commitment, so it’s only worth the effort if you really need to. Here are three main reasons why you might take the SAT after high school:

1. Applying to College

If you took a gap after high school and are now applying to college, you may need an SAT or ACT score for your application. If you already took the SAT in high school, those scores are stored by the College Board, but be aware: Some colleges only accept SAT scores from the last 3-5 years. Always check each college’s specific requirements.

Some schools are now test-optional or test-blind, meaning you don’t need to submit SAT scores at all. If you’re applying to these, the SAT may not be necessary. Double-check admissions policies on each college’s website or contact their admissions office if you’re unsure.

2. Applying to Transfer

Students transferring from one college to another may also need to submit SAT or ACT scores, especially if they’ve only spent a short time (less than 1-2 years) at college. Previous high school SAT scores are often accepted, but you might want to retake the test to strengthen your application. Again, some colleges are test-optional for transfers. Always verify with the admissions office.

3. Job or Scholarship Applications

Some employers (especially in education) and scholarships require SAT scores, or have minimum score requirements. If you didn’t take the test—or need a higher score—you’ll need to sit for the SAT as an adult. Make sure to read the requirements carefully and confirm if they accept a recent SAT score.

How to Register for the SAT After High School

Registration is almost the same as for high school students; you can sign up on the College Board website. You’ll need to enter personal details, upload a photo, and pay the fee. Some parts of the registration are tailored to current students (like asking about your high school or parents), but as a graduate, you can skip or modify these fields.

For a step-by-step walkthrough, refer to the SAT registration guide on the College Board website.

Where Do You Take the SAT?

SAT test centers are usually located at high schools, but sometimes at colleges or other facilities. No matter your age, you will take the SAT at one of these centers—likely alongside high school students.

When you register, you can choose your test center. Registering early gives you the best chance of picking one close to home before spots fill up.

Differences When Taking the SAT as an Adult

If you’re 21 or older, some rules change:

· You must bring government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport); student IDs are not accepted.

· Adults cannot use the SAT waitlist if it is offered again, so you must register before the final deadline.

· The SAT itself may be different from what you remember. Major changes were introduced in 2016 and again in 2024, when the test became fully digital and adaptive. Now, the SAT is shorter (2 hours 14 minutes), digital, and features new types of reading and math questions. The scoring remains 400-1600, but reading and writing are now combined, and the essay is mostly optional.

For specifics about the new SAT format, check out the latest resources on the College Board website.

What’s It Like to Take the SAT as an Adult?

Sharing from personal experience, sitting the SAT as an adult might feel awkward at first when surrounded by younger students. But adults often feel less pressure, which can actually help performance. Remember, the SAT is just one part of your application or qualifications—it does not define your entire future.

In Summary

· Yes, you can take the SAT after high school.

· Reasons might include applying to college, transferring, or qualifying for a job/scholarship.

· Registration is open to all ages—just follow the College Board instructions.

· Prepare for a digital, shorter test experience.

· Read college/job/scholarship requirements carefully so you know if you need to take or retake the SAT.

Good luck, and approach the test with confidence—you’ve got this!