November 2026 SAT Scores: Nov 20 Release, Dec 5 Deadline

If you take the Digital SAT on November 7, 2026, your scores are scheduled for release on November 20, 2026. That is also the regular registration deadline for the December 5, 2026 test, so decide your plan before the scores arrive.

When do November 2026 SAT scores come out?#

College Board lists November 20, 2026 for students who tested on November 7, and December 18, 2026 for students who tested on December 5. That is 13 days after each test. Because no release time is listed, don't plan around a specific hour.

These come from College Board's dates and deadlines and score release pages. Dates can change, so check them before you act.

The December 5 registration deadline#

Regular registration closes on the same day your scores arrive. If you wait to see your score, you can still register at the regular fee that evening, but only until 11:59 p.m. ET. After that, late registration runs through November 24, 2026 and carries additional fees. College Board lists the current amounts on its test fees page, so check there rather than relying on a number from us.

It is easier to set your rule now, while you are calm. If you are still choosing between the two dates, our guide to November 7 or December 5 walks through that decision.

Set a retest rule before score day#

Write down the score you need and a score that would make you stop. Use your own numbers, based on the colleges on your list. Here is an illustration with made-up numbers: if your target is 1350, you might decide "1350 or above, I'm done; 1300 to 1349, I'll retest in December; below 1300, I'll look at my section scores and a Score Debrief before choosing."

If one section is clearly behind, that is where a retest plan should start. Check each college's score policy on its admissions page. Some colleges superscore and some ask for every score, and the rules can change.

Use the 13 days well#

1. Write down what felt hard

   While you remember the test, note which question types and which module slowed you down. This is useful whatever your score turns out to be.

2. Check your college deadlines

   If you are a senior applying early, look at each college's deadline and its policy on scores. Confirm with the college whether a December score will arrive in time for the round you are applying to.

3. Keep practicing steadily

   If December is possible, a short, steady routine usually serves you better than one long cram session. A full practice test is a good way to check your pacing.

If you're a parent#

Your student may be anxious in these two weeks. Ask what they felt went well before asking about the number, and agree together on the retest rule before November 20. A plan made in advance keeps the conversation about next steps instead of the score itself. If December 5 is on the table, also check the travel, school and family schedule for that Saturday so registration isn't the only thing you decide in a hurry.

When your score arrives#

Look at the section scores, not just the total. If you take a Pathiva practice test, the Score Debrief shows where your points went and suggests up to three fixes, which can help you choose what to practice if you do retest.