Sending SAT Scores Before Applying

Hi everyone! I recently took my SAT and I'm planning to apply to colleges soon. Can I send my SAT scores to colleges before I submit my applications? Is there any advantage to doing this or should I just wait until I've applied?

Yes, you can send your SAT scores to colleges before submitting your application. The College Board allows you to send score reports to up to four colleges for free within nine days of your test date. After that period, you'll have to pay a fee for each additional score report you wish to send.

Sending your scores early can be advantageous in certain situations. First, it can save you money if you send your scores within the free-reporting window. Moreover, sending your scores early can ensure that they reach colleges in time, particularly if you're applying for Early Action or Early Decision, which have earlier deadlines than regular application cycles.

However, before sending your scores, you might want to consider the test-optional policies of the colleges you're applying to, since many schools have become test-optional in recent years. In this case, submitting your scores might not be necessary if you don't feel they strongly represent your academic abilities.

Ultimately, whether you send your scores before applying depends on your situation and the colleges you're applying to. Make sure to research each college's specific requirements and deadlines to make the best decision for yourself.