Uploading SAT scores to Common App—a step by step?

Hey guys! A little stressed here because I can't seem to figure out how to upload my SAT scores to the Common App. Could someone explain the steps, or is it automatically done by College Board?

Hi there! First off, take a deep breath and don't worry, you're not alone in navigating the Common App—it can be a bit confusing at times. To provide clarity, you cannot directly upload your SAT scores to the Common App. Instead, what you do is self-report your scores in the 'Testing' section and then have the official score reports sent directly to the colleges you are applying to through the College Board website.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you along:

1. Log in to your Common App account and go to the 'Testing' section.

2. You'll find the option to 'Add Test' where you can select 'SAT’.

3. Enter your test date and the scores you received for each section—Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Math, and your Essay score if you took it.

4. If you've taken the test multiple times, you can add additional test dates and scores—colleges often superscore (i.e., consider your strongest section scores on the SAT from across multiple test administrations).

5. Review the testing policies of the colleges you're applying to. Some institutions are test-optional, test-flexible, or require all scores.

6. After self-reporting, visit the College Board website to send your official SAT scores to the colleges, if the colleges you're applying to require it. Some accept self-reporting only. There’s usually a fee for each score report unless you're eligible for a fee waiver.

7. Keep an eye on the deadlines for each college to ensure your official scores are received on time.

Remember, self-reporting your scores on Common App is just part of the process; some colleges need the official scores from the College Board to verify your self-reported scores. Also, if you qualify for a fee waiver, it can cover the cost of sending a limited number of score reports for free, so be sure to check if you're eligible on the College Board’s website.

Take it one step at a time, and you'll get through this smoothly. Wishing you all the best with your applications!