Strategy on when to take first SAT

Typically at the end of the school year in which the student completes the relevant course.

For example:

  • Math level 1: when student completes algebra 2 and geometry, or integrated math 3 (students who will complete precalculus by junior year or earlier should take math level 2 instead).
  • Math level 2: when student completes precalculus.
  • Physics: when student completes high school physics, or *both* AP physics 1 *and* 2.
  • Foreign language: when student is at the highest level of proficiency possible within test date constraints (which may be in fall of senior year if s/he will take the language during senior year; otherwise end of the school year when the student completes the highest level s/he will take).