College Testing & Recruiting Hub
Everything college-bound athletes need to know about ACT & SAT testing, NCAA eligibility, and how it all fits your recruiting plan. The upcoming 2026–2027 dates below update automatically.
ACT Testing Schedule
2026–2027 7 upcoming datesNSR Tip
Plan to take your first ACT or SAT by the end of your junior year. Many coaches want to see scores before making offers, and scores affect both NCAA eligibility and academic scholarships.
SAT Testing Schedule
2026–2027 8 upcoming datesCollege Board has confirmed all 2026–2027 SAT dates. A few late-spring 2027 deadlines are still pending and will fill in automatically as College Board releases them.
A few points can mean thousands in aid
Raising your score, say from an ACT 22 to a 26, can move you into a different academic-scholarship bracket at many schools. Academic money often matters as much as athletic money, and it can open opportunities that have nothing to do with your sport.
NSR athletes get a free ACT/SAT prep course through uScore Test Prep (details below). See everything an NSR athlete gets →
For Parents
Many families focus only on athletic scholarships, but academic aid often plays a bigger role in reducing college cost. A stronger test score can unlock money that has nothing to do with athletics, and it keeps more doors open across every division level.
Your College Readiness Checklist
Testing is one step. Here's the whole path, in order:
- Understand NCAA eligibility & get your NCAA ID
- Register for the ACT/SAT (dates above) and send scores with code 9999
- Learn when coaches can contact you (NCAA rules)
- Research schools that fit on and off the field with College Research
- See where athletes are committing on the NSR Commitments board
- Get evaluated by an NSR Recruiting Expert to find where you fit
National Scouting Report helps athletes who can compete at the college level find their fit. Browse freely, then when you're ready to find out where you stand, get evaluated by an NSR College Scout.
Honest evaluations from former college players and coaches.
Get EvaluatedFAQ: SAT, ACT & Recruiting
Absolutely. College coaches need to know you're academically eligible to compete, and SAT or ACT scores are part of that equation. Strong scores help meet NCAA requirements and can make you more attractive to admissions departments and academic scholarships.
Tip: A solid academic profile tells coaches you're serious and less of a risk in the eligibility process.
Bonus: Better scores mean more options across all division levels.
You don't need both, but it's smart to find out which suits you best. Take a practice test of each to see which plays to your strengths.
Tip: Once you know your better test, focus your prep there and aim to take it early in your junior year.
Bonus: NSR athletes get free access to a full ACT or SAT prep course through uScore Test Prep.
Aim to take the ACT or SAT no later than the spring of your junior year, so scores are available before the key summer recruiting period when coaches finalize watch lists.
Tip: Testing early leaves time for a retake and keeps you on track for NCAA eligibility.
Pro Tip: Register early for a date that won't conflict with tournaments or your season.
Use the code 9999 when registering for the SAT or ACT to send your scores directly to the NCAA Eligibility Center. This is required for Division I and II.
Note: Scores must come directly from the testing agency; your transcript won't count.
If you're eligible for accommodations like extended time, apply through the SAT or ACT directly. The NCAA and colleges understand athletes learn differently, and accommodations don't hurt your chances with coaches.
Tip: Start the request process early so you're ready when test dates arrive.
Even at test-optional schools, athletes are often encouraged or required to submit scores during recruiting. Coaches may use them for admissions support or academic aid.
Tip: A solid score can only help your profile stand out, especially if your GPA is borderline.
The NCAA uses a sliding scale that balances your core GPA with your SAT or ACT score. The higher your GPA, the lower your test score can be, and vice versa.
Tip: Aim to exceed the minimums to improve your recruiting and academic-scholarship chances.
Free ACT/SAT Test Prep for NSR Athletes
NSR athletes receive a free one-time Bronze Level ACT or SAT prep course through uScore Test Prep, NSR's own test-prep platform, built to help athletes maximize academic readiness and NCAA eligibility.
- Includes a full course and 2 practice tests
- Access lasts 1 year or until 2 tests are completed
- Additional uScore programs available at the athlete's discretion
Not an NSR athlete yet? Get evaluated to unlock free prep, or purchase uScore directly at uscoretestprep.com.
Know your test plan? Find your college fit next.
Research schools, see where athletes commit, and get an honest evaluation from a former college player or coach.