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Surge in SAT Participation for Class of 2025

In a remarkable turn of events, the participation of students in the SAT has surged past the 2 million mark for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted educational assessments. According to the recently released 2025 SAT Suite of Assessments Annual Report, a total of 2.01 million students from the high school class of 2025 took the SAT at least once. This figure reflects a slight increase from the 2024 class, where 1.97 million students participated.

This year's cohort stands out as the first to largely engage with the SAT in a digital format, with a staggering 97% of students opting for the digital version of the test. The shift to digital testing represents a significant transformation in how assessments are approached, aligning with modern educational practices that prioritize accessibility and technological integration.

Interestingly, data from the 2025 cohort also reveals that 68% of the SAT test-takers completed the exam during school hours, as opposed to weekend testing, highlighting a growing trend towards integrating standardized tests into school curricula. The 2024-25 school year marked a milestone for the SAT program, with the introduction of an entirely digital testing paradigm in the United States. This includes offerings such as the PSAT/NMSQT administered in the fall of 2024, the PSAT 10 in the spring of 2025, and the SAT and PSAT 8/9 throughout the academic year.

The positive trend in SAT participation points to an increasing recognition among students and educators of the test’s utility in identifying academic strengths and connecting learners with university opportunities, scholarships, and career pathways.

A Statement from Leadership

“An increase in SAT participation, coupled with a full transition to digital assessments, underscores the continued value placed on the SAT by students and educators alike,” commented Priscilla Rodríguez, Senior Vice President of College Readiness Assessments. “Digital testing enhances the overall student experience while preserving the rigor that has made the SAT a trusted measure of the knowledge and skills needed for success in college and beyond.”

As we observe these changes, it’s noteworthy that the average SAT scores for the class of 2025 stand at 521 in reading and writing (RW) and 508 in mathematics. This data provides critical insights into the educational developments and learning outcomes produced during a period marked by unprecedented challenges.

PSAT/NMSQT Testing Commences

October marks a pivotal month for high school students nationwide, as millions of 10th and 11th graders prepare to sit for the PSAT/NMSQT, also known as the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. This examination is a crucial gateway on the path to higher education, presenting students with several benefits and opportunities.

The PSAT/NMSQT serves as the sole qualifying test for the National Merit® Scholarship Program, recognizing outstanding academic performance and offering financial incentives. Moreover, it connects students with a wealth of free SAT practice resources and provides insight into their potential for success in Advanced Placement® courses, along with access to a substantial pool of scholarships exceeding $300 million.

In addition to academic recognition, the PSAT/NMSQT facilitates early exposure to college readiness and evaluation standards similar to those used in the SAT. Students have the chance to practice through the Bluebook app, which offers tailored assessments and skills-based practice via Official Digital SAT Practice on Khan Academy.

This year, an estimated 3.4 million students participated in the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10. For additional information about the test and preparation resources, students are encouraged to visit psat.org.

About College Board

The College Board impacts the lives of over 7 million students yearly, guiding them from high school to college and into their careers. Founded more than 120 years ago, this nonprofit membership organization has pioneered initiatives like SAT® and AP® to expand opportunities for learners. Their BigFuture® program assists students in planning and funding their college education while exploring various career paths. For more details, visit cb.org.