Standardized Test Calendar 2026–2027: Every Major Exam Date

TL;DR

• SAT dates for 2026 are March 13, May 8, June 5, October 2, November 6, and December 4.
• ACT exams in 2026 occur on February 6, April 10, June 12, July 17, September 11, and October 23.
• GRE is offered year-round on various dates at official testing centers.
• GMAT testing is available year-round with flexible scheduling.
• LSAT exams for 2026 take place in January, April, June, August, and October.
• MCAT is offered on 25 dates throughout the year, with more details in specific guide sections.

Standardized Test Dates for 2026

In 2026, standardized test dates for major exams like the SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, LSAT, and MCAT are structured around both conventional academic timelines and personal scheduling flexibility. Each exam offers unique calendaring and rescheduling policies.

Why This Matters

Knowing when standardized tests are scheduled helps you plan your study schedule, avoid conflicts, and maximize preparation time. It is crucial for staying on track with college or graduate school application timelines. Understanding these dates allows you to choose preparation materials like SAT Official Prep from Khan Academy or Achievable ACT to align precisely with your test dates.

SAT Dates 2026–2027

The SAT is administered multiple times throughout the year, typically on Saturdays. For the 2026–2027 academic year, the scheduled dates are:

• March 13, 2026
• May 8, 2026
• June 5, 2026
• October 2, 2026
• November 6, 2026
• December 4, 2026

These dates facilitate year-long test prep through live classes like the SAT/ACT Group Class offered by Varsity Tutors.

ACT Dates 2026

The ACT is scheduled several times a year, aiming to provide students flexible testing opportunities. Key dates for 2026 are:

• February 6, 2026
• April 10, 2026
• June 12, 2026
• July 17, 2026
• September 11, 2026
• October 23, 2026

Consider courses like ACT 31+ Course from The Princeton Review to potentially boost your score.

GRE Dates 2026–2027

The GRE offers flexibility, available on numerous dates throughout the year at approved centers. Its scheduling adaptability requires only advance booking. GRE Success Plan from Varsity Tutors provides continuous monthly prep sessions.

GMAT Dates 2026–2027

The GMAT is available for year-round scheduling at Pearson VUE centers. Such flexibility allows you to prep according to your personal pace, with resources like GMAT Private Tutoring from The Princeton Review.

LSAT Dates 2026

LSAT exams occur five times in 2026: January, April, June, August, and October. Align your study efforts with the 515+ LSAT target through LSAT Tutoring Package by Varsity Tutors.

MCAT Dates 2026

In 2026, MCAT exams are offered 25 times, ensuring ample opportunities for students to select a testing time that best suits their preparation needs using resources like MCAT Free Prep by Khan Academy.

How to Choose the Right Exam Date

When selecting an exam date, consider factors such as application deadlines, personal schedules, and preparation duration needs. Balancing preparation with courses like the GRE Premium from Magoosh can ensure readiness without last-minute rushes. For detailed insights into specific exams, explore our guides on SAT vs ACT and Graduate School Exams Compared.