Quick Highlights:
SAT scholarship deadlines – key dates for 2025 applicants
National Merit Scholarship Program – PSAT and SAT requirements
College-specific SAT scholarships – priority application dates
State and local scholarships – often tied to SAT scores
How to stay organized – tracking deadlines and requirements
Introduction
Missing a scholarship deadline can mean missing out on thousands of dollars in free money for college. Families who plan ahead have the best chance to maximize opportunities. This post explains the most important SAT scholarship deadlines, including national programs, college-based awards, and practical ways to track everything.
Why SAT Scholarship Deadlines Matter
Scholarship committees often use SAT scores to determine eligibility. Even a 20–30 point difference can impact awards. Staying on top of dates ensures students don’t lose out on financial aid that could make a big difference.
National Merit Scholarship Deadlines
Many SAT scholarship deadlines fall between October 15 and November 30 of a student’s senior year. This is especially true for:
- Merit-Based University Scholarships
– Some colleges automatically award scholarships for students who meet GPA and SAT thresholds — but only if scores are submitted before their early or priority deadlines. - Competitive National Scholarships
– Programs like Coca-Cola Scholars, Jack Kent Cooke, and other major awards often require complete applications (including test scores) by the fall. - Institutional Scholarships
– Individual departments or campuses may offer smaller scholarships with internal SAT scholarship deadlines in the fall semester.
⚠️ Bottom line: Plan to take the SAT no later than October or November of senior year to qualify for most scholarship opportunities.
Are you unsure about National Merit? Read more about it here.
Why Early Testing Helps with SAT Scholarship Deadlines
To meet SAT scholarship deadlines, students should take the SAT early enough to allow for retesting and score improvement. Here’s a recommended timeline:
Grade | Action |
Spring of Junior Year | Take the first SAT attempt |
Summer / August | Retake if needed with prep |
October of Senior Year | Final chance before most scholarship deadlines |
Taking the SAT twice before October gives students time to raise scores and apply early.
SAT Scholarship Deadlines
SAT Date | Score Release (Est.) | Scholarship Usefulness |
August 15 | Late August | Best for early applicants |
October 4 | Mid-October | Final window for many deadlines |
November 1 | Mid-November | May be too late for some schools |
Always verify dates on College Board’s SAT website and with the colleges you’re applying to.
College-Specific SAT Scholarships
Many universities automatically consider students for scholarships based on their SAT scores if applications are submitted by the priority deadline.
Some deadlines are as early as November 1 (Early Action).
Others run through December or January (Regular Decision).
Higher scores often unlock higher scholarship tiers.
State and Local Scholarship Deadlines
Don’t overlook local opportunities:
State-based merit programs (like Bright Futures in Florida or HOPE in Georgia).
Regional nonprofits, civic organizations, and businesses that require SAT scores.
Deadlines often range from December through March.
How Families Can Stay Organized
Create a master calendar with all scholarship deadlines.
Set reminders one month before each due date.
Keep digital copies of transcripts, test scores, and recommendation letters ready.
Work with a tutor if scores are just shy of a scholarship cutoff. Even a small bump can make a difference.
FAQ: SAT Scholarship Deadlines
Q: Is it really necessary to take the SAT before November?
A: Yes — for SAT scholarship deadlines, most colleges require scores before November 1. Waiting too long can disqualify your student from automatic or competitive scholarships.
Q: What if we missed early deadlines?
A: Many need-based scholarships and institutional aid are still available. But for top merit awards, planning ahead is crucial.
Q: Can SAT prep really help earn scholarships?
A: Absolutely. Higher SAT scores can unlock thousands of dollars in automatic merit aid and competitive scholarships.
Q: Does retesting help with scholarships?
A: Definitely. A 50–100 point score increase can bump your student into a higher scholarship tier at many schools.
Need Help Prepping in Time?
If your student is feeling behind, overwhelmed, or unsure how to improve before their next SAT attempt — they’re not alone.
At Engaged Minds Academy, we offer virtual SAT prep that’s flexible, affordable, and focused on results.
✔️ Personalized tutoring available
✔️ Access to our exclusive SAT platform
✔️ Diagnostic tests to track progress
✔️ Fast prep strategies for upcoming deadlines
We even offer a free tier of our SAT platform to help families get started immediately.
📍 Click here to learn more and register — and help your student prep in time for October or November SAT dates.
Recap
SAT scholarship deadlines can arrive sooner than families expect. By building a calendar, tracking requirements, and preparing test scores in advance, students can maximize scholarship opportunities. Engaged Minds Academy helps students boost SAT performance through flexible online tutoring and access to our adaptive digital SAT prep platform—so no opportunity is left on the table.
TL;DR: SAT Scholarship Deadlines
National Merit – based on junior year PSAT, SAT confirmation due in fall of senior year
College scholarships – priority deadlines often Nov–Jan
State and local scholarships – deadlines vary, often Dec–Mar
Stay organized – use calendars and reminders
Higher scores = more aid – SAT prep can increase eligibility
Scholarship Spotlight
Regions Riding Forward® Scholarship Contest
The Regions Riding Forward® Scholarship Contest is an incredible opportunity for students who want to share a meaningful story—and potentially earn $8,000 toward college.
What It Is
This scholarship invites students to submit either:
A written essay (500 words or less), or
A video essay (3 minutes or less)
The topic: someone you personally know from your community who has inspired you and helped you build the confidence to pursue your goals.
Quarterly Deadlines (2025)
This contest runs four times per year, giving students multiple chances to apply:
| Quarter | Start Date | End Date | Winner Announced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q1 | Jan 1 | Mar 31 | May 31 |
| Q2 | Apr 1 | Jun 30 | Aug 31 |
| Q3 | Jul 1 | Sep 30 | Nov 30 |
| Q4 | Oct 1 | Dec 31 | Feb 28 |
Each quarter, Regions awards four $8,000 scholarships—two for essays and two for videos.
✅ Eligibility
Ages 16+
Live in one of the eligible states (includes TX, FL, GA, LA, AL, and more)
Must be a current high school or college student with at least one year of undergraduate study remaining
Minimum 2.0 GPA
What Makes This Scholarship Unique
Accepts both written and video submissions
No purchase or banking relationship required
You can enter once per quarter (but only win once)
📌 Why Students Should Apply
This contest is ideal for students who want to practice storytelling, build college application confidence, and earn serious scholarship money—all while honoring someone important in their lives.
💬 Your story matters—and this scholarship is proof that your voice can help fund your future.
Apply for the Regions Riding Forward® Scholarship Contest HERE.
About The Author
Dominique Benson is an educator, curriculum designer, and the founder of Engaged Minds Academy—an online tutoring company serving students nationwide. She’s spent over a decade helping students master subjects like algebra, biology, writing, and SAT prep, with a focus on real-world skills and personalized support. Dominique writes all blog content for EMA to help families make confident, informed decisions about their child’s academic success.
📌 Learn more about Dominique here.
📧 Questions? Reach out at hello@engagedmindsacademy.com
📱 Follow EMA on Instagram: @engagedmindsacademy
