Unexpected closures of SAT test centers can occur due to severe weather, emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances. This guide explains the steps you should take if your test center closes unexpectedly, how the College Board will keep you informed, and what rescheduling options are available.
🛑 Understanding Test Center Closures
Test centers may be forced to close on short notice due to factors such as:
- Severe Weather: Inclement weather conditions can make travel unsafe.
- Emergencies: Local emergencies or unexpected events may lead to last-minute closures.
- Other Unforeseen Circumstances: Any situation deemed disruptive to safe testing operations.
The College Board monitors these situations and works to ensure that affected students are promptly informed and provided with alternatives.
📢 How You'll Be Notified
If your test center closes, the College Board uses multiple channels to notify you:
- Email: Notifications are sent to the email address associated with your College Board account.
- Text Message: If you have opted in for SMS notifications, you will receive a text message alert.
- Test Center Closings Page: The official page is regularly updated with the latest information regarding any closures.
Note: It is critical that you keep your contact information up to date in your College Board account to ensure you receive these notifications in a timely manner.
📅 Rescheduling Options
If your test center closes unexpectedly, you have several options:
Automatic Rescheduling
- The College Board may automatically reschedule you to the next available test date or assign you to an alternative location.
- No Additional Fees: Rescheduling due to closures does not usually incur extra fees.
Manual Rescheduling
- Log into Your College Board Account: You can review your new test date and location details.
- Choose an Alternative: If the automatic assignment is not convenient, you have the option to select a different test date or testing center manually.
Refunds
- Full Refund: If rescheduling is not feasible for you, you may request a full refund of your registration fee.
- Fee Waiver: Note that in cases of test center closure, any rescheduling or refund will not require additional fees.
🧭 Staying Informed
Being proactive can help you manage any disruption more effectively:
- Check the Test Center Closings Page: Review the page especially the night before and the morning of your test.
- Monitor Your Email and Text Messages: Regularly check these communications for any updates or alerts from the College Board.
- Contact Your Test Center: If possible, visit the test center’s website or call them directly to confirm their status.
- Follow Local News: Stay informed about regional weather or emergency updates that might affect test center operations.
📞 Contacting the College Board
If you need assistance or have questions about your test center closure, you can contact the College Board directly:
- Phone (U.S.): 866-756-7346
- Phone (International): +1-212-713-7789
- Contact Form: Use the SAT Contact Form to submit your inquiry online.
Customer service is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Time.
By staying proactive and informed, you can effectively manage any disruptions caused by unexpected test center closures. Keep a close eye on your notifications and act promptly to reschedule or request a refund if necessary, ensuring that you remain on track for your SAT testing plans.