SAT--written portion required but not available. Also, timing re: congressional nominations

[lummer]

Confused Parent asks:

1. The MA seems to require a test of writing ability, however, the SAT no longer offers it, even though I read it can be optional. Does the MA actually require a proctored writing exam? If so, how can this be accomplished?

2. Are SAT scores actually required to get a congressional nomination? Here in Northern California, SAT exams had to be scheduled months out due to demand--one of the exams was canceled last minute, pushing everyone out. Ugh. The window for congressional nomination applications has passed, and my kid doesn't take the SAT until the first week of November. Is it a non-starter to not have SAT scores submitted for the nominations?

 

[99Gold]

USMA requires the essay section if you submit the ACT. They were forced to omit the SAT essay requirement when the College Board removed the option. My ds applying this year only took the SAT so he did not submit an essay score.

SAT scores being required for a congressional nomination would be up to the congressional office. Each office runs nominations differently. Hopefully some CA folks can answer that. They are a part of the nomination process here in TX and the rep for our district prioritizes SAT/ACT scores. He even warned candidates during the 2026 nom season that he would take SA score averages into account for each SA nomination slate and gave them a chance to switch their preference order.

SAT/ACT scores are required for all of the SAs with the exception of USCGA (which is also does not require a nomination). Signing up for SAT/ACT exams months in advance is a normal practice to me. Seats fill up in desirable locations and the College Board charges extra for last minute registrations so we plan early. A cancellation would be annoying but a good reason to get a few in during junior year so that the student isn’t in a bind later on.

 

[lummer]

USMA requires the essay section if you submit the ACT. They were forced to omit the SAT essay requirement when the College Board removed the option. My ds applying this year only took the SAT so he did not submit an essay score.

SAT scores being required for a congressional nomination would be up to the congressional office. Each office runs nominations differently. Hopefully some CA folks can answer that. They are a part of the nomination process here in TX and the rep for our district prioritizes SAT/ACT scores. He even warned candidates during the 2026 nom season that he would take SA score averages into account for each SA nomination slate and gave them a chance to switch their preference order.

SAT/ACT scores are required for all of the SAs with the exception of USCGA (which is also does not require a nomination). Signing up for SAT/ACT exams months in advance is a normal practice to me. Seats fill up in desirable locations and the College Board charges extra for last minute registrations so we plan early. A cancellation would be annoying but a good reason to get a few in during junior year so that the student isn’t in a bind later on.

Thanks for the insights. I had no idea the SAT dates would get filled up so fast. I'm baffled trying to understand how it benefits anyone for the College Board to limit the number of individuals who can take the exam!

 

[bopper]

I'm baffled trying to understand how it benefits anyone for the College Board to limit the number of individuals who can take the exam!

I think it isn't them limiting it, but them having to find proctors for all the tests. The locations are generally high schools and they offer it 5 times in a school year.

 

[nomad556]

Thanks for the insights. I had no idea the SAT dates would get filled up so fast. I'm baffled trying to understand how it benefits anyone for the College Board to limit the number of individuals who can take the exam!

They have requirements for the number of proctors. Can't find enough proctors = fewer exams.