According to the College Board, there are 1 test centers for SAT and SAT Subject Tests in United Kingdom – Wales. Please note that before you register either of the SAT exams, you should choose your test date and test location. Each testing location is affiliated with an educational institution, such as high school, community college, or university. The following test centers administer one or more of SAT tests in United Kingdom – Wales.
SAT Testing Centers in Wales, United Kingdom
ATLANTIC COLL
2025-2026 SAT Test Dates in Wales, United Kingdom
Students in Wales, United Kingdom, planning to take the SAT during the 2025-2026 academic year can expect several test dates following the international SAT schedule. These dates generally fall during:
- August 2025
- October 2025
- December 2025
- March 2026
- May 2026
- June 2026
Exact dates and test center availability should be verified through the College Board’s official website. Test centers in Wales are typically located in major cities like Cardiff, Swansea, and Newport. Students are advised to register early as test centers have limited seating, especially during peak exam months.
SAT Test Taking Fees in Wales, United Kingdom
The fees for taking the SAT in Wales, United Kingdom, are consistent with the College Board’s international fee structure. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the fees are as follows:
- SAT (without Essay): $60.50
- SAT (with Essay): $85.50
- SAT Subject Tests: $26 per subject
Additional costs may include:
- Late Registration Fee: $30
- Test Center or Date Change Fee: $30
- International Registration Fee (United Kingdom): $49
Students in Wales may be eligible for fee waivers based on financial need. It’s advisable to consult the College Board’s guidelines or local educational institutions for information on financial assistance options.
How to Register for the SAT in Wales, United Kingdom
Registering for the SAT in Wales is an online process that is handled through the College Board’s website. To register, follow these steps:
- Create a College Board Account: Visit the College Board website (www.collegeboard.org) and create an account. This account will be used for registering, viewing scores, and managing test-related tasks.
- Select a Test Date and Center: After logging in, choose a suitable test date and test center in Wales. Major cities such as Cardiff and Swansea usually offer SAT testing centers.
- Complete Payment: Pay the registration fees online using a credit or debit card. Be sure to account for the international registration fee applicable to students in the United Kingdom.
- Print Admission Ticket: Once registered, print your admission ticket, which is required on the test day along with a valid photo ID.
It is recommended to register early to secure a spot at your preferred test center and avoid late registration fees.
Wales, United Kingdom Country Overview
Country Facts about Wales, United Kingdom
- Population: Approximately 3.2 million (2024 estimate)
- Capital: Cardiff
- Largest Cities: Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Wrexham
- Languages: English (official), Welsh (official)
- Currency: British Pound Sterling (GBP)
- ISO Country Codes: GB (Alpha-2), GBR (Alpha-3), 826 (Numeric)
Geography of Wales
According to United Kingdom Dictionary, Wales is one of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom, located on the western side of the island of Great Britain. It shares a border with England to the east and is surrounded by the Irish Sea to the north and west, and the Bristol Channel to the south. Wales covers an area of approximately 20,779 square kilometers (8,023 square miles).
The country is known for its mountainous terrain, particularly in the north and central regions. The Snowdonia National Park, home to the highest peak in Wales, Mount Snowdon (1,085 meters or 3,560 feet), is one of the country’s most famous landmarks. In contrast, the south of Wales features more low-lying areas with rolling hills and fertile valleys, such as the Vale of Glamorgan.
Wales has over 2,700 kilometers (1,680 miles) of coastline, much of it rugged and dramatic, dotted with beaches, cliffs, and small coastal towns. Its climate is temperate maritime, with mild winters and cool summers, and it experiences higher rainfall compared to other parts of the UK, particularly in the mountainous regions.
Education in Wales
Wales has a well-established and distinct education system that operates independently from the rest of the United Kingdom, though it shares some similarities in structure. The Welsh government is responsible for education policy, and there is a strong emphasis on bilingual education, with many students learning both Welsh and English.
- Primary and Secondary Education: Education in Wales is compulsory from ages 5 to 16. Primary education lasts from ages 5 to 11, followed by secondary education from ages 11 to 16. After completing General Certificates of Secondary Education (GCSEs) at age 16, students can continue with A-levels or vocational qualifications.
- Welsh Baccalaureate: In addition to traditional qualifications, Wales offers the Welsh Baccalaureate, a qualification that aims to develop students’ broader skills and includes components like work-related education, global citizenship, and problem-solving.
- Higher Education: Wales is home to several prestigious universities, including Cardiff University, Swansea University, Bangor University, and Aberystwyth University. The University of Wales also plays a significant role in the higher education landscape. Students from Wales benefit from government funding, which helps reduce the cost of university tuition fees for local residents.
Wales places a strong emphasis on bilingual education, with many schools teaching in both English and Welsh. Welsh-medium schools and universities promote the use of the Welsh language, which is a core element of the national identity.
Transportation in Wales
Wales has a well-developed transportation network that connects its cities, towns, and rural areas, with road, rail, and air services playing key roles.
- Roads and Highways: The road network is extensive, with the M4 motorway being the most important highway, connecting London to South Wales, passing through major cities like Cardiff, Newport, and Swansea. The A55 runs across the northern coast, linking Holyhead to Chester and other parts of England. Public buses and coaches provide transportation between cities and within rural areas.
- Railways: Wales is connected by a national rail network, with major cities like Cardiff, Swansea, and Newport well-served by regular train services. The Great Western Railway provides links between London and South Wales, while the Transport for Wales network offers regional services. Rail services connect key areas, but some remote regions in Wales have limited rail access.
- Airports: Cardiff Airport is the largest international airport in Wales, providing flights to destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Other nearby airports, such as Bristol Airport and Manchester Airport, are also commonly used by Welsh residents for international travel.
- Ports: Wales has several major ports, including Holyhead, which serves as a ferry link between Wales and Ireland, and Milford Haven, which is important for oil and gas shipping. Other ports like Newport and Swansea are used for commercial shipping and tourism.
Major Landmarks and Attractions in Wales
- Snowdonia National Park: This vast national park in North Wales is home to Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park is known for its dramatic landscapes, including rugged mountains, deep valleys, and glacial lakes.
- Cardiff Castle: Located in the heart of the capital, Cardiff Castle is a stunning example of a medieval fortress transformed into a Victorian Gothic masterpiece. The castle’s history spans over 2,000 years, making it one of the most important landmarks in Wales.
- Caernarfon Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Caernarfon Castle is one of the most impressive medieval castles in Europe. Built by King Edward I in the 13th century, it played a significant role in the conquest of Wales and remains an iconic symbol of Welsh history.
- Brecon Beacons National Park: This national park in southern Wales is known for its beautiful landscapes of rolling hills, waterfalls, and caves. The park is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding, with the Brecon Beacons mountain range being the central attraction.
- Pembrokeshire Coast National Park: Located in the southwestern part of Wales, this coastal national park features rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and historic landmarks like St. David’s Cathedral. The park is a haven for wildlife and offers activities like hiking, kayaking, and surfing.
- St. Fagans National Museum of History: Situated near Cardiff, St. Fagans is an open-air museum showcasing traditional Welsh life through reconstructed historic buildings, including farmhouses, mills, and chapels. It’s one of the most popular cultural attractions in Wales.
- Portmeirion: A picturesque village in North Wales, Portmeirion is famous for its colorful Italianate architecture, designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. The village has a Mediterranean feel and is set against a beautiful coastal backdrop, attracting tourists from around the world.
Economy of Wales
Wales has a mixed economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, services, and tourism. Historically, the Welsh economy was dominated by coal mining and heavy industry, particularly in the South Wales Valleys. However, the decline of these industries in the 20th century led to economic restructuring.
- Agriculture: The rural areas of Wales are known for sheep farming, which remains an important part of the economy, particularly in upland regions. Dairy farming is also prevalent.
- Manufacturing: Wales has a strong manufacturing base, with industries such as aerospace, automotive, and steel production playing significant roles. Port Talbot Steelworks is one of the largest steel production facilities in Europe.
- Services and Tourism: The service sector, including retail, financial services, and education, contributes significantly to the economy. Tourism is a key growth area, with visitors attracted to Wales’ national parks, historic sites, and coastline.
Wales has also focused on developing its digital economy and renewable energy sector, particularly in wind and hydroelectric power.
Challenges and Opportunities in Wales
Wales faces several challenges, including disparities in regional economic development and the need to improve infrastructure in rural areas. The decline of traditional industries like coal mining left certain areas with higher levels of unemployment and poverty.
However, there are significant opportunities for economic growth, particularly in tourism, renewable energy, and technology. Cardiff, as a capital city, is growing as a cultural, political, and business hub, attracting investment and international interest. Efforts to promote the Welsh language and culture have also strengthened national identity and tourism appeal.