For students in China looking to take the SAT, the College Board provides several designated test centers across major cities. Due to high demand and limited seats, students are encouraged to register well in advance. Popular SAT test centers are located in international schools, universities, and designated testing venues. Here are a few cities that typically host SAT test centers:
- Beijing: Beijing National Day School, Western Academy of Beijing
- Shanghai: Shanghai American School, Concordia International School
- Guangzhou: American International School of Guangzhou
- Shenzhen: Shekou International School
- Chengdu: Chengdu International School
However, SAT availability at these centers may vary, and students should check the College Board website for the most up-to-date information on locations and seat availability. Test center seats often fill up quickly, so early registration is advised.
List of 2025-2026 SAT Test Dates in China
For the 2025-2026 academic year, the SAT will be offered multiple times in China. While the exact dates are subject to confirmation by the College Board, the expected test dates based on the regular SAT testing schedule are as follows:
- August 23, 2025
- October 4, 2025
- December 6, 2025
- March 7, 2026
- May 2, 2026
- June 6, 2026
Each of these test dates will have registration deadlines approximately a month prior, so it is important for students to plan their registration and preparation accordingly. These dates provide ample opportunities for students to take the SAT multiple times if necessary.
SAT Test Taking Fees in China
Taking the SAT in China involves specific costs, which include both the base fee for the test and additional international surcharges. Below is a typical breakdown of the fees:
- Base SAT Fee: $60 (for the SAT without Essay)
- International Test Center Fee: $49
- Optional SAT with Essay Fee: +$16 (if available)
- Additional Fees:
- Late Registration: $30
- Change Test Center/Date: $25
For most students, the total cost for taking the SAT in China is approximately $109 to $155, depending on their test choices and additional administrative charges. Students are encouraged to check the latest fees on the College Board website as these can be subject to change. Payments are typically made online through credit or debit cards during the registration process.
How to Register for the SAT in China
Registering for the SAT in China is a relatively simple process that can be completed online through the College Board’s website. Follow these steps to successfully register:
- Create a College Board Account: Visit the official website at collegeboard.org and sign up for an account if you do not already have one.
- Select a Test Date and Location: After logging into your account, choose your preferred test date from the available SAT test dates in China. Then, select a test center near you.
- Fill in Personal and Educational Information: Provide your details such as name, date of birth, address, and educational background. This information must match your identification documents.
- Upload a Photo: Ensure that the photo you upload meets the required specifications, as this photo will be used for identification purposes at the test center.
- Pay the Fees: Use a valid payment method (usually a credit card) to pay the registration fees, including any international and optional charges.
- Receive Confirmation: Once registration is complete, you will receive a confirmation email. You should print your admission ticket and bring it with you on test day.
It is important to register early, as seats at test centers in China fill up quickly.
China Overview
Country Facts
- Population: Approximately 1.4 billion (as of 2023)
- Capital: Beijing
- Largest Cities:
- Beijing
- Shanghai
- Guangzhou
- Shenzhen
- Chongqing
- Languages:
- Mandarin (official)
- Regional languages and dialects include Cantonese, Shanghainese, and Hakka.
- Currency: Renminbi (RMB or CNY)
- ISO Country Codes:
- Alpha-2: CN
- Alpha-3: CHN
- Numeric: 156
Geography
According to Clothing China, China is the world’s fourth-largest country by land area, covering 9.6 million square kilometers. It is a geographically diverse country, featuring mountains, plateaus, deserts, and extensive river systems. Notable geographical features include:
- The Himalayas: In southwest China, home to Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world.
- Major Rivers: The Yangtze River and the Yellow River, crucial for agriculture and transport.
- Deserts: The Gobi Desert and the Taklamakan Desert in northern China.
- Coastal Areas: The country has an expansive coastline along the East China Sea, Yellow Sea, and South China Sea.
The varying climates across the country range from tropical in the south to temperate in the north, with harsh conditions in the high-altitude western regions.
Education
Education in China is highly competitive, with significant emphasis placed on academic achievement from a young age. The 9-year compulsory education system ensures that all children attend primary and junior secondary school. Following this, students can pursue senior high school, vocational education, or enter the workforce.
China’s national college entrance exam, known as the Gaokao, is one of the most important exams in a student’s life and determines university admissions. The country has seen rapid advancements in higher education, with institutions such as Tsinghua University, Peking University, and Fudan University consistently ranking among the top universities worldwide.
In addition, Chinese students frequently pursue higher education abroad, with the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia being popular study destinations.
Transportation
China has invested heavily in developing one of the world’s most advanced transportation networks. Major forms of transportation include:
- High-Speed Rail: China operates the largest high-speed rail system in the world, with trains traveling up to 350 km/h. Popular routes include the Beijing-Shanghai line and the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong route.
- Airports: China has numerous international airports, including Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport.
- Urban Transit: Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou have extensive subway systems that are efficient and reliable.
- Road Networks: China has developed a vast highway system and is a global leader in electric vehicle production and infrastructure.
With ongoing investments in infrastructure, China’s transportation system continues to expand and modernize, making travel more accessible for its residents and international visitors.
Major Landmarks
China is home to a wealth of iconic landmarks, ranging from ancient wonders to modern architectural marvels. Some of the most famous landmarks include:
- The Great Wall of China: One of the world’s greatest architectural achievements, the Great Wall stretches over 13,000 miles and was originally built for defense against invasions.
- The Forbidden City: A palace complex in the heart of Beijing, which served as the imperial residence for Chinese emperors for centuries.
- Terracotta Army: An archaeological wonder in Xi’an, featuring thousands of life-sized clay soldiers that were buried with the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang.
- The Bund: Located in Shanghai, the Bund is known for its historical European-style buildings and its modern skyline across the Huangpu River.
- Potala Palace: In Lhasa, Tibet, the Potala Palace was once the residence of the Dalai Lama and is a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism.
- Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Famous for its towering sandstone pillars, this park was the inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie “Avatar.”
These landmarks represent the rich history and dynamic culture of China, drawing millions of visitors from around the world each year.
Economy and Global Influence
China has become the world’s second-largest economy and is a key player in global trade and finance. Known as the “world’s factory” due to its extensive manufacturing capabilities, China has developed rapidly in the technology, automotive, and telecommunications sectors. Major Chinese companies like Huawei, Tencent, and Alibaba are recognized as global leaders in innovation and development.
China’s role as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and its active participation in global initiatives, such as climate change agreements and international trade forums, make it an essential player on the global stage.