As of now, Somalia does not host any official SAT test centers due to ongoing security and infrastructure challenges. Somali students who wish to take the SAT typically need to travel to neighboring countries such as Kenya or Ethiopia, where international test centers are available. Nairobi, Kenya, for example, has multiple SAT testing locations. Due to the limited access to SAT centers within Somalia, it is recommended that students plan their registration and travel well in advance. Checking the College Board’s website for updates and the availability of test centers in nearby countries is also essential.
List of 2025-2026 SAT Test Dates in Somalia
Since Somalia currently lacks SAT test centers, students must take the SAT in nearby countries such as Kenya or Ethiopia. The global SAT test dates for the 2025-2026 academic year are as follows:
- August 23, 2025
- October 4, 2025
- December 6, 2025
- March 7, 2026
- May 2, 2026
- June 6, 2026
Students from Somalia should register early, especially if traveling to neighboring countries for the test, as test centers in locations like Nairobi can fill up quickly. Make sure to plan for travel, accommodation, and visa requirements ahead of the exam date.
SAT Test Taking Fees in Somalia
While there are no SAT test centers within Somalia, students registering to take the SAT abroad will be subject to the College Board’s standard international fee structure. The fees are typically as follows:
- Base SAT Fee: $60 (without the Essay)
- International Test Center Fee: $49
- Optional SAT with Essay Fee: +$16 (if the Essay is still offered)
- Additional Fees:
- Late Registration: +$30
- Test Center or Date Change Fee: $25
Depending on whether students choose to take the SAT with or without the Essay, and if they register late, the total cost to take the exam can range from $109 to $155. Somali students should also consider travel and accommodation costs when planning to take the SAT abroad.
How to Register for the SAT in Somalia
Although Somalia lacks SAT test centers, students can register for the SAT to be taken in nearby countries like Kenya or Ethiopia. The registration process is as follows:
- Create a College Board Account: Visit the College Board’s website (collegeboard.org) and create an account if you do not already have one.
- Select a Test Date and Location: Choose an SAT test date from the global schedule and select a nearby test center in Kenya, Ethiopia, or another country with accessible testing locations.
- Provide Personal Information: Complete the registration form with your personal details, including name, contact information, and academic history. Ensure that all information matches your identification documents.
- Upload a Photo: Upload a recent, passport-style photo that meets the College Board’s specifications for identification purposes on test day.
- Pay the Registration Fees: Use a credit or debit card to pay the required fees, including the international testing surcharge.
- Receive Confirmation: After completing registration, you will receive a confirmation email and admission ticket. Print this ticket and bring it with you to the test center.
Early registration is crucial for Somali students, as travel to another country for testing requires additional planning for visas, travel logistics, and accommodation.
Somalia Overview
Country Facts
- Population: Approximately 17 million (as of 2023)
- Capital: Mogadishu
- Largest Cities:
- Mogadishu
- Hargeisa
- Bosaso
- Kismayo
- Baidoa
- Languages:
- Somali (official)
- Arabic (official)
- English (widely spoken)
- Currency: Somali Shilling (SOS)
- ISO Country Codes:
- Alpha-2: SO
- Alpha-3: SOM
- Numeric: 706
Geography
According to Somalia Dictionary, Somalia is located on the eastern coast of Africa, forming part of the region known as the Horn of Africa. It has the longest coastline on mainland Africa, stretching over 3,000 kilometers along the Indian Ocean. The country covers an area of approximately 637,657 square kilometers and shares borders with Ethiopia, Kenya, and Djibouti.
Key geographical features include:
- Guban Coastal Plain: A narrow, dry coastal strip in the north.
- Somali Desert: A hot, arid region that dominates much of the country’s interior.
- Nugal Valley: A dry, seasonal riverbed running through the northern part of the country.
- Mountain Ranges: The Cal Madow range in the north contains Somalia’s highest peak, Shimbiris, which rises to 2,416 meters.
- Climate: Somalia experiences a predominantly hot, arid climate, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C. The country has two main rainy seasons: the Gu (April to June) and the Deyr (October to November), though rainfall is generally sparse.
Education
The education system in Somalia has faced many challenges due to prolonged conflict and instability, but the country has made significant strides in rebuilding its education sector. The system is divided into three main levels: primary, secondary, and tertiary education.
- Primary Education: Primary education is free and lasts for eight years. Enrollment rates have increased in recent years, though challenges remain, especially in rural areas.
- Secondary Education: Secondary school typically lasts four years, after which students can take the Somali Secondary School Certificate. Private schools, often funded by local communities or NGOs, play a major role in providing secondary education.
- Higher Education: Somalia has several universities, including Somali National University in Mogadishu, which was reopened in 2014 after being closed due to conflict. Other universities include Hargeisa University and Amoud University. Many students also pursue higher education abroad, particularly in countries like Turkey and Sudan.
Despite the challenges, Somalia’s education system continues to improve, with efforts from both the government and international organizations to increase access to education and improve infrastructure.
Transportation
Transportation in Somalia is underdeveloped, though efforts have been made to improve infrastructure in recent years. The country’s long-standing conflict has damaged much of its transportation network, but progress is being made in rebuilding roads, ports, and airports.
- Roads: Somalia has a basic road network that connects major cities such as Mogadishu, Hargeisa, and Kismayo. However, many roads are unpaved and in poor condition. In urban areas, taxis and minibuses are common forms of transport.
- Airports: Somalia has several international airports, with Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu being the largest and busiest. Other key airports include Hargeisa International Airport and Bosaso International Airport. Domestic flights are available between major cities, though air travel remains limited.
- Ports: Somalia’s main ports are located in Mogadishu, Berbera, and Kismayo. These ports play a crucial role in the country’s economy, facilitating trade with neighboring countries and international markets.
- Public Transport: In urban areas, minibuses (known locally as caasi) and shared taxis are the main forms of public transportation. In rural areas, transportation options are limited, with many people relying on donkey carts or walking for local travel.
Somalia’s strategic location along the Indian Ocean makes it an important hub for regional trade, though much work remains to improve the country’s transportation infrastructure.
Major Landmarks
Somalia is home to a number of historic and cultural landmarks, reflecting its rich history as a crossroads of African, Arab, and Persian civilizations. Some of the country’s most notable landmarks include:
- Laas Geel: A complex of ancient rock art caves located near Hargeisa. Laas Geel is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the Horn of Africa, featuring well-preserved paintings that are believed to be over 5,000 years old.
- Shanghai Old City: Located in Mogadishu, this area is famous for its mix of Italian, Arab, and Ottoman architecture. Although much of it has been damaged by conflict, it remains a testament to the city’s historical significance as a major port.
- Hargeisa War Memorial: A symbolic monument in the center of Hargeisa, featuring a MiG-17 fighter jet. The memorial commemorates those who died during the Somali Civil War.
- Berbera Beaches: The coastal town of Berbera is known for its beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Aden, offering pristine waters and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
- Kismayo National Park: Located near the southern city of Kismayo, this park is home to diverse wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and various species of birds.
Economy and Global Influence
Somalia’s economy has faced significant challenges due to decades of conflict and political instability, but it is gradually recovering. The country’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, livestock, and remittances from the Somali diaspora.
- Agriculture and Livestock: Livestock exports, particularly to the Gulf States, play a crucial role in Somalia’s economy. The country is also known for its production of bananas, sorghum, and sugarcane.
- Remittances: Money sent back to Somalia by the diaspora is a major source of income for many Somali families. Remittances are estimated to contribute around 30% of the country’s GDP.
- Fishing: Somalia’s long coastline provides rich fishing grounds, though the sector remains underdeveloped due to infrastructure challenges.
- Oil and Minerals: Somalia is believed to have significant untapped reserves of oil and minerals, and there is ongoing interest from foreign companies in exploring these resources.