According to the College Board, there are 1 test centers for SAT and SAT Subject Tests in Lao. 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 Lao.
SAT Testing Centers in Lao
VIENTIANE INTL SCH
2025-2026 SAT Test Dates in Laos
Students in Laos planning to take the SAT during the 2025-2026 academic year can select from several international test dates. The expected SAT test dates are as follows:
- August 2025
- October 2025
- November 2025
- December 2025
- March 2026
- May 2026
- June 2026
These dates are part of the international SAT schedule, and students in Laos should confirm the exact test dates and locations via the College Board website. SAT test centers are usually located in major cities such as Vientiane, and early registration is recommended to ensure a seat at the nearest center.
SAT Test Taking Fees in Laos
The SAT test-taking fees in Laos are in line with the international fees set by the College Board. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the fees include:
- SAT (without Essay): Approximately $60.
- SAT (with Essay): Around $85.
- International Registration Fee: An additional $43 for students in Laos registering for the SAT.
- Late Registration Fee: $30 for registering after the deadline.
- Change Fee: $25 if students need to change their test date, center, or test type.
Additional costs may be incurred for sending extra score reports or opting for rush services. Students should check the College Board website for the most up-to-date fee information.
How to Register for the SAT in Laos
Registering for the SAT in Laos is an easy online process. Students can follow these steps:
- Create an Account: Go to the College Board website and create a student account if you don’t have one.
- Select a Test Date: Choose from the available SAT test dates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
- Find a Test Center: Select a test center in Laos, usually located in major cities such as Vientiane.
- Pay the Fees: Complete the registration by paying the necessary fees via a credit card or another accepted payment method.
- Receive Confirmation: After registration, you will receive a confirmation email with your admission ticket, which must be printed and brought to the test center on the exam day.
Early registration is highly recommended, as space may be limited at certain test centers.
Laos Country Overview
Country Facts
- Population: Approximately 7.5 million (2024 estimate).
- Capital: Vientiane.
- Largest Cities:
- Vientiane
- Pakse
- Luang Prabang
- Savannakhet
- Thakhek
- Languages: Lao (official), French, English, various ethnic languages.
- Currency: Lao Kip (LAK).
- ISO Country Code: LA (ISO 3166).
Geography
Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, bordered by China to the north, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the southeast, Thailand to the west, and Myanmar to the northwest. Covering an area of approximately 236,800 square kilometers, Laos is known for its mountainous terrain, tropical rainforests, and the mighty Mekong River, which runs through the country and forms part of its border with Thailand.
Laos’ geography is dominated by the Annamite Range, a mountainous region running along the eastern side of the country, as well as the low-lying areas along the Mekong River. The country’s highest point is Phou Bia, at 2,819 meters. Laos enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. The country is rich in biodiversity, with dense forests and wildlife sanctuaries playing a crucial role in its environmental landscape.
Agriculture is the primary economic activity, with rice cultivation being the most significant crop. The Mekong River serves as a vital resource for irrigation, fishing, and transportation.
Education
Education in Laos has seen significant improvements in recent years, though challenges remain, particularly in rural areas where access to quality education is limited. The country’s education system is divided into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Primary education is compulsory and lasts five years, followed by lower secondary and upper secondary education. The government has made efforts to increase enrollment and literacy rates, and education is provided in the Lao language, though French and English are also widely taught.
Laos has several universities, including the National University of Laos (NUOL) in Vientiane, which offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Technical and vocational education has also expanded in recent years, providing students with skills needed for the job market, particularly in fields such as agriculture, engineering, and tourism.
Despite improvements, the education system faces challenges such as teacher shortages, insufficient infrastructure, and a lack of educational resources, particularly in remote areas. To address these issues, the government and international organizations are working together to enhance educational access and quality.
Transportation
Laos’ transportation infrastructure is still developing, with much of the country relying on roads, waterways, and a limited rail network. Given its mountainous terrain and the presence of the Mekong River, transportation can be challenging in some regions, especially during the rainy season. Key aspects of the transportation system in Laos include:
- Roads: The majority of transportation in Laos occurs via road. The country’s road network connects major cities and towns, with the Route 13 being the main north-south highway linking Vientiane with Luang Prabang in the north and Pakse in the south. While some roads are paved, many rural roads remain unpaved and can be difficult to traverse, especially during the rainy season.
- Public Transport: In cities like Vientiane, buses and shared minivans are the primary forms of public transportation. Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are also popular for short-distance travel. Intercity buses connect larger towns, but services are infrequent and often slow due to the country’s challenging terrain.
- Railways: Laos has a limited railway system. The Laos-China Railway, which opened in 2021, is a major infrastructure development, connecting Vientiane with the Chinese border and offering significant potential for trade and travel between the two countries. The railway has improved connectivity, providing a faster and more efficient route between Laos and China. Additionally, the Thanaleng Station near Vientiane connects Laos to Thailand via the Friendship Bridge, providing rail services to Bangkok.
- Waterways: The Mekong River plays a vital role in Laos’ transportation, particularly in regions along the river. Ferries and boats are commonly used to transport goods and people, especially in areas with limited road access. The Mekong is also a crucial trade route for exporting agricultural products.
- Airports: Wattay International Airport in Vientiane is the main international gateway, offering flights to neighboring countries and some international destinations. Other airports, such as Luang Prabang International Airport and Pakse International Airport, serve regional and domestic flights. Domestic air travel is often the quickest way to travel between distant regions due to the country’s rugged terrain.
Major Landmarks
Laos is home to several culturally and historically significant landmarks, as well as natural attractions that showcase its rich history and diverse landscapes. Some of the most notable landmarks include:
- Pha That Luang: Located in Vientiane, Pha That Luang is the most important national monument in Laos. This large gold-covered Buddhist stupa is a symbol of Lao sovereignty and Buddhism, and it dates back to the 16th century. It is a major pilgrimage site and a central symbol of the nation.
- Luang Prabang: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Luang Prabang is one of the most visited cities in Laos due to its well-preserved architecture, Buddhist temples, and stunning natural surroundings. Key attractions include the Royal Palace Museum, Wat Xieng Thong, and the nearby Kuang Si Waterfalls. The city’s location at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers adds to its scenic beauty.
- Plain of Jars: Located in the Xiangkhouang Province, the Plain of Jars is an archaeological site consisting of thousands of large stone jars scattered across the landscape. The origin and purpose of the jars remain a mystery, and the site is a fascinating piece of Lao history.
- Vat Phou: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vat Phou is a ruined Khmer Hindu temple complex located in southern Laos, near the Mekong River. Dating back to the 11th century, Vat Phou offers insight into the region’s ancient history and is a popular pilgrimage site.
- Vang Vieng: A town known for its stunning limestone karst landscapes, Vang Vieng is popular among adventure travelers. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, tubing, rock climbing, and exploring the many caves and lagoons in the area.
- Bokeo Nature Reserve and Gibbon Experience: The Bokeo Nature Reserve is home to the Gibbon Experience, where visitors can explore the forest canopy via zip-lines and treehouses, while also encountering the black-crested gibbon, a rare primate species.