According to the College Board, there are 1 test centers for SAT and SAT Subject Tests in Mauritania. 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 Mauritania.
SAT Testing Centers in Mauritania
US EMBASSY – AISN
2025-2026 SAT Test Dates in Mauritania
The SAT, a standardized test for college admissions, is held globally, including in Mauritania. For the 2025-2026 academic year, specific SAT test dates in Mauritania are expected to follow the global schedule. Typically, SAT tests are offered seven times annually, with dates in August, October, November, December, March, May, and June.
For Mauritania, students can expect to take the SAT on the following likely dates:
- August 2025
- October 2025
- November 2025
- December 2025
- March 2026
- May 2026
- June 2026
Students should confirm the exact dates on the official SAT website as they may vary slightly based on local circumstances.
SAT Test Taking Fees in Mauritania
The SAT test fees in Mauritania are structured similarly to other countries worldwide. The base fee for the SAT without the essay is approximately $60. For students who choose to take the SAT with the essay, the total fee increases to around $85. Additional costs may apply based on optional services, such as:
- International Registration Fee: An additional $43 for test-takers in Mauritania.
- Late Registration Fee: $30.
- Change Fee: $25 (for test center, test date, or test type changes).
For those requiring additional score reports or rush score reporting, there are separate fees. It’s recommended to check the official SAT website for the most accurate and up-to-date fee information.
How to Register for the SAT in Mauritania
Registering for the SAT in Mauritania follows a straightforward online process. Students need to create an account on the College Board’s official website, which manages SAT registrations globally. After setting up an account, follow these steps:
- Log in to the College Board portal.
- Choose the Test Date: Select one of the available dates for the 2025-2026 test cycle.
- Select a Test Center: In Mauritania, there are designated SAT test centers, often located in major cities such as Nouakchott. Ensure the chosen center is convenient.
- Pay Fees: Complete the registration by paying the applicable SAT fees via credit card or other available payment methods.
- Confirmation: After payment, you will receive a confirmation email. Print your admission ticket for entry to the test center.
Early registration is encouraged to secure a seat, as slots can fill up quickly in smaller countries like Mauritania.
Mauritania Country Overview
Country Facts:
- Population: Approximately 4.7 million (2024 estimate).
- Capital: Nouakchott.
- Largest Cities:
- Nouakchott
- Nouadhibou
- Kaédi
- Languages: Arabic (official), French (widely spoken), and several local languages such as Pulaar, Soninke, and Wolof.
- Currency: Mauritanian Ouguiya (MRU).
- ISO Country Code: MR (ISO 3166).
Geography
According to Shipping Mauritania, Mauritania is located in West Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Senegal to the southwest, Mali to the east and southeast, Algeria to the northeast, and the disputed territory of Western Sahara to the northwest. Covering around 1.03 million square kilometers, Mauritania is one of Africa’s larger countries. Its landscape is dominated by the Sahara Desert in the north and central regions, with some semi-arid areas in the south. The coastline along the Atlantic stretches for about 754 kilometers, offering scenic beaches and vital fishing resources.
The climate is predominantly arid, with hot temperatures and scarce rainfall, particularly in the desert regions. The southern areas, near the Senegal River, have more moderate conditions, supporting some agricultural activities.
Education
Mauritania’s education system follows the French model and consists of primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Arabic is the primary language of instruction in many schools, although French is widely used in science and technical fields. Mauritania has a literacy rate of around 54% (2024 estimate), reflecting ongoing challenges in expanding educational access, particularly in rural areas. The University of Nouakchott is the country’s major higher education institution, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Efforts have been made to improve educational infrastructure, but there are still significant disparities between urban and rural access to quality education. Initiatives focusing on increasing literacy, especially among women and rural populations, are in progress.
Transportation
Mauritania’s transportation infrastructure is developing, with Nouakchott being the primary hub for both air and road networks. Key aspects of the transportation system include:
- Roads: Major highways connect Nouakchott to other key cities like Nouadhibou and Rosso. However, many roads remain unpaved, and traveling in the interior regions can be challenging, especially during the rainy season.
- Railway: Mauritania has one of Africa’s longest freight railways, which connects the iron ore mines of Zouerate to the coastal city of Nouadhibou. This railway is crucial for the country’s mining industry and also offers limited passenger services.
- Airports: Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport is the largest airport in the country, offering international flights to Europe and Africa. Domestic air travel is limited but connects major cities.
- Ports: The port of Nouadhibou is vital for fishing exports and mineral resources, while Nouakchott’s port is expanding its capacity for general cargo.
Public transportation within cities is generally served by taxis and minibuses, though private vehicles are common in urban areas.
Major Landmarks
Mauritania is rich in cultural and natural landmarks that reflect its history, geography, and architectural heritage. Notable sites include:
- Banc d’Arguin National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the Atlantic coast, Banc d’Arguin is an important migratory bird sanctuary and offers stunning landscapes of sand dunes and coastal waters.
- Ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt, and Oualata: These medieval trading towns are remnants of Mauritania’s rich history as a center for trans-Saharan trade and Islamic learning. Chinguetti, in particular, is famous for its well-preserved libraries and Islamic manuscripts.
- Nouakchott Grand Mosque: One of the most important religious sites in the country, this mosque showcases beautiful Islamic architecture and serves as a central place of worship in the capital.
- Iron Ore Train: This train is one of the longest in the world, stretching over two kilometers. It runs through the desert and is essential for transporting iron ore from the Zouerate mines to the coast. Tourists occasionally ride the train for a unique experience of the Sahara.
- Terjit Oasis: A peaceful oasis nestled in the Adrar region, Terjit is known for its natural springs and scenic palm groves, offering a cool retreat from the surrounding desert.
Mauritania’s landmarks reflect its diverse geography and long history as a crossroads of trade and culture in the Islamic world.