SAT Test Centers and Dates in South Africa

topschoolsintheusa March 19, 2019

According to the College Board, there are 11 test centers for SAT and SAT Subject Tests in South Africa. 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 South Africa.

SAT Testing Centers in South Africa

2025-2026 SAT Test Dates in South Africa

Students in South Africa planning to take the SAT during the 2025-2026 academic year have several options for test dates. Here are the anticipated SAT test dates:

• March 8, 2025
• May 3, 2025
• June 7, 2025
• August 23, 2025
• October 4, 2025
• November 1, 2025
• December 6, 2025
• March 14, 2026
• May 2, 2026
• June 6, 2026

These dates are subject to change, so students should check with their local test centers or the College Board website for the most up-to-date information. Early registration is recommended to secure a spot at preferred test locations.

SAT Test Taking Fees in South Africa

The SAT fees for students in South Africa for the 2025-2026 academic year are similar to other international locations. Here is a breakdown of the costs:

• SAT without Essay: $104
• SAT with Essay: $120 (if available, as the essay section is being phased out in many areas)
• Late Registration Fee: $30
• Change Fee: $30 (for changing the test date or test center)

Payments can be made online via the College Board website using credit or debit cards. Students should register early to avoid late fees and ensure their preferred test center and date are available.

How to Register for the SAT in South Africa

Registering for the SAT in South Africa is a simple online process via the College Board’s website. Follow these steps:

1. Create a College Board Account: Start by creating an account on the College Board website. This account will be used to manage your SAT registration and view your scores.
2. Choose a Test Date and Location: Select your preferred test date and test center. Test centers are typically located in major cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban.
3. Complete the Personal Information: Fill out the necessary personal and academic information accurately.
4. Upload a Photo: You will need to upload a passport-style photo that meets SAT guidelines.
5. Pay the Fees: Use a credit or debit card to pay the applicable registration fees.
6. Print Your Admission Ticket: Once registration is complete, print your admission ticket, which you’ll need to bring to the test center on the day of the exam.

Register early to avoid additional fees and secure a spot at your preferred test center.

South Africa Country Overview

Country Facts

• Population: Approximately 60 million (2024 estimate)
• Capital Cities:
  • Pretoria (Executive Capital)
  • Cape Town (Legislative Capital)
  • Bloemfontein (Judicial Capital)
• Largest Cities:
  • Johannesburg
  • Cape Town
  • Durban
  • Pretoria
  • Port Elizabeth
• Official Languages:
  • There are 11 official languages, including English, Zulu, Xhosa, and Afrikaans
• Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)
• ISO Country Codes:
  • Alpha-2: ZA
  • Alpha-3: ZAF
  • Numeric Code: 710

Geography

According to Security South Africa, South Africa is located at the southern tip of Africa, bordered by Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Eswatini, with Lesotho being an enclave within its territory. South Africa’s geographic diversity ranges from dramatic coastlines to mountains, deserts, and fertile plains.

• Area: The country spans 1.22 million square kilometers, making it the 24th largest country in the world.
• Topography: South Africa has a varied landscape, including the Drakensberg Mountains in the east, the Great Karoo desert, and the fertile valleys of the Cape Winelands. The country’s coastline stretches over 2,500 kilometers along the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
• Rivers: Major rivers include the Orange River, the longest river in South Africa, and the Limpopo River, which forms part of the country’s northern border.
• Climate: South Africa has a diverse climate, ranging from Mediterranean in the southwestern Cape to semi-desert in the Karoo. The coastal areas enjoy a moderate climate, while the interior highlands have more extreme temperature variations.

South Africa’s geography offers a wide range of natural environments, from lush national parks to arid deserts, making it a country of stunning contrasts.

Education

South Africa’s education system has made significant strides since the end of apartheid, with a focus on improving access and quality across all levels. The country follows a structure similar to many international education systems.

• Primary and Secondary Education: Education is compulsory for children from ages 7 to 15, covering both primary and secondary levels. The system is divided into primary education (Grades 1-7) and secondary education (Grades 8-12). At the end of secondary school, students take the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, which are critical for university admission. South Africa’s public and private schools follow different curricula, with private schools often offering international programs such as the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) or International Baccalaureate (IB).
• Higher Education: South Africa is home to several internationally recognized universities, including the University of Cape Town (UCT), University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), Stellenbosch University, and University of Pretoria. These institutions offer a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The government has invested in higher education to support research and development in fields such as science, engineering, and business.
• Vocational Training: In addition to traditional academic education, South Africa has a strong focus on vocational training. The country’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges provide training in practical skills such as engineering, IT, healthcare, and hospitality.
• Challenges: Despite improvements, challenges remain, including inequality in access to quality education, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Ongoing reforms aim to address these disparities and improve the overall quality of education.

South Africa’s education system continues to evolve, with increasing efforts to expand access to quality learning and to meet the demands of the global workforce.

Transportation

South Africa has a well-developed transportation infrastructure that connects its major cities and regions, supporting both domestic travel and international trade. The country’s network includes modern roads, railways, airports, and seaports.

• Road Network: South Africa has an extensive road network, with modern highways connecting major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. The N1, N2, and N3 highways are the main routes that link different parts of the country. Public buses, taxis, and minibus taxis (commonly called “combis”) are the most common forms of urban transport. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are also widely available in major cities.
• Railways: South Africa’s railway system is operated by PRASA (Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa) for commuter trains and Transnet for freight services. Major cities are connected by long-distance trains, such as the Shosholoza Meyl service, and luxury train journeys are offered by the Blue Train and Rovos Rail. However, rail infrastructure in many areas requires upgrades.
• Airports: South Africa has several international airports, the largest being O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, which is a major hub for flights to and from Africa, Europe, and beyond. Other key airports include Cape Town International Airport and King Shaka International Airport in Durban. Domestic flights are well-serviced by carriers such as South African Airways and FlySafair.
• Seaports: South Africa’s ports are vital for international trade. The Port of Durban is the busiest in Africa, handling container traffic, while Port Elizabeth and Cape Town ports are also crucial for imports and exports. The Port of Richards Bay is a major hub for bulk cargo like coal and minerals.

South Africa’s transportation infrastructure is vital for its economy, connecting its vast geography and facilitating both domestic travel and international trade.

Major Landmarks

South Africa is renowned for its natural beauty, diverse cultures, and rich history. The country boasts numerous landmarks that attract millions of visitors every year, from historic sites to breathtaking natural wonders.

• Table Mountain: Located in Cape Town, Table Mountain is one of South Africa’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can hike or take a cable car to the top, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding landscapes. The mountain is part of the Table Mountain National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Kruger National Park: One of Africa’s largest and most famous game reserves, Kruger National Park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). The park offers a range of safari experiences, from self-drive tours to guided excursions, and is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
• Robben Island: Located off the coast of Cape Town, Robben Island is famous for being the prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 of his 27 years in captivity. The island is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a museum, offering tours that explore South Africa’s struggle for freedom and equality.
• Apartheid Museum: Situated in Johannesburg, the Apartheid Museum provides a poignant and comprehensive look at South Africa’s apartheid era. Through exhibits and multimedia presentations, visitors gain insight into the country’s history of racial segregation and the eventual triumph of democracy.
• Drakensberg Mountains: The Drakensberg Mountains, located in KwaZulu-Natal, are the highest mountain range in South Africa, offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and rock art from the San people. The uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Cape Winelands: The Cape Winelands, located near Cape Town, are famous for producing some of the world’s best wines. Towns such as Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are known for their vineyards, historic architecture, and wine-tasting experiences, making them popular destinations for food and wine lovers.
• Blyde River Canyon: The Blyde River Canyon is the third-largest canyon in the world and is known for its lush vegetation, waterfalls, and dramatic rock formations. Located in Mpumalanga Province, the canyon offers numerous hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, including God’s Window.
• Union Buildings: Situated in Pretoria, the Union Buildings are the official seat of the South African government and the office of the president. The buildings are an architectural masterpiece, surrounded by beautiful gardens and offering panoramic views of the city.