I am taking the SAT this Saturday for the first time as a senior(yeah I know, I am really late).
The colleges that I am applying to have a Jan 15 application deadline.
Will my SAT scores make it in time or do I have to send in my scores directly to the college? Is there a rush delivery option I could do, if so how much faster would it be to get the scores?
My college counselor advises us to order our scores before the test date so they are delivered as soon as possible.
With Jan 15 deadlines you should be fine simply sending the test scores regular delivery. Moreover, you should check the colleges rules carefully because (a) many tell you they do not want rush delivery, and (b) for the vast majority your scores can arrive after the app deadline.
There are two types of regular delivery. You can name the college in your test registration file as one to automatically receive scores upon release, such as one of your free sends. Alternatively, you can wait until score is released and order the test sent for an additonal fee. Most colleges today have electronic delivery from College Board in the form of an online account with CB into which CB places all scores. Usually, if you name a college in your test registration to receive scores, your scores will be placed into that online account for the college on or up to two days before the scores are released to you. If you order after scores come out, that deposit into the college’s account usually takes between three days to a week after your order to occur after the order.
The above is what would normally happen. Be aware that CB has had issues getting scores out in a timely manner and sending them timely this Fall. Many had inordinate delays for the October test and some delays are being reported for the Nov test despite CB’s assurance that the problem was being fixed. That issue has existed regardless of whether applicants had scores sent regular or rush delivery. I am assuming by the Dec test, the problems will be over, but you need to be aware of the issue.