Kentucky replaces ACT with SAT for high school juniors starting in spring 2026

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Kentucky high school students will now have to learn how to take the SAT instead of the ACT for college admissions.

The Kentucky Department of Education has decided to enter a four-year contract the College Board to administer the SAT Junior State Administration beginning in spring 2026.

High school juniors will take the SAT during the school day as part of the state's required college admissions exam testing.

“The move to the SAT gives Kentucky students access to powerful tools that support their success, like free, personalized practice through Khan Academy and a new digital format that’s shorter, adaptive and designed to be more student-friendly with fast score reporting,” Commissioner of Education Robbie Fletcher said in a news release Tuesday.

KDE said students and families will have access to a wide range of supports to help them navigate the SAT experience.

Students will also have access to free test preparation materials.

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