Based on the results of the diagnostic, juniors should take either the SAT or ACT in the early winter. Ideally, juniors want to have one or two tries with the SAT or ACT by mid-spring, so they can focus on AP exams, finals and possibly SAT subject tests (students may take up to three subject tests at one time). The fall of senior year is an opportunity to repeat the SAT or ACT to try to achieve a higher score.
For SAT testing schedules and registration deadlines, check out the College Board website. For ACT dates, ACT Inc lists tests and registration deadlines through June 2017. Students may also want to check out a list of test-optional colleges at Fair Test.