SATs exams are national assessments that take place in primary schools in England. The tests measure how well pupils understand key subjects such as reading, grammar and mathematics.
Students usually take the SATs in Year 6, when they are around 10 or 11 years old. Schools use these tests to assess what pupils have learned during primary school.
SATs matter because they help teachers understand a pupil’s progress before they move to secondary school. The results show how well students have developed important skills in English and maths.
In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about SATs exams 2026. We will look at the exam dates, the subjects included in the tests and simple ways students can prepare with confidence.
When Are SATs Exams in 2026?
SATs exams take place during a dedicated assessment week in May each year. For SATs 2026, the tests will run from Monday 11 May to Thursday 14 May 2026. During this week, Year 6 pupils complete a series of national assessments in English and mathematics.
Schools follow a fixed timetable set by the government. Because of this, all primary schools in England run the tests on the same days. The exams usually take place in normal classrooms under exam-style conditions.
SATs 2026 Exam Timetable
- Monday 11 May – Grammar, punctuation and spelling papers
- Tuesday 12 May – Reading test
- Wednesday 13 May – Maths Paper 1 (Arithmetic) and Maths Paper 2 (Reasoning)
- Thursday 14 May – Maths Paper 3 (Reasoning)
Each test focuses on the key skills pupils learn during primary school. Schools prepare students throughout Year 6 so they feel confident when SATs week arrives. Check official information on GOV.UK website.
How SATs Exams Are Marked
After students complete their SATs tests, exam boards mark the papers externally. This means trained markers outside the school review the answers to ensure consistent grading across the country.
Once the marking process finishes, pupils receive scaled scores. The scale usually runs from 80 to 120. A score of 100 represents the expected standard for Year 6 pupils.
These results help schools understand how well pupils performed in reading, grammar and mathematics. Teachers then use this information to support students as they move on to secondary school. For more, see the guide – “Year 6 SATs Scores Explained“.
What Subjects Are Tested in SATs?
SATs exams assess key skills that pupils learn during primary school. The tests focus on English and mathematics. These subjects form an important part of the national curriculum and help schools measure pupils’ progress before they move to secondary school.
English Reading
The reading test measures how well pupils understand different types of texts. Students read passages and answer questions that test comprehension, vocabulary and interpretation. The test checks whether pupils can understand information, identify key ideas and explain the meaning from a text.
Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling
This test focuses on the rules of written English. Pupils answer questions about grammar and punctuation, and they also complete a spelling test. The aim is to assess how well students understand sentence structure, punctuation rules and correct spelling.
Mathematics
The maths tests include both arithmetic and reasoning questions. Pupils solve calculations and apply mathematical thinking to different types of problems. These papers measure key maths skills such as number operations, problem solving and logical reasoning.
Together, these subjects measure the core skills pupils develop through the national curriculum during their primary school years.
How to Prepare for SATs Exams 2026
Preparing for SATs exams does not need to feel overwhelming. With the right approach, students can build confidence and improve their skills step by step. Starting preparation early often helps pupils feel more comfortable when exam week arrives.
Practise Past Papers
Past papers help students understand how SATs questions look. They show the format of the tests and the types of questions pupils may see. Regular practise also helps students become more familiar with exam conditions.
Build Strong Maths and Reading Skills
Strong reading and maths skills make a big difference in SATs exams. Students should spend time reading different texts and practising comprehension questions. At the same time, regular maths practise can strengthen problem-solving and calculation skills.
Stay Organised With Revision
A simple revision plan can help students stay on track. Short and regular study sessions often work better than long revision periods. Breaking topics into smaller sections can also make revision easier to manage.
Many students also benefit from extra academic support. Online tutoring can help pupils practise SATs-style questions, improve their understanding of difficult topics and build confidence before the exams.
Common Concerns About SATs Exams 2026
Many parents have questions about SATs exams. These assessments take place at an important stage of primary school, so it is natural for families to feel uncertain. Understanding how the tests work can help reduce unnecessary stress.
Are SATs Stressful?
SATs can feel challenging for some pupils. However, schools usually prepare students throughout the year so they feel comfortable with the format. Teachers often practise SATs-style questions in class and encourage pupils to approach the tests with confidence.
Do They Affect Secondary School Placement?
SATs results do not decide which secondary school a child attends. Secondary school places are usually based on local authority applications and school admissions policies. SATs mainly help teachers understand a pupil’s academic progress at the end of primary school.
What Happens if a Child Misses a Test?
If a pupil misses a test due to illness or another valid reason, the school will follow official guidance from the exam authorities. In some cases, schools may arrange a test on an alternative day during SATs week. Teachers will explain the process and support the student if this happens.
Conclusion
SATs exams help schools measure pupils’ progress in English and mathematics at the end of primary school. These assessments give teachers a clear picture of how well students understand key skills before they move to secondary education.
For SATs 2026, the tests will take place in May 2026. Understanding the timetable and knowing what subjects are included can help both students and parents feel more prepared.
Starting preparation early can also make a big difference. Practising reading and maths skills throughout the year helps students build confidence before the exams begin.
Many families also use extra academic support during this period. Online tutoring can help pupils practise SATs-style questions, strengthen key subjects and approach the exams with greater confidence.
FAQs
What are SATs exams?
SATs exams are national assessments taken by pupils in primary school in England. Students usually take them in Year 6, when they are around 10 or 11 years old. The tests measure how well pupils understand key subjects such as reading, grammar and mathematics.
When are SATs exams in 2026?
SATs exams in 2026 will take place from Monday 11 May to Thursday 14 May. During this week, Year 6 pupils complete tests in English and mathematics.
What subjects are included in SATs?
SATs exams include tests in reading, grammar, punctuation and spelling, and mathematics. The maths tests usually include both arithmetic and reasoning questions.
Are SATs important for secondary school?
SATs results do not determine which secondary school a child attends. Schools mainly use the results to understand a pupil’s academic progress at the end of primary school.
