What is the SAT?
Many colleges require scores from the SAT or ACT tests as a part of the admissions process. Your SAT score is a key component of your college applications.
| SAT Length | 2 hours 14 minutes |
|---|---|
| SAT Sections |
|
| SAT Cost | $60 |
| Highest SAT Score | 1600 |
| Average SAT Score | 1060 |
About the SAT
The SAT is an entrance exam used by most colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. The SAT is a multiple-choice, computer-based test created and administered by the College Board.
The purpose of the SAT is to measure a high school student’s readiness for college, and provide colleges with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants. College admissions officers will review standardized test scores alongside your high school GPA, the classes you took in high school, letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors, extracurricular activities, admissions interviews, and personal essays. How important SAT scores are in the college application process varies from school to school.
Overall, the higher you score on the SAT and/or ACT, the more options for attending and paying for college will be available to you.
When should I take the SAT?
Most high school students take the SAT, the ACT, or both during the spring of their junior year or fall of their senior year. Most of the US, Canada, UK, Italy and a few Australian universities accept SAT scores for undergraduate admissions from international students. In some cases, students may have a choice to either submit a SAT score or ACT score or even exempt them from submitting any of these standardised tests for admission. SAT exam pattern is very different from ACT, with new changes in SAT, the duration has reduced for SAT exam as well. Most preferred among international students is the SAT exam and a large number of students sit for this exam. It’s important to leave time to re-take the test if you need to raise your score before you apply to college. The SAT exam is offered nationally every year in August, October, November, December, March, May, and June. View all upcoming SAT test dates.
What is on the SAT?
There are two SAT sections:
- Math
- Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
How long is the SAT?
The SAT is 2 hours 14 minutes long.
How is the Good SAT scored?
Each section of the SAT is scored on a 200 to 800 point scale. Your total SAT score is the sum of your section scores. The highest possible SAT score is 1600.
In general, anything above the median, or around 1050, can be considered a good SAT score, as this means you’ve scored better than half of all test-takers.
If possible, though, try to aim even higher — ideally around 1200, which would land you in the top 25% of test-takers and make you a competitive applicant for many schools.
If you’ve got your sights set on a top university, know that accepted students historically score high on the SAT. As of 2023, average Ivy League SAT scores sat around 1450-1550, or the top 1-4% of test-takers.
Ultimately, a good SAT score for you will depend on the expectations of the schools you’re applying to.
Should I take the SAT or the ACT?
Most colleges and universities will accept scores from either the SAT or ACT, and do not favor one test over the other. That said, college-bound students are increasingly taking both the SAT and ACT. Changes made to the SAT in 2016 have made it easier than ever to prep for both tests concurrently—and earn competitive scores on both! The best way to decide if taking the SAT, ACT, or both tests is right for you is to take a timed full-length practice test of each type. Since the content and style of the SAT and ACT are very similar, factors like how you handle time pressure and what types of questions you find most challenging can help you determine which test is a better fit.
How do I register for the SAT?
SAT registration deadlines fall approximately five weeks before each test date. Register online on the College Board website. The College Board may require SAT registration by mail under special circumstances.
How can I prep for the SAT?
The SAT is an opportunity to demonstrate both your skills and your readiness for college-level coursework.
It’s important that you create an SAT study plan. Give yourself at least 2-3 months before your test date to drill practice questions, review content areas, take SAT practice tests, and acquaint yourself with the format and timing of the exam.
Make sure you use high-quality study materials, like top SAT prep books and free official SAT resources. You could also hire an SAT tutor or enroll in an SAT prep course.
We can help. We have SAT prep solutions for every student and every budget.
What is the purpose of SAT exam?
The purpose of SAT exam to check the student’s readiness for college level education by testing them on theirhigh school knowledge. Based on the student’s performance in SAT exam, the colleges are able to compare the performance and admit students based on their scores on SAT exam. Thus, this is the sole purpose of SAT exam to test the students.
How the SAT Is Structured
Each section is divided into 2 equal length modules, and there is a 10-minute break between the Reading and Writing section and the Math section. The first module of each section contains a broad mix of easy, medium, and hard questions. Based on how students perform on the first module, the second module of questions will either be more difficult or less difficult.
Compared to the ACT®, the SAT provides 68% more time per question:
| Component | Time Allotted (minutes) | Number of Questions/Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Reading and Writing | 64 (two 32-minute modules) | 54 |
| Math | 70 (two 35-minute modules) | 44 |
| Total | 134 | 98 |
Most of the questions are multiple choice, though some of the math questions ask you to enter the answer rather than select it.
On all questions, there’s no penalty for guessing: if you’re not sure of the answer, it’s better to guess than leave the response blank.
Scores
The SAT scoring system is simple. Each of the test’s two halves are scored out of 800 points, for a total of 1600.
Source: CollegeBoard.org
You earn points for correct answers and there is no advantage to leaving questions blank, as there was in previous years. There is no penalty for wrong answers, so it is to your advantage to answer every question, even if you are guessing. Raw test scores are converted into an overall scaled score using a sliding chart method that accounts for variations on different tests and test dates. This scoring method is designed so that there is no advantage to taking a particular test, or taking a test on a particular day.
Scores are available a few weeks after the test date. They are relayed by a paper report, by phone, or online. Students who want to double-check their answers after receiving their scores have access to College Board’s Score Verification services.
Students who take multiple tests may use Score Choice to send their best scores to colleges. This allows them to conveniently choose their best test date scores to report to colleges. It’s important to note, however, that some schools may require students to send in all of their test scores. Students are not allowed to pick and choose high-scoring sections from across multiple tests; scores from an entire SAT are sent.
In certain cases, a student may feel they did poorly on the test and want to officially cancel their scores. Scores can be canceled at the test center or by 11:59 p.m. on the Wednesday following the test date. Once the cancellation form is submitted and a score is cancelled, it cannot be reinstated.
Scores can be reported to colleges directly online and through Score Choice. Rush reporting is currently unavailable through the College Board website. Scores must be reported directly from the College Board. The fastest way to send scores to colleges is to register to send free score reports when you sign up for a test date (you can send up to four reports for free). This free service extends for nine days after the test date.
Preparing for the SAT
It’s useful to know as much about the test format as possible. The reading section contains set topic sections including one US/world literature passage, two history/social science passages, and two science passages. All vocabulary will be tested in context. Because of this, studying just vocabulary is less important than doing advanced reading. Familiarizing yourself with diverse real world publications is a great starting place to start studying.
Old SAT test prep books can still be useful too. Just be sure to skip over problems that are no longer included, like sentence completion problems and isolated vocabulary questions. ACT science question are helpful as well, as the SAT is very similar to the ACT, and LSAT books can also be a source of useful information for data reasoning questions. The best overall advice is simply to read. Read widely, and read difficult, challenging articles from well-respected sources. You should also familiarize yourself with graphs and data charts, as these will be more prevalent on the new test, not only in the math section, but also in the reading sections.
Below we have compiled a list of test preparation resources:
Online Practice Tests
Online SAT prep practice tests are usually free and they allow you to view your score and a chart of answers immediately upon completion, or as you go. This is a great way to practice the test and to identify your weak spots, as the score may be broken down into subtopics. Online tests are often free, though more lengthy exams may be offered as part of a subscription or as an addendum to a published study guide book. Students who benefit from repetition and practice should consider taking free online practice tests frequently.
- 4Tests.com: Free updated SAT practice test.
- The College Board: Free online practice tests offered right from the source.
- The Khan Academy: Newly partnered with the College Board, this online tutoring company offers SAT practice online.
- Princeton Review: A staple of SAT test prep in print, and also online formats.
- PrepScholar: Free online SAT practice tests with answer keys.
Study Apps
Many SAT prep apps are available for mobile devices that help students prepare with quick study formats, virtual flashcards, and games.
- CollegeBoard App: Featuring a Question a Day format, this app comes from the creators of the SAT. It features instant practice test scoring and answers, free of charge.
- Prep4 SAT: This app offers thousands of SAT questions and an intuitive study guide that enables you to track your progress and identify weaknesses in detail. Free for a limited time.
- Varsity Tutors SAT Prep: This app enables users to study several different ways, create your own flashcards, and take practice tests.
SAT Prep Course
SAT prep courses are another great way to start studying. These are usually offered in a classroom format or through one-on-one tutorials in person or online. These courses are often several weeks long with multiple classes per week. Expensive services will sometimes offer a score improvement clause, refunding your money if your performance doesn’t improve over your established baseline. Students who want to learn more in-depth SAT test prep strategies may find theses courses useful.
- The Princeton Review: An established test prep guide publisher and tutoring agency. Comes with a 100 point guarantee with the Ultimate Program, starting at $599.
- Kaplan: Long established test prep provider that offers, among other services, in-person and online classes. Live training starts at $499 and on-demand courses start at $99 for 6 months, or try it for one month free.
- Sylvan Learning: Small class format SAT test prep available.
Books
For self-paced study, there is often no better resource than a good arsenal of SAT prep study guides with real practice tests and a detailed answer key. These publications are often used to supplement class work, and many include online components. Students will usually find thorough explanations of each test section and subsection, along with a detailed analysis of test question types and strategies. A good SAT book is a must-have for any test-taker.
- The College Board: This test prep book is published by the creators of the SAT. The 2020 edition provides eight real practice tests with offical answer explanations.
- Kaplan: Excellent all-encompassing multi-media format test book with extras. Covers the new 2017 SAT.
- Princeton Review: New comprehensive practice questions for the redesigned SAT.
Flashcards
Flashcards are most often used for vocabulary study. Though the SAT does not test vocabulary in isolation any more, having a strong vocabulary is still important. Students looking to bolster their vocabulary quickly, and those who do well with rote memory and game-oriented learning, will benefit from using flashcards. Flashcards can be made at home, purchased, or found online and through mobile apps. Some of the best sources include:
- Magoosh: Free SAT vocabulary flashcards for mobile devices.
- Barron’s: More than 500 vocabulary flashcards.
- Varsity Tutors: Flashcards for all sections of the SAT.
Tutors
Private tutoring can help struggling students efficiently work through their biggest deficiencies. Tutoring may be appropriate for struggling students who need extra guidance for the SAT, or for students who score highly and want an extra push to get the best score possible. Often, premium tutoring agencies will offer test-takers a minimum score point increase guarantee over their established baseline.
Tutors can often be found on community boards, college campus listings, and online. Be sure to investigate the effectiveness of any company, and research their history and customer satisfaction. Test books and websites like the College Board may also have resources for finding reputable tutors. Be sure to check any tutor’s credentials and that they have the education and SAT scores to prove they are worth your time and money.
- NUM8ERS Tutors: Connects tutors and students who live in the same area. Tutors are available online or in person.
- Varsity Tutors: Connects tutors and students who live in the same area. Tutors are available online or in person.
- Inspirica: Elite, boutique test preparation tutoring agency located on the East Coast.
- Prep Scholar Tutors: Pre-screened, reputable tutors for all subjects, with an SAT/ACT point guarantee.
SAT Facts and Formulas for Math and Physics
This blog was developed and designed for the version of the SAT that was administered from March, 2005, to March, 2016. The primary changes to the math section of the SAT made in 2016 included a switch from multiple-choice questions with five answers to ones with four answers, along with the introduction of a no-calculator section and a different topic emphasis.
Although the SAT subject tests have essentially remained the same, the SAT has not, and many of the SAT resources to be found here are out of date. However, the calendar is still current, the SAT history page is still a labor of love, and many of the math problems found here remain useful for practice. Just be aware that some math topics represented in the resources may no longer be tested, and that some FAQs may no longer be relevant. Thanks for visiting!
- The SAT Calendar has all SAT test dates and fees for this year.
- The SAT History page has a not very brief account of the nearly 100-year-long story of standardized testing for college admissions in the United States.
- Completely new to the SAT?
- Ready to dive right in with math questions? The Practice page has what you need.
Basic formulas and reference materials for SAT math as well as SAT subject tests can be found below. Whether you are teaching yourself or teaching others, you will find plenty of help here, all of it free to download, copy, print, and distribute under a Creative Commons license. Good luck!
SAT Math Guides
SAT Math Must-Know Facts and Formulas (pdf, 6 pages) — I’ve tried to boil down all the math represented on recent SAT tests to the most important concepts that you will need to know. These facts and formulas (mostly facts, really) seem to be “required knowledge” on just about every SAT Math test. I’ve also sprinkled a few examples in among the forest of facts to help get you started.
SAT Math Facts and Formulas (pdf, 6 pages) — A helpful list of the concepts and formulas that you will need to know to do well on the SAT Math tests. This guide is a little more comprehensive than the Must-Know guide: it also includes topics that appear only occasionally on the SAT tests. Don’t worry if this seems like a lot to remember: If you’re just getting started with the SAT or you have a hard time memorizing formulas, first try the Must-Know facts and formulas.
SAT Math Given Facts and Formulas (pdf, 2 pages) — These are the (few) formulas that you are actually given on the SAT math test. In principle, you don’t have to memorize or even know them, but in practice they are so commonly needed to solve typical test problems that it really makes sense to be very familiar with them ahead of time.
SAT Math Strategies (pdf, 3 pages) — Some general strategies and tips to help you on the SAT Math sections and the SAT Subject tests in Math, including things like when you should or should not take a guess on a question. Two of these strategies (plugging in numbers and working with the answers) are so useful that they get their own quiz and mini-quiz.
SAT Math Must-Know Vocabulary (pdf, 3 pages) — In math, “odd” does not mean “strange”, and “real” is not the opposite of “fake”. This guide contains a short list of math vocabulary words that show up time and again on the SAT. These words will appear without explanation in the math questions on the test, so you better know them cold! If it is the night before the test and you are pressed for time, the one-page (tl;dr) version can be found here.
SAT Math Practice Quizzes
SAT Math Facts and Formulas Quiz (pdf, 24 pages) — After reviewing the guides, test your knowledge of SAT math facts, formulas, and vocabulary with this quiz. Complete answers are included, and many questions involve vegetables of some kind. Because it is important to have enough vegetables every day.
Math Strategies Quiz (pdf, 18 pages) — When you are stumped on an SAT or ACT math question, there are two very useful strategies that may help you to get the correct answer. This review quiz will help you become familiar with these strategies so that they will be second nature when you take the SAT or ACT for real. Complete answers are included.
SAT Subject Math Guides
SAT Subject Math Level 1 Facts and Formulas (pdf, 9 pages) — The SAT Subject tests in Math are a little different than the math portion of the regular SAT: the subject tests are more about achievement and how much you’ve progressed in your math courses in school. To help, I’ve taken the regular SAT math facts and formulas (which you have to know anyway to take this test) and added the extra concepts that you’ll need on the Level 1 test. For example, I’ve added a few things about trigonometry, complex numbers, compound functions, and as many examples as I could stuff into fewer than 10 pages!
SAT Subject Math Level 2 Facts and Formulas (pdf, 11 pages) — If you aren’t afraid of infinite geometric sequences, trigonometry, or natural logarithms, then the Math Level 2 test is for you! You also won’t mind that this facts and formulas guide comes in at 11 pages. I’ve taken the facts and formulas from Level 1 (which you have to know anyway to take this test) and added the extra concepts that you’ll need on the Level 2 test. For example, I’ve added more trigonometric formulas, stuff about logs, and some facts about conic sections among other things. Enjoy!
SAT Subject Math Given Facts and Formulas (pdf, 1 page) — These are the (five, count ’em, five) formulas that you are actually given on the SAT Subject Math test (both levels). These five formulas are not heavily used (they all have to do with volumes and areas of solids) so, unlike the given formulas for the regular SAT math test, it really doesn’t make sense to memorize these. You have a long list of other formulas to know as it is!
SAT Subject Physics Guides
SAT Subject Physics Formula Reference (pdf, 12 pages) — If you already have plenty of review books and guides, but just want a nice, all-in-one-place summary of formulas, look no further! Note that you are not given any formulas on the test. This guide lists about 50 of the most important physics formulas for the physics subject test.
SAT Subject Physics Facts and Formulas (pdf, 18 pages) — A concise but comprehensive guide to the facts and formulas typically covered by the SAT Subject Test for physics. Use as a reference, or for quick review, or as something to e-mail to friends to help them out.
Basic Algebra Concepts: Lesson 2.2
Basic Algebra Concepts: Lesson 1.4
Basic Algebra Concepts: Lesson 1
SAT Math: Tips! Tricks! Traps! Techniques!
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