SAT - Scholastic Aptitude Test
SAT is a standardized test widely used for Undergrad admissions in the United States and a few other countries. SAT or ACT score is a key component in the application process for many colleges. The purpose of SAT exam is to measure the college readiness of the students. College Board, an American not-for-profit organization is the owner and administrator of the SAT exam.
In India, nearly 35 universities accept the SAT score for admissions and the list is growing. Now, students can take one test, SAT, in place of many entrance tests and can apply to many universities in India and worldwide. India Global Higher Education Alliance founded by College Board is in partnership with Indian universities to simplify the admission process for Indian students. They also offer SAT fee waiver and scholarship programs for Indian students.
What is tested on SAT exam?
SAT exam is a paper-pencil test with 2 main sections; SAT Evidence based Reading & Writing and SAT Math.
SAT Evidence based Reading & Writing has two tests, SAT Reading, SAT Writing & SAT Language. SAT Math has two components, No calculator and Yes calculator.
SAT Reading section has passages based on literature, historical documents, social sciences, and natural sciences. Writing & Language are also passage based testing Grammar, vocabulary in context, and editing skills. Math sections mainly tests Algebra, Arithmetic, Data analysis, Geometry and Trigonometry.
SAT Exam Structure -
| Section | Questions | Duration | Score Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Reading | 52 multiple choice questions | 65 minutes | 200 to 800 |
| Break | 10 minutes | ||
| SAT Writing & Language | 44 multiple choice questions | 35 minutes | |
| No Calculator – SAT Math | 20 (15 multiple choice and 5 student response questions) | 25 minutes | 200 to 800 |
| Break | 5 minutes | ||
| Yes Calculator – SAT Math | 38 (30 multiple choice and 8 student response questions) | 55 minutes |
SAT exam is more than 4 hours long including the breaks. The composite score for the SAT exam ranges from 400 to 1600 which is the sum of SAT Evidence based SAT Reading, SAT Writing and SAT Math section scores.
Students can prepare for the SAT exam in two ways: self-study and coaching classes. Both options have distinct advantages, and they are equally good in terms of quantitative advantages. Because the SAT structure s been totally redesigned and is now referred to as the Redesigned SAT or the New SAT, you will need to purchase SAT books designed for the new SAT structure.
Good time management and English speaking skills are required for SAT preparation. The first step in SAT preparation is to study books and newspaper articles on a regular basis, and the second step is to practise test papers on a regular basis. SAT exam study plans vary depending on the student’s limitations and strengths. In most cases, SAT preparation takes roughly three months. As a result, you can devise a study strategy. SAT coaching might be beneficial incorrectly helping a beginning. Solving SAT previous year papers, in addition to coaching, will help re-takers strengthen their weak areas.
SAT preparation needs to be started by thoroughly knowing the sections. Students can enroll in SAT coaching classes, SAT exam coaching, or self-preparation to prepare for SAT exam.