SAT Exam: How to Apply, Fees, Eligibility & More
The full form of the SAT Exam is Standardised College Admission Test in the United States. The College Board conducts the SAT that evaluates students based on the knowledge and skills acquired in high school, which can help them succeed in college. Scores obtained from the test can be used for placement, financial aid, and scholarships.
The blog highlights the exam pattern, eligibility and validity of the SAT exam. It also underscores the format, types of questions and preparation tips.
Why the SAT?
The SAT Exam is conducted by the college board for students who are aiming to study in foreign universities. The exam paves the way for students to pursue bachelor’s courses like aerospace engineering, graphic designing, construction engineering, and chemical & bioengineering.
The countries accepting it are the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.
SAT Exam Syllabus and Pattern
The SAT exam consists of 98 questions in the form of MCQ. The SAT syllabus comprises evidence-based reading, writing, and mathematics. The table below highlights the pattern of the SAT exam.
| Key Features | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | College Board |
| Duration | 134 minutes |
| Total number of Questions | 98 |
| Scoring | 1600 |
| Sections | 2 (Reading & Writing, Mathematics) |
| Mode | Online |
| Negative Marking | No |
SAT Exam Format
The SAT exam syllabus is divided into 2 significant sections: reading & writing, and mathematics. The first is evidence-based reading and writing, followed by the mathematics section. The exam is 134 minutes long and includes 98 questions. The total mark or maximum score on the SAT exam is 1600.
| Sections | Time Limit/Duration | Questions | Scoring |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evidence-based Reading & Writing | 64 minutes | 54 | 800 |
| Mathematics | 70 minutes | 44 | 800 |
| Total | 134 minutes | 98 | 1600 |
Evidence-based Reading & Writing
In this section, students have 64 minutes to answer the given questions that measure their reading and writing skills. The section includes expressing ideas, structuring them, and crafting them.
- Craft & Structure: Measures the comprehension, vocabulary, synthesis, analysis, & knowledge needed to understand & use high-utility words and phrases in context.
- Information & Ideas: This section measures comprehension, analysis, and reasoning skills. It also analyses the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, and integrate information and ideas from the text and informational graphics.
- Standard English Conventions: Measures the ability to edit text to conform to core conventions of Standard English sentence structure, usage & punctuation.
- Expression of Ideas: Measures the ability to revise texts to improve the effectiveness of written expression & to meet specific rhetorical goals.
This section includes craft and structure, information and ideas, and expression of ideas. The table listed below highlights the syllabus, number of questions, etc.
| Types of Questions | Number of questions | Syllabus |
|---|---|---|
| Craft & Structure | 13-15 | Comprehension, Vocabulary, Synthesis, Analysis & Understanding high-utility words. |
| Information & Ideas | 12-14 | Comprehension, Analysis, & Reasoning |
| Standard English Conventions | 11-15 | Edit, Punctuation |
| Expression of Ideas | 8-12 | Understanding rhetorical goals |
Mathematics
The mathematics section is the last section of the test that measures the analytical & problem-solving skills of the students. The section is divided into 2 modules.
- Algebra: Questions from linear equations in 1-2 variables, linear inequalities, etc.
- Advanced Mathematics: Questions on non-linear equations in 1 variable, systems of equations in 2 variables, non-linear functions, equivalent expressions, etc.
- Problem-Solving & Data Analysis: Questions on ratio, rates, percentages, probability & conditional probability, etc.
- Geometry & Trigonometry: Areas & volumes, lines, angles & triangles, circles, etc.
The table highlights the mathematics syllabus of the SAT exam, including algebra, advanced mathematics, problem-solving & data analysis, geometry & trigonometry.
| Types of Questions | Number of Questions | Syllabus |
|---|---|---|
| Algebra | 13-15 | 1-2 Variables, linear inequalities |
| Advanced Maths | 13-15 | Non-linear equations in 1 variable, non-linear functions, equivalent expressions |
| Problem-Solving & Data Analysis | 5-7 | Ratio, rates, percentages, probability & conditional probability |
| Geometry & Trigonometry | 5-7 | Areas & volumes, lines, angles & triangles, circles |
SAT Exam Eligibility
The only requirement for the exam is a class 10th & 12th certificate. There is no age limit for the SAT exam.
SAT Exam Score Chart & Percentile
Students can better understand the score & percentile marks through the table given below:
SAT Exam Validity
The SAT scores remain valid forever and don’t have expiration dates.
SAT Exam 2024: Fess & How to Register
The fee for the SAT Digital & Test Centre is INR 10,102. The steps to register for the exam are listed below:
- Log in to the College Board’s Website.
- Click on the “Sign In” option.
- Fill out your personal details.
- After all the details are filled in, students can pick up their test dates & centre of the examination.
- The nearest SAT exam centre can be found depending on the choices of the city.
- The last and most important part of the registration is fee submission. Students must submit their fees to secure their examination centre & date.
Important Dates & Deadlines of SAT Exam
Registration for the SAT Exam begins in August 2024 for the session 2024-25. All deadlines expire at 11:59 p.m. ET, U.S.
| SAT Exam Dates 2024 | Deadlines for Registration |
|---|---|
| 5th October, 2024 | 20th September 2024 |
| 2nd November 2024 | 18th October 2024 |
| 7th December, 2024 | 22nd November 2024 |
| 8th March 2025 | 21st February 2025 |
| 3rd May 2025 | 18th April 2025 |
| 7th June 2025 | 22nd May 2025 |
SAT Exam Practice Materials
The College Board offers plenty of sample questions and practice tests to help you get used to the SAT format and question types. The SAT Exam Practice Material allows students to improve their scores & increase their chances of admission.
Preparing for the SAT Exam
Exceeding on the SAT requires a well-organised study plan with various strategies. Hence, one should start early and use the right resources to enhance performance significantly. Here are some effective methods to help you prepare and ace your SAT exam.
- Start Early: Begin your studies several months before the test date to ensure you have enough time to cover all the material and avoid last-minute cramming.
- Identify Strengths and Weaknesses: Take a diagnostic test to determine your strong and weak areas, allowing you to focus your study efforts where they are most needed.
- Targeted Practice: Concentrate on improving your weak areas. Practise all preparation books, online courses, or tutors to address specific challenges.
- Build Vocabulary: Improve your vocabulary for the Reading and Writing sections by reading challenging texts, using flashcards, and incorporating new words into your daily language.
- Sharpen Writing Skills: Practice writing essays in the SAT format. Also, develop clear thesis statements, use strong evidence, and keep your writing concise. Take regular feedback from your mentors.
The SAT is a unique exam, quite different from any high school test. Succeeding on the SAT often comes down to truly understanding the test and sticking to a well-planned preparation strategy, which takes time and expert guidance. To supercharge your preparation, we recommend taking a consultation call with AdmitX.
FAQs
How can I decide whether to take the SAT or the ACT?
Think about your strengths and which subjects you enjoy the most. Also, check what the colleges you’re interested in require. Also, take mock tests for both, as they can help you determine which test suits you better.
How can I sign up for the SAT exam?
You can register online on the College Board website. You must make an account, pick your test date and place, and pay the fee. If you are eligible, you can get a fee waiver. Sign up early to get the date and place you want.
What do I need to bring to the SAT centre?
Bring a photo ID, your admission ticket, No. 2 pencils, and an approved calculator on test day. To avoid problems during the test, leave your phone and other banned items at home or in your car.
What is the SAT exam used for?
SAT exams are used to test the student’s aptitude for undergraduate admission.
Can the SAT exam be given online?
Yes, the SAT Exam is also available online to provide admission to international students.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
