SAT
Standardized Admissions Test – SAT
An Overview of the Exam
SAT Exam was introduced in the year 1926. SAT was originally known as Scholastic Aptitude Test. The name was then changed to Scholastic Assessment Test and then SAT I: Reasoning Test. Later it was changed to SAT Reasoning Test. Currently this test has been known all over the world by the name of the SAT. It is taken by high school juniors and seniors.
The SAT Exam measures the literacy and writing skills that are required for admissions in colleges abroad. It measures how well the student analyses and solves the problem. It measures the literacy and writing skills that are needed for academic success in college.
SAT is a paper-based test administered at schools and sites around the country on select dates throughout the year. Students are allowed to take the test as many times as they want; most universities will only look at the highest score or the super-score (a combination of the highest sections).
SAT Test Pattern 2017
The SAT Test is of two types.
- SAT Reasoning Test
- SAT Subjects Test
The test format for both the SAT Test Pattern is different. Both intend to evaluate candidate’s knowledge. The SAT Reasoning test assesses a candidate’s reading, writing and mathematical ability. The SAT Subjects Test assesses a candidate’s expertise in specific subjects. The College Board is the conducting authority of SAT. In 2017, the change in the SAT exam is in the scoring of the exam. The exam will now be scored on a total of 1600 while the Evidence-Based Reading/Writing and Math sections will each be scored on a 200 to 800 point scale. There is no negative marking in the SAT Exam.
According to the SAT 2017 test pattern, the total duration of the test is 3 hours. However, candidates will be given another 50 minutes for the Essay, which is optional. The new SAT test pattern 2017 has, essentially, five sections
- Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
- Reading Test
- Writing and Language Test
- Math
- The Essay (Optional)
As per the SAT 2017 test pattern, a total of 154 questions are asked in the SAT 2017 including 1 essay question. The questions in the SAT Exam are objective type.
The Exam Pattern
The syllabus of SAT has been resigned in 2017. According to the new exam pattern, the time duration of the exam is 3 hours however an additional 50 minutes is given to the candidates for the Essay writing which is optional.
Structure of the Exam
EVIDENCE-BASED READING & WRITING
Content of Reading & Writing
- Relevant words in context (Reading, Writing)
- Command of evidence (Reading, Writing)
- Expression of ideas (Writing)
- Standard English conventions (Writing)
Reading Section (65 minutes)
According to SAT test pattern 2017, the reading section includes reading passages and sentence completions. It is divided into three sub-sections. The questions asked in this section are based on either short passage reading or long passage reading. The questions are based on multiple choice questions. These questions evaluate a student’s understanding ability.
Number of Questions: – 52
Type of Question:- Standard Multiple-choice
Writing Section (35minutes)
This section includes a short essay and multiple-choice questions on identifying errors and improving grammar and usage.
Number of Questions:- 44
Type of Question:- Standard multiple-choice
Timings
Total Time (100 Minutes)
Reading Section (One 65 minute section)
Writing Section (One 35 minute section)
Mathematics Section
This section includes questions on arithmetic operations, algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability.
Number of Questions:- 45
Type of Questions:- Standard Multiple-choice
Timings
80 minutes
One 25-minute section (no calculator)
One 55-minute section (calculator allowed)
Essay
(OPTIONAL)
1 evidence-based essay
Content
Analyzing a source
Timing
50 minutes
One 50-minute essay
Facts about SAT Exam
The test centres for SAT can be found in different cities in India, and it is a good idea to book early to avoid the last-minute rush (especially in the peak application season) and head to the preferred test location.
It is also advisable to keep some buffer time (in months) in case you decide to retake the test afterward.
Internationally, the test is offered mainly every month from Oct-Jan.
College Board sets the International SAT dates and deadlines every year.
The SAT Exam Fees
The basic fee for the exam is $52, but it varies based on the country of the applicant. For Indian applicants, the fee for SAT comes out to be approximately $106 (with written essay), or approximately $94 (without essay).
In Indian Rupees, the SAT exam fee is around 6200-7000 INR.
Apart from the general SAT, one can sit for subject SATs which can be useful under certain circumstances. The fee for subject SATs comes out to be approximately $111, though the importance of subject tests is gradually diminishing in general.