Whether you’re planning to immigrate or study abroad, giving an English proficiency test and qualifying the same is mandatory. One such exam is Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT). This post covers everything you need to know about SAT- eligibility, countries, registration process, slot booking, fees, preparation tips, exam pattern, and even course suggestions.

What Is Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)?

It’s a standardized test managed by the College Board. Students who want to attend undergraduate schools in countries like the US, Canada, UK, Australia, etc., can take this test. SAT assesses the written, verbal, and mathematical skills of the candidates.

Purpose of taking SAT

Students aiming for undergraduate programs, especially in the US and Canada, need to take the SAT exam. If you want to showcase your expertise in a specific subject, you can take SAT subject tests..

Sections Of SAT

  1. Reading: In this section, there are 10 to 11 questions for each passage. It has five passages of different lengths. It tests your ability to understand written text, figure out word meanings in different situations, and grasp implied meanings.
  1. Writing: In this section there are four passages, each with 10-11 questions. You need to identify errors, rephrase sentences, and provide alternative text for highlighted parts. This section evaluates your vocabulary and grammar skills.
  1. Mathematics: This section has two parts: a 25-minute part without calculators and a 55-minute part with calculators. It contains 58 questions covering various topics like statistics, algebra, geometry, arithmetic, probability, and data interpretation.

Who Can Take The SAT?

To take the SAT exams, all you need is a Class 10th or 12th pass certificate—there’s no age limit or major eligibility criteria. It’s a straightforward opportunity to showcase your academic skills for college admissions.

Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) – Eligibility

  1. Qualification: The College Board permits all students interested in UG courses to take the exam. Most test-takers are aged 17 to 19, and high school completion is usually required for UG enrollment.
  1. Age: 
    1. If you’re 13 or older, you can create a free account on College Board and register online.
    2. If you’re 12 years or younger, you can only register through mail or phone, and you don’t need to pay the phone registration fee.
    3. If you’re in the eighth grade or lower, you don’t need to include a photo during registration, but you will need a valid photo ID at the exam center.
  1. Number of Attempts: There are no restrictions on how many times you can take the SAT, according to the College Board. In India, the SAT is offered seven times a year, typically in March, May, June, August, October, and December.
  1. Scores:The SAT is scored out of 2400, with subject-wise scores ranging from 200 to 800. You can expect your scores to be available approximately three weeks after taking the exam.

Documents Requirement

  1. Valid Passport or Aadhar Card:
    • A valid passport with your photo and original name.
    • In India, you can also carry your original Aadhar card as ID proof.
  2. Recent Photograph:
    • A recent photograph that matches the one on your SAT admission ticket.
  3. SAT Admission Ticket:
    • The SAT admission ticket is a must-have for exam entry.
  4. School ID (if applicable):
    • You may also carry a school ID if it is valid until the month of December of your current school year.

How To Register For SAT?

Step Wise Procedure

  1. Visit the official website and go to ‘sign up’ to create an account by filling in your details.
  1. After successfully creating, give the personal details.
  1. Create your student profile by providing the details of academic , extracurricular activities.
  1. Select Test Date and Test Center
  1. Upload your picture.
  1. Pay the SAT test fee.

Other Methods to Register

Via Mail: 

  1. Obtain ‘The Student Registration Guide for the SAT and SAT Subject Tests,’ which is available at schools.
  2. Inside the guide, you’ll find a registration form and a return envelope.
  3. Fill out the registration form and prepare a demand draft for the required fees.
  4. Send the completed form and the demand draft using the provided return envelope.
  5. The local representative for the SAT in India. Mailed forms will be directed to their regional office.

Registration Fees and Mode of Payment

FeesINR 4948.53
Mode of PaymentDebit Card, Credit Card, Paypal

SAT Exam Preparation

Preparation Tips For SAT 2024

  1. Focus on each section: Work on writing, reading, and math skills individually.
  2. Seek tips for each section: Look for writing, reading, and math preparation tips to excel in each area.
  3. Utilize the right books: Find the best SAT preparation books to cover the entire syllabus.
  4. Practice with sample papers: Solve sample papers and practice tests to get a sense of the exam and assess your progress.

Section Wise Preparation Tips

  1. Reading and Writing
    1. Read the passage carefully to find answers.
    2. Use reasoning to support your conclusions from the passage.
    3. Use your time wisely by answering as many questions as possible from one passage before moving on to the next.
    4. Be prepared for two types of passages: one with errors to identify and one requiring you to understand the passage’s theme.
    5. Manage your time efficiently; you may not have time to read the entire passage thoroughly.
    6. Carefully read each question to understand what it requires for an answer.
    7. Remember that each question assesses your grammar, word choice, and sentence structure.

  1. Math Section
    1. Focus on speed and accuracy: Work on solving math problems efficiently and accurately.
    2. Learn math concepts: Understand math concepts, rules, and relationships thoroughly.
    3. Familiarize with formulas: Be well-versed in mathematical formulas, especially for topics like graphs and linear equations.
    4. No negative marking: Remember that there’s no penalty for wrong answers, so attempt as many questions as possible.

Digital Preparation Timeline

This is just to give an idea to students as to how to go about registering on Bluebook, then attempting a mock and when to download their admission ticket for the SAT Digital Exam.

Affordable Resources

  1. SAT Complete Course Video
  2. Sample Test Paper
  3. Books for Preparation

For more information on Exam Preparation Resourcesfill the form, and our student advisor will reach you soon.

Exam Pattern for SAT

SectionsSub-SectionsNumber of QuestionsDurationScore
Evidence-based Reading and WritingReading5265 minutes200-800
Writing4435 minutes
MathematicsNo Calculator30 MCQs & 8 GRID-INS80 minutes200-800
With Calculator15 MCQs & 5 GRID-INS
Total1543 hours400-1600

Section wise Exam Pattern

Section and no. of questionsTime Duration (mins)Score Range
Reading + Writing(54 MCQ-Questions)64 minutesSAT Reading & Writing score range: 200 to 800
Math(33 MCQs + 11 SPR-type Questions)70 minutes SAT Math score range: 200 to 800

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the calculator during the Math section  ?

It includes both a calculator and a non-calculator part. Students can use calculators to perform more complex calculations in the calculator part. Without a calculator, the non-calculator part examines their problem-solving abilities.

Is the SAT exam easy for Indian students?

This test is as not difficult as it might seem to the first-time test takers.

Is negative marking there in the SAT 2023 pattern?

In the latest SAT digital exam pattern for 2023, there is no penalty for wrong answers or guessing. So, feel free to attempt as many questions as possible.

Conclusion

Now that you know the test pattern, exam details, and some useful resources for preparation, you can start preparing immediately. If you need any further assistance or need GRE classes, you may reach out to us.