Learn all about the SAT
What is the SAT and how is it structured?
The SAT is a standardized, multiple-choice test used by most U.S. colleges and universities for admissions and placement decisions. SAT scores can also be used to determine scholarship eligibility. The test is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and given nationally seven times a year.
The SAT is a seven-section, three-hour exam. Three of the sections are Verbal, three are Math, and one is experimental. The experimental section, used by ETS strictly for its own research, can be either Verbal or Math and is not counted toward your final score. The seven sections appear in a slightly different order every time the SAT is administered.
How is the SAT scored?
You will receive two scores on the SAT, one for Math and one for Verbal. Each subject is scored on a scale of 200 to 800. The national average is approximately 500 in each subject (1000 combined). However, most competitive colleges look for significantly higher scores. How important are my SAT scores?
The weight placed on SAT scores varies from school to school. Other important factors that schools consider in their admissions decisions are your high school GPA and academic transcript, letters of recommendation, interviews, and personal essays. In addition, virtually all U.S. colleges and universities will accept ACT scores in lieu of SAT scores.
For more specific information on the importance of SAT scores at the schools to which you are applying, contact the admissions offices at those schools.
Can I cancel my scores?
Yes. If you finish the test and think you may want to cancel your scores, you should ask the test supervisor for a "Request to Cancel Test Scores" form. You may submit the completed form immediately at the testing center, or you can think about it for a day or two before mailing it to ETS. However, ETS must receive your request form no later than the Wednesday after the test.
When should I take the SAT?
The SAT is offered every year in October, November, December, January, March or April, May, and June. Students have traditionally taken the SAT in the spring of their junior year and, if necessary, again in the fall of their senior year. However, more and more students are choosing to take their first SAT earlier, such as during the fall of their junior year. This gives them more flexibility in taking SAT IIs, the ACT, or the SAT one or more times.
How do I register for the SAT and what is the fee?
Visit collegeboard.com and sign up to register and pay the fees.
The Princeton Review
(Starting this week, Education Plus will carry detailed information on various examinations and tests to be taken for pursuing higher education abroad. The Princeton Review, education consultants, will provide answers to frequently asked questions about these tests.)
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