­­About the SAT

The SAT exam is a standardized test that helps the university examine where you stand in a more objective manner. The test is a good criterion for universities and examiners to figure out how well prepared you are for college as well as get a better idea about the skills you have developed in school.  The test is administered by the College Board.

Content covered on the SAT

Structure of the SAT

The SAT has four tests, including the optional SAT Essay. The three tests that everyone will take are the Reading Test, the Writing and Language Test, and the Math Test. The tests break down like this:

As part of scoring, every test goes through an equating process. Equating is a statistical process we use to ensure that scores mean the same thing no matter which version of the test you take or when you take it. In order to assist with future testing, College Board may conduct research studies in connection with the testing of a subset of students. Also, the test occasionally includes test questions for research purposes. These questions may appear in any of the test sections, and testing time will be extended by 20 minutes so students have time to answer them. These questions will not be included in computing your scores. Students must complete all sections of the test. If you leave before dismissal, your scores will be canceled.

Understanding SAT scoring

All multiple-choice questions are scored the same way: one point for each correct answer and zero points for incorrect answers. No points are subtracted for incorrect answers or answers left blank. Hard questions count the same as easier questions. You will not lose any points for guessing, so try to answer every question. The table below shows you all the scores you’ll receive on the SAT.

SAT Score Reported Details Score Range Total Score Sum of the two section scores 400–1600

Section Scores (2)

• Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
• Math 200–800

Test Scores (3)

• Reading
• Writing and Language
• Math 10–40

Essay Scores (3) (if the SAT Essay is taken)

• Reading
• Analysis
• Writing 2–8

Cross-Test Scores (2)

• Analysis in History/Social Studies
• Analysis in Science Based on select questions in the Reading Test, Writing and Language Test, and Math Test. These scores show how well you use your skills to analyze texts and solve problems in these subject areas. 10–40

Subscores (7)

• Reading and Writing and Language: Command of Evidence and Words in Context
• Writing and Language: Expression of Ideas and Standard English Conventions
• Math: Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, and Passport to Advanced Math 1-15

Information adapted from https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat.