Detailed Courses

SAT

(Scholastic Assessment Test)

What is SAT

The SAT is a standardized test administered by the College Board in a multiple-choice question format. It is taken by students aiming to pursue undergraduate courses, especially for studying in the US or Canada. The SATs are designed to assess the written, verbal, and mathematical skills of the candidates. Initially, the SAT exam was conducted in a pencil-paper format, but last year, the College Board replaced this format with a new version known as the SAT Digital Exam, which is now being conducted extensively across Indian states.

Reasons for Taking SAT

With over 2.2 million students in 175 countries and territories, the SAT has become a widely recognized and accepted standardized admission test. Here are some key reasons why students choose to take the SAT:

Global Acceptance

SAT scores are accepted by universities in 85 countries for admissions, making it a globally recognized test. In fact, more than 4,000 colleges in the USA accept SAT scores as part of their admission process.

Regular Availability

The SAT is conducted 5 times a year in India, providing students with multiple opportunities to take the test and improve their scores.

Comprehensive Evaluation

The SAT is designed to assess both verbal and mathematical abilities of the candidates, providing universities with a holistic view of the students’ academic capabilities.

Pathway to Higher Education

The SAT serves as a benchmark for high school students aspiring to pursue undergraduate studies in colleges and universities, especially in the United States. It helps universities compare students’ abilities and offer admission to eligible candidates based on their SAT scores.

SAT Eligibility

The SAT exam does not have specific eligibility requirements beyond holding a class 10 or class 12 pass certificate from a recognized board. However, the majority of SAT test-takers are typically in the age group of 17 to 19 years old, aiming to pursue undergraduate studies in universities, particularly in the USA.

SAT Requirements

Age Group

Most SAT aspirants fall within the age range of 17 to 19 years old, although there are no strict age restrictions for taking the exam.

No Specific Criteria

The College Board, which administers the SAT, has not specified any particular requirements to attempt the exam.

Global Acceptance

SAT scores are widely accepted for admission into graduate degree programs not only in the USA but also in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia.

Academic Qualification

SAT aspirants must hold a class 10 or class 12 certification from a recognized board.

While there are no age restrictions, candidates younger than 13 years old may be exempt from certain rules, and those over the age of 21 may need to provide valid government-issued identification.

SAT Syllabus

The exam consists of three main sections: Reading, Writing and Language, and Mathematics. Each section evaluates different skills and knowledge areas, providing a comprehensive assessment of students’ academic abilities

Reading Test

The reading test consists of passages covering various topics, including:
  • One or two passages on a global interest topic (e.g., famous speeches/documents)
  • One text from fiction literature or a related course One text from social science disciplines (e.g., economics, physics, history)
  • One topic from biology, earth science, chemistry, or physics
In the Reading test, candidates are assessed on:
  • Evidence-based questions: Selecting correct answers based on the passage or section
  • Determining the meaning of words in context
  • Analyzing concepts and answering questions related to history and social sciences

Writing and Language Test

In the Writing and Language test, candidates encounter:
  • Four different texts, each followed by 11 multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
  • Passages of 400 to 450 words, where candidates identify and correct grammar and punctuation errors
  • Questions covering various subjects such as history, science, and social studies, sometimes accompanied by graphs and graphics
The Writing and Language test aims to evaluate:
  • Clarity and coherence of the writer’s ideas
  • Correct usage of grammar and punctuation

Mathematics Test

The Mathematics test includes:
    Solving 19 algebra questions using relevant formulas
  • Addressing 17 questions involving data analysis and problem-solving
  • Answering 16 questions on advanced mathematics topics utilizing various formulas and expressions
  • Questions on geometry and trigonometry are also part of this section

SAT Exam Pattern

Test Section Number of Questions Task Type Time Limit
Reading 52 Multiple choice questions (MCQs) 65 minutes (1 hour and 5 minutes)
Writing and Language 35 Multiple choice questions (MCQs) 35 minutes
Math 80 Multiple choice and written answers 80 minutes (1 hour and 20 minutes)
Total 154 N/A 180 minutes (3 hours)

SAT Score

The SAT score ranges from 400 to 1600, with the Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) sections combined to calculate the final score. Each section is scored on a scale of 200 to 800 in 10-point increments. Achieving a score of 1200 or above is generally considered a good score on the SAT.

SAT Validity

SAT scores remain valid for a period of 5 years from the date of the test. This means that applicants can utilize their SAT scores for college admissions or other purposes within this timeframe. Additionally, there are no restrictions on the number of times applicants can take the SAT examination. They are allowed to retake the test as many times as needed to achieve their desired score or to improve their performance. This flexibility enables students to strive for their best possible outcome and enhance their chances of gaining admission to their preferred colleges or universities.

SAT Registration

Follow these simple steps to register for the SAT exam:
  • Go to the official SAT website.
  • Register by creating your login account using a username and password.
  • Complete all the necessary information fields.
  • Schedule your SAT exam by selecting a suitable date and time.
  • Review all the details provided to ensure accuracy.
  • Make payment for the SAT registration fees.
  • Click on the "Register/Apply" button to confirm your registration.
  • Receive a confirmation message on your registered mobile number.

SAT Test Fees

The SAT exam fee in India is $60 (INR 4970), and there is an additional regional fee of $43 (INR 3562). Therefore, the total exam fee for Indian candidates amounts to $103 (INR 8532). Please note that these costs are subject to change, so it is advisable to verify the current fee when applying for the SAT exam.

SAT Cancellation & Rescheduling Fees

Regarding SAT cancellation and rescheduling fees, it’s important to note the following:
  • Cancelling a SAT Registration incurs a significant cost, and students are advised to opt for a date change instead of cancelling the exam entirely. However, SAT registration fees cannot be refunded later than five days before test day, and candidates receive only a $10 refund.
  • Candidates seeking to change their SAT Test Centre or Test Date must pay an extra $30 for such services.
SAT Rescheduling Reasons SAT Rescheduling Fees
Date/Test Centre Change Fee before regular change deadline $25
Date/Test Centre Change Fee after regular change deadline $35
Late Registration Fee $30
Register by Phone $15
Waitlist Fee $53