What is SAT?

SAT stands for Scholastic Assessment Test. It’s an entrance test used by many colleges and universities. It lasts 3 hours. There are 2 sections: 1) Math and 2) Reading & writing tests. It costs $55 and the highest score is 1600 (800+800). The average score is 1060. The exam is multiple choice format. It’s used to measure the readiness of students for college.

Most students take SAT and/or ACT in the Spring of their Junior Year. You can re-take the exam, so it’s important to take them earlier so you can choose a higher score to submit to college. SAT is offered nationally every Summer = June, August, Winter = October, November, December, Spring = March, May.

SAT registration is via College Board. The register deadline is here and it is approximately 5 weeks before each test.

Besides the SAT, you should take the PSATs when they are offered at your high school. The status as a “National Merit semifinalist” or “National Merit Finalist” will be determined by your PSAT score, not your SAT score!

There are a few items schools look at:

• SAT Scores
• High School’s GPA
• Classes you took in High School
• EC (Extracurricular) activities
• Letters of Recommendations
• Admission Interviews
• Personal Essays