The SAT is one of two standardized tests used by colleges as part of their admission requirements. The SAT measures verbal skills, writing skills and math reasoning skills. It is used for admission and scholarship eligibility at most colleges and is required by the NCAA for those athletes who hope to compete in sports once they are accepted into college.
The SAT Subject Tests, (formerly SAT II), consists of more than 20 subject areas and are achievement tests designed to measure subject area knowledge. Many colleges use the Subject Tests for admission, for course placement, or to advise students about course selection but only some selective colleges and universities require them. These can be taken the same dates as the SATs, except in March when there are no SAT Subject Tests administered. For more information on SAT Subject Tests, go to our page on SAT Subject tests http://www.chytenaz.com/satsubject/index.php.
When does my student take the test? The SAT is administered every October, November, December, February, March, May, and June of each school year. Most students take the SAT during the second semester of their junior year.
The best rule of thumb with the SAT is: “the earlier and more often the better”. Here is a link to the test dates for the current academic year. http://sat.collegeboard.org/register/sat-us-dates.
When and how do I register my student? A registration packet should be available at your high school, but the best way is to register online at www.collegeboard.com. Keep in mind the registration deadlines for each test, as they are generally six weeks in advance. Try to register at least eight weeks in advance. The sooner your student registers, the easier it is to get your ideal location. Each test date has its own registration deadlines and locations available.
What’s the test’s structure? The SAT is 3 hour and 45 minute test with ten sections consisting of critical reading, math, writing, including an experimental section which is masked to look like a regular section. Extended time and other accommodations are available for students who qualify. For more information, see your guidance counselor.
How is it scored? Scores on each section range from 200-800 points. The scores from each section are combined, and the highest possible combined score is 2400.
How many times can my student take the test? A student can take the test multiple times without penalties. But we recommend no more than three. I’d delete this, Ellie.
What should my student bring to the test? Your student should bring an approved calculator, a snack, water, pencils and her ticket and a picture ID. Do not bring a phone.
Which Calculators are approved? Calculators permitted while testing are: Graphing calculators,
Scientific calculators, Four-function calculators (not recommended). The following devices are Not permitted as a calculator: laptop or a portable/handheld computer, pocket organizers, cell phone calculators, calculators with QWERTY keypads (e.g., TI-92 Plus, Voyage 200), calculators that use electrical outlets, make noise or have a paper tape. To get better information, read the Calculator Policy at http://sat.collegeboard.org/register/calculator-policy.
What are the costs of the test? The test costs change year by year; in 2013 it is $51. For updated information on fees, please visit http://sat.collegeboard.org/register/us-services-fees.
Can I change a date once registered? Yes, life situations may keep your student from being able to meet a previous commitment and, thus, you may need to change a date. The College Board will charge a change date fee that at the present time is $27.50.
Can I get a copy of the test? Yes, you may if you order the Question and Answer Service (QAS) for $18, within five months of the date in which the test was taken but ONLY the following test dates: October, January and May. For more information about this service, please go to: http://sat.collegeboard.org/scores/verify-sat-scores.
What is the registration schedule for the current academic year, and when should I start preparing?
Here is a brief summary to the test dates for the current academic year and our suggested start date to prepare based on an average 10 week preparation time. Call us at least 10 to 12 weeks ahead of the test date to get a diagnosis of what is needed for your particular case and to be able to get you into our schedule.
Start with our ACT vs. SAT comparison test to help you decide if the SAT or ACT is a better test for your student. To learn more about this test visit our page ACT vs SAT comparison page.
For more information on our ACT or PSAT/SAT test prep classes, please visit our current testing schedule page.
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