SAT is a standardized test administered by the College Board and is required to be taken by students seeking admission to undergraduate schools. The full form of SAT is the Scholastic Assessment Test, which was earlier known as the Scholastic Aptitude Test. SAT exam has been developed to evaluate the written, verbal and mathematical skills of the candidates. Applicants aspire to pursue undergraduate courses, particularly in the US and Canada, are required to take the SAT exam. If the student is looking to get admission to a particular course, s/he can take the SAT subject tests to show his knowledge and understanding of that particular subject. Subject tests are offered in areas like Literature, History, Mathematics, Sciences and Foreign Languages. READ: When Should You Start Studying for SAT?
SAT Exam Latest Update
CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) ALERT: Due to COVID-19, test centers are not operating at their full capacity. Candidates can register and book their exam slots for this academic year for taking the SAT and SAT Subject Tests. They can check the availability of the test center near them during registration. Read the complete update here
Many universities abroad are going test-optional as SAT is being canceled. What it means for students and whether this arrangement is here to stay? Read on to have all your questions answered, here.
Recently, the College Board has introduced SAT in India. students looking to pursue higher education in premier universities in India would be pleased to know that in 2018, the College Board has brought into effect an India Higher Education Alliance with various academic establishments. All the university affiliates in the Alliance are accepting SAT scores for admission from Indian students and around the world. Hence, students who want to study abroad and also apply to universities can appear for the SAT test. For a list of Indian academic universities accepting SAT scores, click here.
SAT 2021 Exam Highlights
|
Exam Name |
SAT |
|
SAT full form |
Scholastic Assessment Test |
|
Official Website |
|
|
Most popular for |
Undergraduate courses in the US and Canada |
|
Also accepted by |
The United Kingdom and Australia |
|
Conducted by |
The College Board |
|
Mode of Exam |
Written-based examination |
|
SAT Fee |
$101 without the essay and $117 with essay |
|
Score Range |
400-1600 points |
|
SAT Contact |
The College Board National Office 250 Vesey Street New York, NY 10281 Phone: 212-713-8000 |
Why do people take SAT?
Students looking to enroll in the undergraduate programs in the US appear for their SAT. Most of the colleges in the US require SAT for admission to the undergraduate courses. Apart from this, many schools also offer SAT scholarship money to students based on their SAT results.
Types of SAT
Conducted by the College Board, SAT 1 or more commonly referred to as the Scholastic Assessment Test is required to be taken by students seeking admission to undergraduate schools. SAT 1 is a general test that has been developed to evaluate the written, verbal and mathematical skills of the candidates. SAT 2, on the other hand, is a more subject-focused test. Students looking to get admission to a particular course are required to take the SAT Subject Test to demonstrate their knowledge of that particular subject. So, whenever, you are in a dilemma while thinking about SAT1 vs SAT2, then just see which SAT 2021 exam is apt for you.
SAT vs ACT
Most of the colleges in the US accept either SAT or American College Testing (ACT) for admissions to their undergraduate programs, so, students looking to get into these courses are required to take these tests. However, it is important to know which exam you should take. Firstly, check the requirement of the college you are applying to whether they require the SAT or ACT, then decide on which exam you should go for. If you are lucky enough to have both the options acceptable from your choice of college, you may find this article helpful: SAT vs ACT: Which Test is Easier?
SAT 2021 Eligibility
The College Board, which is the conducting body of the SAT has not laid down any specific SAT eligibility criteria for students wanting to appear for the SAT exam. Read: SAT Tips & Strategies
1. Age Limit to Appear for SAT
Candidates should be informed that there is no minimum or maximum age criteria fixed for students wanting to appear for the exam. General studies have shown that students belonging to the age group of 17 to 19 are among the highest to appear for SAT.
2. How many times can you take the SAT exams?
As in the case of ACT, there are no restrictions set by the College Board, students can take the SAT exam as many times as they want. SAT is administered 5 times a year in India. SAT is administered 5 times a year in India. The test is usually conducted in the months of March, May, August, October, and December.
3. What is the educational eligibility criteria for SAT?
There are no specific eligibility criteria set by the College Board, the body that conducts and manages the SAT exam. However, it can be taken by students who are in high school. Students who want to apply for undergraduate studies abroad are required to have successfully completed their high school education to move to the next level of their learning.
What skills does the SAT Exam test?
SAT exam analyses the Mathematical, Critical Reading, and Writing skills of the candidates. According to the College Board, they test the skills which students have learned in their schools. They test the skills which are required for the academic success of the students in college.
The conducting body of SAT, the College Board has not set up any SAT eligibility for candidates wanting to appear for the exam. Originally referred to as the Scholastic Aptitude Test, then the Scholastic Assessment Test and now commonly called the SAT exam is conducted for undergraduate admission to colleges/universities abroad. The College Board which is the official SAT conducting agency have not laid down any specific eligibility criteria for SAT exam for students appearing for one of the most recognized entrance exams for undergraduate studies abroad.
Students who are planning to travel overseas to take admission to undergraduate studies are required to successfully qualify for the SAT exam. The College Board has not set up any SAT eligibility criteria as far as the age limit is concerned. There is no minimum or maximum age limit set by the conducting body for aspirants wanting to register for SAT exam. However, students are required to have successfully passed their high school to seek admission for undergraduate studies. Students belonging to the age group of 17-19 years have recorded the highest turnout for the SAT exams. Countries that majorly accept SAT scores and results are the United States of America (USA), Canada, the United Kingdom (UK), Singapore, the Netherlands, Australia, and New Zealand among others.
Also read: SAT Exam Syllabus
Key Points for SAT Eligibility 2021
- The College Board is the official conducting body of the SAT exam
- There is no minimum or maximum age set by the conducting body as SAT eligibility criteria
- SAT is widely accepted in countries like USA, UK, Australia, and Canada.
- Students appear for SAT for admission to undergraduate programmes in colleges/ universities abroad
- A maximum number of high school students between the ages 17-18 appear for the SAT exam
SAT Eligibility for Students with Disabilities
Students with disabilities, who inform the College Board – the governing body of SAT about their condition, beforehand are eligible to appear for SAT with added facilities to make their SAT exam experience worth it. However, all the extra convenience must be approved beforehand by the College Board's Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) unit. Once the facilities for the disabled students have been approved, this can be used for both SAT General and SAT Subject Test. Students are not required to make a new request for each SAT exam. Students should note that there is no eligibility criteria laid down for students wanting to appear for SAT.
Facilities for Disabled Students for SAT Exam include:
- The use of Braille and large-print exams for visually impaired candidates
- Provision for extra time for completion of the SAT exam
- The use of a computer for essays and
- A provision for extra breaks during the exam
Related reads:
SAT is a globally recognized standardized test taken by students seeking admission in undergraduate schools in popular international destinations like Australia, Canada, USA, and the UK. This exam evaluates the candidates on their written, verbal, and mathematical skills. Apart from the generic SAT Exam, if the students are seeking admission in a particular course, then they can take the SAT Subject Test to showcase their understanding of that particular area. Subject Tests can be taken in the areas of Mathematics, History, Sciences, Literature, and Foreign Languages. Students can attempt more than one subject exam as per their requirements or as specified by the university they are targeting.
SAT Test Dates and Deadlines for 2021
|
Test Date |
Test Available |
SAT Registration Deadline |
|
March 13, 2021 |
SAT Test |
February 12, 2021 |
|
May 8, 2021 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
April 8, 2021 |
|
June 5, 2021 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
May 6, 2021 |
2021-22 SAT Administration Dates (Anticipated)
|
Test Date |
Test Available |
|---|---|
|
August 28, 2021 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
|
October 2, 2021 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
|
November 6, 2021 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
|
December 4, 2021 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
|
March 12, 2022 |
SAT Test |
|
May 7, 2022 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
|
June 4, 2022 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
2022-23 SAT Administration Dates (Anticipated)
|
Test Date |
Test Available |
|---|---|
|
August 27, 2022 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
|
October 1, 2022 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
|
November 5, 2022 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
|
December 3, 2022 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
|
March 11, 2023 |
SAT Test |
|
May 6, 2023 |
SAT Test SAT Subject Test |
|
June 3, 2023 |
SAT Subject Test |
Related Article:
Administered by the College Board, SAT test is conducted at around 53 institutes spread across 30 cities of India. With such a huge coverage, there still exists lag in booking test centers as the test is conducted once a month. Since the number of applicants is increasing every year, the test requires its aspirants to apply almost a month in advance.
Though there is always a late deadline available for the application, it is always recommended to apply on time to avoid the haste. There are multiple ways to register for the test, such as online, through phone, and through the mail. For more information, check out the registration details on SAT exam.
CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) ALERT: Due to COVID-19, test centers are not operating at their full capacity. Candidates can register and book their exam slots for this academic year for taking the SAT and SAT Subject Tests. They can check the availability of the test center near them during registration. If a test center is not available near them, students can choose the option of 'let the College Board find a seat near me'. Test centers may close or reduce capacity on short notice including on test day. Please check your email and the test center's website the night before your test date and plan your travel accordingly.
Test centers may close or reschedule for a future date at the last minute. In case this happens, students will be notified that they should not report to their test center and they will receive a follow-up notification after the test day to confirm whether a future date is available or if they will receive a refund.
Test Centres Across India
Ahmedabad
- Ahmedabad International School, Judges Bungalow Road, Opposite Rajpath Row Houses, Bodakdev, Ahmedabad – 380 054
- Delhi Public School Bopal, Bopal Square, Near Bopal Railway Crossing, Ahmedabad – 380 058
Amritsar
- Spring Dale Senior School, Fatehgarh Churian Road, Amritsar – 143 001
Bangalore
- Bangalore International School, Gedalahalli, Hennur Bagalur Road, Kothanur Post, Bangalore – 560 077
- Bishop Cotton Boys' School, 15 Residency Road, Bangalore – 560 025
- Canadian International School, 4 & 20 Manchenahalli, Yelahanka, Bangalore – 560 064
- Ebenezer International School Bangalore, Singena Agrahara Road, Via Huskur Road / A.P.M.C. Yard, Huskur P.O, Electronic City, Bangalore – 560 099
- The International School Bangalore, NAFL Valley, Whitefield - Sarjapur Road, Near Dommasandra Circle, Bangalore – 562 125
Bhopal
- Billabong High International School & Kangaroo Kids, Beyond Bhadbhada, Neelbad, Bhopal – 462 044
Bhubaneswar
- Mother's Public School, Unit 1, Bapuji Nagar, Bhubaneshwar – 751 009
- SAI International School, Plot-5A, Chandrasekharpur, Infocity Road, Bhubaneswar – 751 024
Chandigarh
- Strawberry Fields High School, Sector 26, Chandigarh – 160 019
Chennai
- Asan Memorial Senior Secondary School, 1, Anderson Road, Cochin House, Chennai – 600 006
- CPS Global School
- Anna Nagar Campus: A 80, IIIrd Avenue, Anna Nagar Roundtana, Anna Nagar East, Chennai – 600 102
- Thirumazhisai Campus: Thiruvallur High Road, SH 50, Off Ponamallee Motel Highway, Thirumazhisai, Chennai – 600 124
Cochin
- Sacred Heart College, Thevara, Pandit Karuppan Rd, Thevara, Ernakulam, Kerala – 682 013
Delhi NCR
- Pathways School Noida, Sector 100 Noida – 201 301
Gujarat
- Navrachana International School, Vadodara, Vasna-Bhayali Road, Vadodara – 391 410
Gurgaon
- Pathways School Gurgaon, Off Gurugram Faridabad Road, Gurugram – 122 003
- Pathways World School Aravali, Off Gurugram Sohna Road, Gurugram – 122 102
- St. Michael's Senior Secondary School, Shivpuri, Sector 7, Gurugram – 122 001
- Heritage Xperiential Learning School, Sector 62, Gurgaon – 122 011
Guwahati
- Sanskriti – The Gurukul, Village Gugh, Ahomgaon, P.O. Garchuk, NH - 37, Opp ISBT, Guwahati – 781 035
Hyderabad
- Chirec Public School
- Kondapur Campus: 1-55/12, CHIREC Avenue, Kondapur, Kothaguda (PO), Hyderabad – 500 084
- Gachibowli Campus: Plot Nos. 277 to 282, Telecom Officers Colony, Bhaghyalakshmi Nagar, Phase – II, Serilingampally. Hyderabad – 500 018
- Jubilee Hills Campus: Plot No. 962, Road No.48, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad – 500 033
For all the students seeking admission to undergraduate or Bachelors's courses in the US or Canada, SAT is an important exam as most universities there require SAT scores to assess your profile. SAT exam evaluates your written, verbal and mathematical skills. Recently in 2016, Essential SAT Tips and Strategies
Types of SAT
SAT exam is of two types:
SAT – The SAT exam tests the knowledge of reading, writing, and math — subjects which are taught every day in high schools. It is a 3 hour 45 minutes long test. Most students start preparing for the SAT during their class 11 and take the exam during their class 12. SAT doesn't test logic or abstract reasoning; it tests the skills students learn at school, which are important and will stay with the student for a lifetime.
Subject Test – Subject Tests are hour-long, content-based tests that allow students to showcase achievement in specific subject areas where they excel. These tests are in the following areas: English, History, Mathematics, Science, and Foreign Languages. Some colleges might ask students to take subject tests or might not. Students should research properly to determine whether the colleges they are applying to require subject tests as part of the application.
SAT Eligibility
There are no particular eligibility criteria for SAT. You need to be an enrolled high school student, with the intent of applying to foreign undergraduate universities.
How to register for SAT online?
Step 1: Visit College Board's official website: www.collegeboard.org and create your account.
Step 2: After successfully creating your College Board account, give your personal details.
Step 3: Create your student profile.
- Give your high school details.
- Give your academic details.
- Details related to extracurricular activities.
- College level details: College type, college size, majors.
The College Board has laid down distinguished exam/ paper patterns for SAT Reasoning and SAT Subject Tests. Students wanting to pursue undergraduate studies in colleges/universities abroad are required to appear for the SAT exam to qualify for the same. Aspirants wanting to appear for their SAT Reasoning Test or their SAT Subject Test need to carefully keep in mind the latest SAT paper pattern to be able to score well in the examinations.
The conducting body of the SAT exam, the College Board has set distinct SAT 2020 exam patterns for both the SAT Reasoning Test and SAT Subject Test. Both the tests evaluate the candidate's knowledge and varied skill set. The SAT exam does not have any negative marking and while the SAT Reasoning Test is scored on a total of 1600 points the SAT Subject Test is scored on a total of 800 points.
SAT 2020 Exam Pattern
The exam pattern for the SAT exam includes two sets of exams. The first is the SAT Reasoning Test and the SAT Subject Test. The SAT Reasoning Test is the exam that is opted for students looking to pursue higher education in countries abroad. This is one of the most sought after competitive exams, the scores of which are vastly recognized in the universities/ colleges abroad. The second SAT test is the SAT Subject Test, which is opted by students who are looking to study a particular subject in great detail. Candidates wanting to appear for SAT can opt for either of the SAT exams. The SAT exam pattern/ syllabus is different for both the exams.
SAT Reasoning Test Exam Pattern
The SAT Reasoning Test is mostly objective in nature and for a total of 3hrs and 50mins including the optional essay section. The essay in SAT is optional in nature and if candidates decide against sitting for it, the entire SAT Test duration is of 3 hrs. Candidates would have to attempt a total of 155 questions including the essay. The following is the latest SAT Exam/Test Pattern for students looking to appear for their next SAT Reasoning Test for higher education to universities/ colleges abroad.
|
Subjects for SAT Reasoning Test |
Number of Questions |
Total Duration (mins) |
|---|---|---|
|
Reading |
52 |
65 |
|
Writing & Language |
44 |
35 |
|
Mathematics |
58 |
80 |
|
Essay (optional) |
01 |
50 |
|
Aggregate |
155 |
230 |
The College Board has laid down distinguished exam/ paper patterns for SAT Reasoning and SAT Subject Tests. Students wanting to pursue undergraduate studies in colleges/universities abroad are required to appear for the SAT exam to qualify for the same. Aspirants wanting to appear for their SAT Reasoning Test or their SAT Subject Test need to carefully keep in mind the latest SAT paper pattern to be able to score well in the examinations.
The conducting body of the SAT exam, the College Board has set distinct SAT 2020 exam patterns for both the SAT Reasoning Test and SAT Subject Test. Both the tests evaluate the candidate's knowledge and varied skill set. The SAT exam does not have any negative marking and while the SAT Reasoning Test is scored on a total of 1600 points the SAT Subject Test is scored on a total of 800 points.
SAT 2020 Exam Pattern
The exam pattern for the SAT exam includes two sets of exams. The first is the SAT Reasoning Test and the SAT Subject Test. The SAT Reasoning Test is the exam that is opted for students looking to pursue higher education in countries abroad. This is one of the most sought after competitive exams, the scores of which are vastly recognized in the universities/ colleges abroad. The second SAT test is the SAT Subject Test, which is opted by students who are looking to study a particular subject in great detail. Candidates wanting to appear for SAT can opt for either of the SAT exams. The SAT exam pattern/ syllabus is different for both the exams.
SAT Reasoning Test Exam Pattern
The SAT Reasoning Test is mostly objective in nature and for a total of 3hrs and 50mins including the optional essay section. The essay in SAT is optional in nature and if candidates decide against sitting for it, the entire SAT Test duration is of 3 hrs. Candidates would have to attempt a total of 155 questions including the essay. The following is the latest SAT Exam/Test Pattern for students looking to appear for their next SAT Reasoning Test for higher education to universities/ colleges abroad.
|
Subjects for SAT Reasoning Test |
Number of Questions |
Total Duration (mins) |
|---|---|---|
|
Reading |
52 |
65 |
|
Writing & Language |
44 |
35 |
|
Mathematics |
58 |
80 |
|
Essay (optional) |
01 |
50 |
|
Aggregate |
155 |
230 |
SAT exam syllabus includes course the students have already studied in their school over the years. So if you are good at studies in school, you shouldn't face any issues preparing for the SAT Syllabus. There are two types of SAT Exams: SAT General Test and SAT Subject Test.
-
SAT General Test
SAT General Test is more common between the two SAT tests and is generally used by the undergraduate colleges for admissions. The Scholastic Assessment Test assesses the written, verbal and mathematical skills of the candidates.
There are 20 SAT Subject Tests which are divided into 5 subject areas. These subjects are further categorized into smaller topics. The various SAT Subjects include:
- Mathematics
- Science
- English
- History and
- Languages
SAT Exam Pattern 2020
|
SAT Subject |
SAT Syllabus |
SAT Test Pattern |
|---|---|---|
|
Math 58 questions |
This section includes questions on problem-solving, data analysis, algebra, and advanced math. |
Duration: 80 minutes Score: 200-800 |
|
Reading 52 questions |
This section includes questions on Sentence Completion, Tests understanding of passages from the US and world Literature, History/Social Studies, and Sciences. |
Duration: 65 minutes Score Range: 200-800 (combined with Writing Section) |
|
Writing and Language 44 questions |
This section includes questions on, expression of ideas and standard English conventions through passages related to Careers, History/Social Studies, Humanities, and Sciences. |
Duration: 35 minutes Score Range: 200-800 (combined with Reading Section) |
|
Essay (optional) One optional essay |
This section requires students to evaluate an argument through the analysis of evidence. |
Duration: 50 minutes not scored |
|
Total 154 questions |
n/a |
Duration: 3 hours (with optional 50 minutes) Score: 1600 |
SAT Exam Syllabus 2020
SAT Syllabus includes courses which students have already covered in their school curriculum over the years. Syllabus for SAT exam includes:
- Reading section
- Writing
- Mathematics
There are two ways students prepare for SAT: Self-Study and Coaching Classes. Both options have unique benefits and they are equally good with quantifiable benefits.
Since the SAT structure has completely changed and is now known as the Redesigned SAT or the New SAT, you will have to purchase books meant for the new structure.
If you were preparing for the SAT since previous years, unfortunately, you will have to start all over again. The reason is that in the new structure, the questions and syllabus have been completely overhauled. We recommend you take coaching classes for those appearing in 2020, as this is the first year of the new SAT. If you are studying on your own, you might miss out on some details the experts know of the new structure.
Here are some articles on the old structure of SAT:
There are two ways students prepare for SAT: Self-Study and Coaching Classes. Both options have unique benefits and they are equally good with quantifiable benefits.
Since the SAT structure has completely changed and is now known as the Redesigned SAT or the New SAT, you will have to purchase books meant for the new structure.
Check out:
- Best Books and Resources for SAT
- Taking SAT Practice Tests: Tips and Resources
- How to score 2200 on SAT?
- When Should You Start Studying for SAT?
- Exam Day Tips for SAT
If you were preparing for the SAT since previous years, unfortunately, you will have to start all over again. The reason is that in the new structure, the questions and syllabus have been completely overhauled. We recommend you take coaching classes for those appearing in 2020, as this is the first year of the new SAT. If you are studying on your own, you might miss out on some details the experts know of the new structure.
Here are some articles on the old structure of SAT:
SAT Preparation FAQs
Still have more doubts about the SAT? Go through the most frequently asked questions about the SAT and SAT preparation FAQs.
Q. What type of questions are asked in the SAT?
A. The SAT test includes 154 multiple-choice (MCQs) questions and 1 options essay. Different type of SAT questions are
|
Sections |
Type of questions |
|---|---|
|
Math |
|
|
Reading |
|
|
Writing |
|
Q. What SAT score is required for Harvard?
A. There is no specific SAT score requirement for getting to Harvard, however, candidates should have at least more than 1460 to be considered by Harvard.
Q. How to prepare for SAT?
A. Step 1: Understand the SAT exam pattern
Step 2: Gather study material offline and online
Step 3: Make a proper study plan
Step 4: Work on your strategy
Step 5: Take timely practice tests
Q. Is there any common answer on SAT?
A. No, there is no common answer on the SAT. Each answer choice whether A, B, C, or D are evenly distributed, so, guessing a particular choice (e.g. option B) for most questions will not be the right approach.
Q. How many hours of study are required for SAT?
A. Usually, candidates need to study for 2 hours daily for at least 4 months. If you study for more hours then you may cover the syllabus in less time and vice versa. Also, it can vary from individual to individual as some students can understand the basics in less time whereas some can take a little more.
SAT is the standardized test required for admissions in the undergraduate courses in the US and Canada. The full form of SAT is Scholastic Assessment Test. The exam is designed to assess a candidate's potential through written, verbal, and mathematical skills. This is further designed to get admission in a particular course as it helps in evaluating the candidate's knowledge in a particular subject. It can be taken in areas like Literature, History, Mathematics, Sciences and Foreign Languages. In this article, we will provide you various SAT Sample Papers, so, you can prepare for the SAT 2020 Exam first hand. Read: Essential SAT Tips and Strategies
SAT Test Pattern
The SAT Exam includes Math, Critical Reading and Writing section. The SAT Exam Pattern is further explained in the table:
|
SAT Subject |
SAT Syllabus |
SAT Test Pattern |
|---|---|---|
|
Math 57 questions |
This section includes questions on problem-solving, data analysis, algebra, and advanced math. |
Duration: 80 minutes Score: 200-800 |
|
Reading 52 questions |
This section includes questions on Sentence Completion, Tests understanding of passages from the US and World Literature, History/Social Studies, and Sciences. |
Duration: 65 minutes Score Range: 200-800 (combined with Writing Section) |
|
Writing and Language 44 questions |
This section includes questions on, expression of ideas and standard English conventions through passages related to Careers, History/Social Studies, Humanities, and Sciences. |
Duration: 35 minutes Score Range: 200-800 (combined with Reading Section) |
|
Essay (optional) One optional essay |
This section requires students to evaluate an argument through the analysis of evidence. |
Duration: 50 minutes not scored |
|
Total 154 questions |
n/a |
Duration: 3 hours (with optional 50 minutes) Score: 1600 |
Study Material - Books
It is said that the New SAT could be more difficult for international students: The Princeton Review AVP. With these changes, your preparation for the old SAT would not prove to be of any help in the new SAT. The existing sample papers or practice tests available in the random websites throughout the internet may not be authentic and latest. It is recommended to refer the official SAT practice tests from the official website:
Understanding SAT Scores might prove to be a tough task for candidates. The overall SAT test is scored on a scale of 400-1600, whereas in India, students are used to understanding scores in percentiles. That is why having a data table for interpreting SAT and Subject Test scores becomes necessary. Here is how the SAT score percentile is calculated.
SAT Results 2020
Candidates who plan to appear for their SAT exam are required to keep the below dates in mind. Candidates are advised to complete their SAT Registration before the deadline to avoid any last-minute confusion. The expected SAT Score dates have also been published for the convenience of our readers.
2020-21 SAT Score Release Schedule
|
SAT Test Date |
Online SAT Score Release Date |
College Receiving score date |
|---|---|---|
|
August 29, 2020 |
Multiple-choice scores release date: September 21 SAT Essay scores release date: September 24 |
September 26, 2020 |
|
September 26, 2020 |
Multiple-choice scores release date: October 9 SAT Essay scores release date: October 12 |
October 23, 2020 |
|
October 3, 2020 |
Multiple-choice scores release date: October 16 SAT Essay scores release date: October 19 |
October 31, 2020 |
|
November 7, 2020 |
Multiple-choice scores release date: November 20 SAT Essay scores release date: November 23 |
December 4, 2020 |
|
December 5, 2020 |
Multiple-choice scores release date: December 18 SAT Essay scores release date: December 21 |
January 2, 2021 |
|
March 13, 2021 |
Multiple-choice scores release date: March 26, 2021 SAT Essay scores release date: March 29, 2021 |
April 10, 2021 |
|
May 8, 2021 |
Multiple-choice scores release date: May 21, 2021 SAT Essay scores release date: May 24, 2021 |
June 5, 2021 |
|
June 5, 2021 |
Multiple-choice scores release date: July 14, 2021 SAT Essay scores release date: July 14, 2021 |
July 26, 2021 |
SAT Score
SAT score reports consist of the following information
- The Total Score: As the title suggests, the Total Score is the sum of the two Section Scores and this score ranges from 400 to 1600.
- Sectional Score: The sectional score ranges from 200-800 and is based on the performance of the candidate on the Math Section and Evidence-Based Reading & Writing Sections.
- Subscore (marks scored in each type of question): Subscores are multiple points for Reading, Writing and Language, and Math Sections, all ranging from 1 to 15. The main purpose of Sub scores is to provide additional insight into the students' performance.
- Essay score (if applicable): Candidates who have undertaken the SAT with the essay will have the scores for Essay Reading (2-8 points), Essay Writing (2-8 points) and Essay Analysis (2-8 points) displayed under the Essay Details tab.
- Student's percentile: The student's percentile score tells you how well the student has performed his SAT exam as compared to other test takers.
At a Glance – Components of an SAT Score Report and what they mean
|
Components |
Description |
Score Range |
|---|---|---|
|
Total Score |
The aggregate of the two section scores |
400–1600 |
|
Section Scores |
Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math Sections |
200–800 |
|
Test Scores |
Reading, Writing and Language, and Math Sections. |
10–40 |
|
SAT Essay Scores (optional) |
Reading, Analysis, and Writing. |
2–8 |
|
Cross-Test |
These scores show how well you use your skills to analyze texts and solve problems in these subject areas. |
10–40 |
|
Sub Scores |
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. |
1–1 |
SAT Subject Test Percentiles
As the term suggests, SAT Subject Test Percentile ranks compare a student's scores to other students who appeared for the same test. So for example, if a test takers SAT Math 2 Subject Test score is 500 and if the percentile rank for 500 is 50, then this basically means that the candidate has done better than 50 percent of the students who took the particular test, i.e. SAT Math 2 Subject Test.
Since a different percentage of students take the different subject exams under SAT Subject Tests, hence it would be technically incorrect to compare the SAT Subject Test Chemistry Percentile with SAT Subject Test Math 2 Percentile or vice versa. Candidates looking to see how they have fared in the SAT Subject Test with other candidates can check out SAT Subject Test Percentiles 2019 and for other past years on the official CollegeBoard website – the conducting body of the SAT exam.
Check Score v/s Percentile
Here is a table to show students how the SAT Score percentile is calculated.
|
SAT Scaled Score Range (Out of 1600) |
Percentile |
|
1600 |
99+ |
|
1550 |
99+ |
|
1510 |
99 |
|
1450 |
98 |
|
1400 |
95 |
|
1330 |
90 |
|
1230 |
80 |
|
1170 |
71 |
|
1110 |
61 |
|
1060 |
51 |
|
1000 |
40 |
|
950 |
31 |
|
890 |
21 |
|
810 |
11 |
|
750 |
5 |
|
680 |
1 |
|
630 |
1- |
|
400 |
1- |
How to check the SAT score?
Candidates can access the SAT score report on their College Board profile.
Steps to check SAT scores
- Step 1- Visit the College Board's site
- Step 2- Sign in using your ID and password
- Step 3- Click on My Organiser and go to SAT scores
- Step 4- Click on Access My Scores and enter your username and password
- Step 5- Go to My Test Scores
- Step 6- Your SAT scores will appear on the screen
Candidates can send their score reports to the colleges using Score Choice.
How to Get SAT and Subject Test Scores
Once you are finished with the SAT exam, it is time to send exam scores to the colleges. This is one of the most crucial parts of the whole application process. Most colleges prefer to get the score reports directly from the College Board and not the copies of the report or score report labels on the transcripts.
When to Expect Scores
Your SAT score result will be available online around 4-5 weeks after your test date. Once the score result is available, the College Board begins sending SAT score reports to the colleges the candidate has selected, if any, at the time of registration.
Other Ways to Get Scores
Students who don't have easy access to the Internet can check out alternative methods of receiving their SAT Score, these include
- Paper Score Reports: Candidates who register by mail and don't have an active College Board online accounts will receive paper score reports.
- Scores by phone: Candidates can also receive their scores over the phone. However, they would be required to pay an extra fee for the same.
- Candidates can also access their scores by logging into their online score report and taking a print out of the same.
What is Score Choice
With Score Choice, one gets the freedom to report the score he/she chooses to send to colleges. The candidate can choose the score report by test date or by individual test for SAT Subject Tests. However, before sending the scores always make sure to check with the college or the scholarship program where you are applying, as many colleges and scholarship programs require students to send all their scores. If the candidate doesn't select Score Choice then College Board will send all the available scores of the candidate to the colleges which he/she has selected as score recipients.
How to send Scores during Registration?
Applicants receive four free score reports while registering for the SAT exam. Applicants get the option of sending these reports to their choice of colleges or scholarship programs for free. Aspirants can send the scores up to nine days of taking the test. After nine days they will be charged for sending the score reports. With this, the aspirant can send four reports for free. However, there is a catch, the aspirants are sending the scores without knowing their actual scores. This means, the candidates won't be able to choose the score they want to send or they won't be able to send their best scores. In this case, it is advisable to send the score reports to the colleges that want to see all the SAT scores of the candidates.
Note: The SAT exam has undergone a big change in 2016. Changes include a new structure, new score, new sections, and a new approach to testing. Read all about the New SAT.
