SAT

The SAT created by the College Board is a standardized test widely used for college admission. The SAT, revised in 2016, takes 3 hours to finish. The optional essay adds an additional 50 minutes. The top score is 1600, combining test results from two 800-point sections – Evidence Based Reading and Writing, and Math. The optional essay is scored separately, with 24 being the top possible score. The SAT is offered nationally every year in October, November, December, January, March, May and June.

The revised SAT consists of two sections: Evidence Based Reading and Writing, and Mathematics. Each section receives a score on the scale of 200–800. The Reading section is comprised of 52 multiple choice questions based on passages that you will read. The Mathematics section covers four areas: Algebra (linear algebra and inequalities); Problem Solving & Data Analysis (interpreting qualitative and quantitative data); Advanced Math (quadratic and higher order equations); and Additional Topics (geometry, trigonometry, and complex questions). There are 20 questions that must be answered without a calculator, and 38 questions where a calculator may be used.

The optional essay is evaluated on three criteria: reading, analysis, and writing. Each criteria is scored on a scale of 2-8, with a top score of 24. You have 50 minutes to complete the essay.

The quickest, most efficient, and least expensive way to increase your SAT scores is to buy a SAT prep book and study it. In this way, you will become familiar with the types of questions you can expect. Through SAT test prep, you'll become familiar with each test section to increase your score, and you will also be able to identify weaknesses and target them for improvement.

Alternately, you can attend free SAT practice test at your local high schools or SAT prep classes. The Khan Academy has partnered with the College Board to provide free on-line SAT prep available to everyone (https://www.khanacademy.org/sat). Take advantage of these resources. In our experience, you will do much better on the SAT and other standardized tests if you have spent some time preparing for them.

How important is the SAT?

"It helps us calibrate a student's grades,"said Marilyn McGrath, director of Undergraduate Admissions at Harvard College. SAT scores help colleges interpret students' overall academic performance in relation to the national applicant pool.