A score of 1400 or above is considered excellent for top universities. However, a “good” score depends on the colleges you are applying to.
SAT Exam
The SAT, or Scholastic Assessment Test, is a standardized exam conducted by the College Board. It measures a student’s readiness for college by testing their skills in English and Mathematics. The total score ranges from 400 to 1600. Most universities and colleges in the US and Canada consider SAT scores during their admission process. In this article, we will cover all important details about the SAT exam.
Why Take the SAT
College Admissions: Many top US universities accept SAT scores for admission.
Scholarship Opportunities: A strong SAT score can help you qualify for various scholarships.
Standardized Comparison: It offers colleges a common measure to compare students from different schools and backgrounds.
Global Recognition: Students worldwide take the SAT to apply to US universities.
Alternative to ACT: The SAT is a popular option alongside the ACT, and both are widely accepted by colleges.
| Aspect | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|
| Total Duration | 2 hours and 14 minutes | 2 hours and 55 minutes |
| Sections | ||
| Optional Essay | Discontinued after June 2021 | Discontinued after June 2021 |
| Test Format | Fully digital and adaptive | Fully digital and adaptive |
| Calculator Policy | Calculators allowed | Calculators allowed |
| Scoring Scale | 400 to 1600 | 1 to 36 |
Top 10 US Colleges Accepting SAT Scores
Harvard University
Stanford University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Yale University
Princeton University
University of Chicago
Columbia University
University of Pennsylvania
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
Duke University
SAT Test Details and Exam Structure
As of 2024, the SAT has shifted to a completely digital format, with a shorter test duration of about 2 hours and 14 minutes. Here’s an overview of the SAT exam structure for 2025:
Section 1: Reading and Writing (RW)
Total Time: 64 minutes (two 32-minute modules)
Total Questions: 54
Focus: Tests grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, tone, and argument analysis
Question Types: All Multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
Basis: Questions are based on short passages.
Section-2: Mathematics (Math)
Total Time: 70 minutes (two 35-minute modules)
Total Questions: 44
Focus: Algebra, Problem Solving & Data Analysis, Advanced Math, Geometry, and Trigonometry
Question Types: MCQs and student-produced responses (grid-ins)
Calculator Usage: Allowed throughout the math section in the digital format.
Important Tip:
There is a 10-minute break between the two sections of the SAT. Use this time to relax and refresh your mind for the next part of the exam. While practicing mock tests, also take this break seriously — don’t dwell on the previous section. Focus on moving forward because what’s done is done.
How SAT Scores are Calculated?
Each section (Reading and Writing, Mathematics) is scored between 200 and 800, making the total score range from 400 to 1600.
Your raw score (number of correct answers) is converted into a scaled score. There is no negative marking.
Students are also given percentile rankings to compare their performance with other test-takers.
A score above 1400 is considered excellent and competitive for top universities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in SAT Preparation
Neglecting Weak Areas: Focus on improving your weaker topics.
Misunderstanding Questions: Read instructions carefully; some questions have hidden complexities.
Skipping Practice Tests: Full-length tests help with stamina and time management.
Poor Time Management: Track time and know when to move on from tough questions.
Random Guessing: Make educated guesses since there's no penalty for wrong answers.
SAT Preparation Tips 2025
Start preparing at least 3 months before the exam.
Practice daily using official SAT materials.
Watch YouTube videos for extra tips and strategies.
Take regular mock tests to find and fix weak areas.
Follow a daily schedule covering both sections equally.
Focus on understanding concepts, not just memorization.
Always review your mistakes after practice tests.
yOUR ANSWER
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the SAT cost in India?
For the SAT exam in India, the total registration fee is approximately USD 130.98 (INR 11,123), which includes a USD 68 base fee, a USD 43 non-U.S. regional fee, and a USD 19.98 sales tax.
How often is the SAT conducted?
The SAT is held several times a year, usually in March, May, June, August, October, November, and December.
How long is the SAT?
The digital SAT is approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes long.
What is the format of the SAT?
The SAT has two main sections. The first section is Reading & Writing and the second section is Mathematics. Each section includes two modules. The test is now adaptive and fully digital.
What is a good SAT score?
What is SAT exam given for?
The SAT is used for undergraduate college admissions, mainly in the US and Canada.
Is the SAT easy for Indian students?
Indian students with strong English and Math skills can do well with the right preparation. However, success depends on familiarity with the format and good practice. The more you practice, the better you will be with the format and question types.
How many times can I take the SAT exam?
There is no limit. You can take the SAT as many times as you like, but most students take it 2 to 3 times.
Which one is better - SAT or ACT?
Both are accepted by US colleges. SAT is more evidence-based and slightly longer in reading passages, while ACT includes a science section. The time per question is more in SAT as compared to ACT. Choose based on your strengths and weaknesses.
How many US universities are still test-optional for SAT scores?
As of 2025, many universities are still test-optional, but policies vary. Some top schools have changed their test requirements. We recommend that you check with your target college’s official website for accurate and up-to-date information.
What is the purpose of the SAT exam?
The purpose of the SAT exam is to check student’s readiness for international colleges. It provides colleges with a standardized measure of a student’s academic readiness for college-level work.
Is the SAT Digital an adaptive test?
Yes, the digital SAT is adaptive. The difficulty of the second module depends on how well you perform in the first module.
SAT Exam
The SAT, or Scholastic Assessment Test, is a standardized exam conducted by the College Board. It measures a student’s readiness for college by testing their skills in English and Mathematics. The total score ranges from 400 to 1600. Most universities and colleges in the US and Canada consider SAT scores during their admission process. In this article, we will cover all important details about the SAT exam.
Why Take the SAT
- College Admissions: Many top US universities accept SAT scores for admission.
- Scholarship Opportunities: A strong SAT score can help you qualify for various scholarships.
- Standardized Comparison: It offers colleges a common measure to compare students from different schools and backgrounds.
- Global Recognition: Students worldwide take the SAT to apply to US universities.
- Alternative to ACT: The SAT is a popular option alongside the ACT, and both are widely accepted by colleges.
| Aspect | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|
| Total Duration | 2 hours and 14 minutes | 2 hours and 55 minutes |
| Sections | ||
| Optional Essay | Discontinued after June 2021 | Discontinued after June 2021 |
| Test Format | Fully digital and adaptive | Fully digital and adaptive |
| Calculator Policy | Calculators allowed | Calculators allowed |
| Scoring Scale | 400 to 1600 | 1 to 36 |
Top 10 US Colleges Accepting SAT Scores
- Harvard University
- Stanford University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Yale University
- Princeton University
- University of Chicago
- Columbia University
- University of Pennsylvania
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- Duke University
SAT Test Details and Exam Structure
As of 2024, the SAT has shifted to a completely digital format, with a shorter test duration of about 2 hours and 14 minutes. Here’s an overview of the SAT exam structure for 2025:
Section 1: Reading and Writing (RW)
- Total Time: 64 minutes (two 32-minute modules)
- Total Questions: 54
- Focus: Tests grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, tone, and argument analysis
- Question Types: All Multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
- Basis: Questions are based on short passages.
Section-2: Mathematics (Math)
- Total Time: 70 minutes (two 35-minute modules)
- Total Questions: 44
- Focus: Algebra, Problem Solving & Data Analysis, Advanced Math, Geometry, and Trigonometry
- Question Types: MCQs and student-produced responses (grid-ins)
- Calculator Usage: Allowed throughout the math section in the digital format.
Important Tip:
There is a 10-minute break between the two sections of the SAT. Use this time to relax and refresh your mind for the next part of the exam. While practicing mock tests, also take this break seriously — don’t dwell on the previous section. Focus on moving forward because what’s done is done.
How SAT Scores are Calculated?
- Each section (Reading and Writing, Mathematics) is scored between 200 and 800, making the total score range from 400 to 1600.
- Your raw score (number of correct answers) is converted into a scaled score. There is no negative marking.
- Students are also given percentile rankings to compare their performance with other test-takers.
- A score above 1400 is considered excellent and competitive for top universities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in SAT Preparation
- Neglecting Weak Areas: Focus on improving your weaker topics.
- Misunderstanding Questions: Read instructions carefully; some questions have hidden complexities.
- Skipping Practice Tests: Full-length tests help with stamina and time management.
- Poor Time Management: Track time and know when to move on from tough questions.
- Random Guessing: Make educated guesses since there's no penalty for wrong answers.
SAT Preparation Tips 2025
- Start preparing at least 3 months before the exam.
- Practice daily using official SAT materials.
- Watch YouTube videos for extra tips and strategies.
- Take regular mock tests to find and fix weak areas.
- Follow a daily schedule covering both sections equally.
- Focus on understanding concepts, not just memorization.
- Always review your mistakes after practice tests.
YOUR ANSWER
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the SAT cost in India?
For the SAT exam in India, the total registration fee is approximately USD 130.98 (INR 11,123), which includes a USD 68 base fee, a USD 43 non-U.S. regional fee, and a USD 19.98 sales tax.
How often is the SAT conducted?
The SAT is held several times a year, usually in March, May, June, August, October, November, and December.
How long is the SAT?
The digital SAT is approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes long.
What is the format of the SAT?
The SAT has two main sections. The first section is Reading & Writing and the second section is Mathematics. Each section includes two modules. The test is now adaptive and fully digital.
What is a good SAT score?
A score of 1400 or above is considered excellent for top universities. However, a “good” score depends on the colleges you are applying to.
What is SAT exam given for?
The SAT is used for undergraduate college admissions, mainly in the US and Canada.
Is the SAT easy for Indian students?
Indian students with strong English and Math skills can do well with the right preparation. However, success depends on familiarity with the format and good practice. The more you practice, the better you will be with the format and question types.
How many times can I take the SAT exam?
There is no limit. You can take the SAT as many times as you like, but most students take it 2 to 3 times.
Which one is better - SAT or ACT?
Both are accepted by US colleges. SAT is more evidence-based and slightly longer in reading passages, while ACT includes a science section. The time per question is more in SAT as compared to ACT. Choose based on your strengths and weaknesses.
How many US universities are still test-optional for SAT scores?
As of 2025, many universities are still test-optional, but policies vary. Some top schools have changed their test requirements. We recommend that you check with your target college’s official website for accurate and up-to-date information.
What is the purpose of the SAT exam?
The purpose of the SAT exam is to check student’s readiness for international colleges. It provides colleges with a standardized measure of a student’s academic readiness for college-level work.
Is the SAT Digital an adaptive test?
Yes, the digital SAT is adaptive. The difficulty of the second module depends on how well you perform in the first module.