The SAT, a widely recognized entrance exam, serves as a pivotal factor in college and university admissions processes. Crafted and administered by the College Board, this multiple-choice, pencil-and-paper test aims to gauge a high school student’s preparedness for higher education. By offering colleges a standardized data point, the SAT facilitates comparison among applicants.

Admissions officers consider SAT scores alongside various factors such as GPA, high school coursework, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, interviews, and essays. The weight of SAT scores in the admission process varies across institutions.

• A higher SAT or ACT score broadens the array of college options and financial aid opportunities available to students. Typically, high school juniors take the SAT in the spring or seniors in the fall, allowing time for score improvement if needed. The exam is offered nationally in August, October, November, December, March, May, and June.
• The SAT comprises two main sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, totaling 2 hours and 14 minutes. Each section is scored on a 200 to 800 point scale, with the highest possible combined score being 1600.
• While most colleges accept scores from both SAT and ACT without preference, many students opt to take both exams for broader opportunities. Preparing for both tests concurrently has become more manageable since the SAT’s 2016 revision, allowing students to achieve competitive scores on both assessments.

Registration for the SAT typically closes about five weeks before each test date. Students can register online via the College Board website, with mail-in registration available under special circumstances.

For SAT preparation, numerous resources cater to diverse student needs and budgets, ensuring comprehensive readiness for test day.