What You Need to Know While Preparing for the SAT
If you aspire to go to a college in America, you must complete a test known as the SAT. The Scholastic Assessment Test, or SAT for short, is a standardised exam set by America’s College Board.
Colleges will grant you admission based on your SAT score, high school marks and extracurriculars. The SAT happens five times a year. If you’re currently preparing for an upcoming SAT exam, here are a few things you might want to keep in mind.
Q: In which months are the SATs conducted?
A: Every year, there are five SAT exams. One each in March, May, August, October and December. In 2021, the dates for the exams are:
- 13 March
- 8 May
- 28 August
- 2 October
- 4 December
Q: How many times can I attempt the SAT?
A: This depends on the colleges you’re hoping to attend. Some colleges only require your highest SAT score. If this is the case, you can attempt the exam any number of times. But, some admission offices require all your SAT scores. In this case, you should not appear for the SAT more than three times.
Q What is the ACT? Is it different?
A: ACT is another standardised test. Unlike the SAT, the ACT has a whole section on science, making it ideal for those pursuing science in college. Apart from this structural difference, candidates appearing for the ACT can use a calculator during the exam. On the other hand, the SAT has a specific section in which students cannot use a calculator.
Q: What is the SAT paper pattern?
A: The SAT has three compulsory sections. A mathematics section worth 800 points, a reading section worth 400 points, and a writing and language section worth 400 points. A candidate can opt for the optional essay section. The scoring for this is separate.
Q: What is the SAT syllabus?
A: The mathematics section has 58 questions. You can expect questions on problem-solving, algebra, advanced maths and data analysis. The reading section has 52 questions. They will test your ability to complete sentences and understand passages from various spheres of life. The writing and language section comprises 44 questions about the expression of ideas and standard English conventions. In the optional essay section, students must evaluate an argument by analysing the evidence presented.
Q: When is the ideal time to take the SAT?
A: Students can start attempting the exam in Class 11. But, they must sit for the final SAT the October before they finish high school.
Q: How long does SAT preparation take?
A: Typically, students require between 5 to 12 weeks to prepare for the SAT. Many students start preparing for the SAT right after completing their Class 10 exams.
Q: What is the right way to prepare for the exam?
A: Every student has their methods. But, once you familiarise yourself with the syllabus, you must attempt a few practise exams before the actual SAT. Doing this will give you a feel for the paper and its time limits. Your practice test scores will also help you identify your strengths and weaknesses.
If you’re currently preparing for an upcoming SAT, you can sign up on TG Campus. We offer 3- and 6-month SAT courses that help you master the exam and get a high score! We also have a vast repository of practice tests and previous SAT exams that will help you. When you study with TG, you also gain access to our highly skilled and experienced tutors who will be with you at every step of the journey. Good luck!
