The SAT Exam: What It Is and How to Prepare

What Is the SAT?

The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. It measures students’ proficiency in reading, writing, and mathematics. Many universities use these scores as part of their admission and scholarship criteria, alongside high school GPA, extracurricular activities, and other factors.

During COVID many universities moved to a test-optional model, however more are moving towards it being a requirement again and as such we often recommend students take it.

How Is the SAT Taken?

The SAT is a multiple-choice, pencil-and-paper test administered by the College Board. However, international students now take the it in a digital format using their own laptop in an exam venue. The exam consists of two main sections:

Reading and Writing: Tests comprehension, vocabulary in context, grammar, and analytical skills.
Math: Covers algebra, geometry, data analysis, and problem-solving.

The digital SAT is adaptive, meaning the difficulty level adjusts based on your performance in earlier sections.

Upcoming Test Dates

The SAT is offered multiple times throughout the year. Check the official College Board website for the latest test dates: https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration/dates-deadlines.

How to Register

To register follow these steps:

Visit the College Board website: https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration
Create a College Board account.
Choose your test date and location.
Upload a passport-style photo.
Pay the registration fee and confirm your details.

SAT Preparation: Study Tips and Resources

Practice with Past Papers: One of the best ways to prepare is by doing past SAT papers. Official practice tests are available for free on the College Board website and Khan Academy.
Use Online Resources: Platforms like Khan Academy provide personalized SAT prep.
Time Yourself: Simulate test conditions by practicing under timed conditions.
Review Weak Areas: Focus on topics where you struggle the most.

Study Resources: Free

Khan Academy – https://www.khanacademy.org/digital-sat

Full length practice tests and free, personalised practice based on your diagnostic test results
They also have booklets, videos, etc.

CollegeBoard – https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/whats-on-the-test

Sample Questions, Question of the Day, Practice tests and Tutorials.
They also offer dozens of test taking strategies

Test Prep Review – https://www.testprepreview.com/sat_practice.htm

Allow you to quiz yourself on the different sections, and pick which types of problems you’d like to do to focus on.

The Princeton Review – https://www.princetonreview.com/college/free-sat-practice-test#!practice

Practice tests after which you’ll receive a performance report with tips on how to improve your score.
Does require a login and you to add to your basket (despite them being free)

Study Resources: Charges Apply

Kranse Institute – https://www.kranse.com/

Kaplan – https://www.kaptest.com/sat#

PrepScholar – https://www.prepscholar.com/sat/

Final Tips for Exam Success

Get enough rest before the test day.
Bring a valid ID and necessary materials (e.g., calculator, pencils, admission ticket).
Read instructions carefully and pace yourself during the exam.
Double-check answers if time permits.

Conclusion

The SAT is a crucial step for students aiming to study in the USA. By preparing effectively with past papers, online resources, and structured study plans, students can improve their scores and enhance their college applications.

For personalized guidance on exam prep and sports scholarships, contact BRUSA Sports today!