SAT

The SAT exam is entirely digital. It is composed of two sections, each of which is divided into two equal-length modules.

The SAT is test adaptive, meaning that the first module of each section features questions of mixed difficulty, and the difficulty of the second module depends on the student’s performance in the first module.

Most SAT questions are multiple-choice, although some mathematics questions require students to enter a calculated answer.

SAT Exams are held during the same periods every year. During the beginning and end of each academic year, SAT exams are essentially monthly. There are also some summer administration dates.

For more detailed information, view the official SAT testing scheduleopen_in_new

The Reading & Writing section includes a series of short reading passages or pairs of passages accompanied by a single multiple choice question.

Questions testing similar skills and knowledge are grouped together and ordered by increasing difficulty. Each question represents one of the four content domains described below. Both modules of the Reading & Writing section feature questions from all four domains.

Passages in the Reading & Writing section of the ACT exam range from 25 to 150 words.

They cover a variety of subject areas, including literature, history/social studies, the humanities, and sciences.

Approximately 30% of math questions on the exam are coupled with some form of context, which requires consideration of a real-world scenario to determine an appropriate answer.

Each question asked in the Math section is described by one of the four following categories.

13-15 Questions

Analyzing, solving, and creating linear equations and inequalities.

Solving equations and systems of equations using multiple techniques.

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  Linear equations in 1-2 variables

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  Linear inequalities in 1-2 variables

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  Linear functions

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  Systems of 2 linear equations in 2 variables

13-15 Questions

Understanding absolute value, quadratic, exponential, polynomial, rational, radical, and nonlinear equations.

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  Equivalent expressions

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  Nonlinear equations in 1 variable

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  Systems of equations in 2 variables

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  Nonlinear functions

5-7 Questions

Applying quantitative reasoning about ratios, rates, and proportional relationships.

Understanding & applying unit rate.

Interpreting 1-2 variable data.

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  Ratios, rates, proportional relationships, and units

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  Percentages and 1-variable data

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  Distributions and measures of center & spread

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  2-variable data: models and scatterplots

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  Probability and conditional probability

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  Inference from statistics and margin of error

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  Evaluating statistical claims: studies & experiments

5-7 Questions

Problem solving focused on area and volume.

Angles, triangles, trigonometry, and circles.

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  Area & volume

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  Lines, angles, and triangles

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  Right angles and trigonometry

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  Circles