If your teen is planning to apply to colleges in the United States, the SAT is probably on your radar. The test has changed a lot in recent years, so here's a plain-English guide to how it works now.
The SAT is now digital
Students take the SAT on a laptop or tablet using College Board's Bluebook app, either at a school or a test centre. It's no longer a paper test.
The test has two sections:
- Reading and Writing: short passages, each with one question, covering comprehension, vocabulary in context and grammar.
- Math: algebra, advanced math, problem solving and data analysis, and some geometry and trigonometry. A calculator is allowed for the whole Math section, and one is built into the app.
What "adaptive" means
Each section has two parts, called modules. How your teen does on the first module decides whether the second module is easier or harder. Doing well early opens the door to the highest scores, which is why steady, careful work in the first module matters.
How it's scored
Each section is scored from 200 to 800, for a total between 400 and 1600. There's no penalty for wrong answers, so students should answer every question.
How parents can help
- Start with a practice test. College Board offers free full-length practice tests in Bluebook. A first score shows where your teen is starting from.
- Plan backwards from the test date. Three to six months of steady practice usually works better than a few weeks of cramming.
- Focus on weak spots, not just more tests. Reviewing every mistake is where most improvement happens.
- Practise under real conditions. At least a couple of timed practice tests help with pacing and nerves.
- Look after sleep and stress. A rested student thinks more clearly on test day.
Should your teen also consider the ACT?
Most colleges accept either test. Some students prefer one over the other. Taking a practice test of each can help you decide. You can read more on our ACT prep page.
How we can help
Our tutors build a plan around your teen's practice test results and their target score. They work on content gaps and test strategy in live 1-on-1 lessons. Learn more on our SAT prep page, or book a free demo to talk it through.
Test details can change. Always check the official College Board SAT site for the latest information.