 |
|
|
|
|
| Learn about the SAT |
 |
|
|
What is the SAT and how is it structured?
The SAT is a standardized, multiple-choice test used by most U.S. colleges and universities for
admissions and placement decisions. SAT scores can also be used to determine scholarship
eligibility. The test is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and given
nationally seven times a year. The SAT is undergoing some big changes in 2005 and it's important
to be prepared.
The SAT is currently a seven-section, three-hour exam. Three of the sections are Verbal, three
are Math, and one is experimental. The experimental section, used by ETS strictly for its own
research, can be either Verbal or Math and is not counted toward your final score. The seven
sections appear in a slightly different order every time the SAT is administered.
How is the SAT scored?
Students taking the SAT before March 12, 2005 will receive two scores on the SAT, one for Math
and one for Verbal. Each subject is scored on a scale of 200 to 800. The national average is
approximately 500 in each subject (1000 combined). However, most competitive colleges look for
significantly higher scores. While the total possible score on the current SAT is 1600, it will
be 2400 on the new SAT.
How important are my SAT scores?
The weight placed on SAT scores varies from school to school. Other important factors that schools
consider in their admissions decisions are your high school GPA and academic transcript, letters of
recommendation, interviews, and personal essays. In addition, virtually all U.S. colleges and
universities will accept ACT scores in lieu of SAT scores.
For more specific information on the importance of SAT scores at the schools to which you are
applying, contact the admissions offices at those schools.
Can I cancel my scores?
Yes. If you finish the test and think you may want to cancel your scores, you should ask the test
supervisor for a "Request to Cancel Test Scores" form. You may submit the completed form
immediately at the testing center, or you can think about it for a day or two before mailing it
to ETS. However, ETS must receive your request form no later than the Wednesday after the test.
When should I take the SAT?
The SAT is offered every year in October, November, December, January, March or April, May, and
June (see table below for upcoming SAT dates and registration deadlines). Students have
traditionally taken the SAT in the spring of their junior year and, if necessary, again in the
fall of their senior year. However, more and more students are choosing to take their first SAT
earlier, such as during the fall of their junior year. This gives them more flexibility in taking
SAT IIs, the ACT, or the SAT one or more times.
How do I register for the SAT?
Registration deadlines fall approximately five weeks before each test date. To register by mail,
simply fill out the registration form in the College Board's Bulletin for the SAT Program. You
can obtain a free copy of this publication from your school's guidance counselor. Or you can
call ETS at 609-771-7600 and they'll send you one free of charge. You can also register online
at www.collegeboard.com.
How will I know if I'm ready for the SAT?
Try our free online SAT course demo, which includes a full-length practice test. When you finish
the practice test you'll get a complete score report detailing your strengths and weaknesses.
If you are satisfied with the results, then you may be ready. If you feel you need some help,
check out The Princeton Review's many test preparation options or call us at 800-2Review.
How do I enroll in Princeton Review's SAT course at a discount?
To register for a course, call 800-2Review or visit PrincetonReview.com and provide this unique
promo code to receive a $75.00 discount: NAMBWS
|
|
|
