SAT  FAQ

How many students take the SAT each year?

More than 2 million students took the SAT during the 2010-11 school year. Since its inception in 1926, nearly 100 million students have taken the SAT.

How many times should a student take the SAT?

The vast majority of students take the SAT once or twice, and the College Board does not recommend that students take the SAT more than twice. There is no evidence to support the idea that taking the SAT more than twice results in significant score gains.

What does the SAT measure?

The SAT tests the reading, writing and mathematics skills that students learn in school, and that are critical for success in college and beyond. The SAT also shows how well students apply their knowledge — the critical thinking skills necessary to succeed in college.

When should students take the SAT?

The College Board recommends that the majority of students take the SAT once during the spring semester of their junior year and again during the fall semester of their senior year.

What types of questions are on the SAT?

The SAT includes three kinds of questions :

Multiple-choice questions
Student-produced responses (mathematics only)
Essay question

How long does the SAT take to complete?

The SAT takes 3 hours and 45 minutes.

What is the highest possible SAT score?

2400 (800 in critical reading; 800 in mathematics; 800 in writing)