If you’re in high school, one thing I’m sure you’ve heard a lot about is this test called the SAT. Every year before your winter break, you’ll see posters and flyers reminding you to sign up for prep classes and apply to take the SAT. But is it really that big of a deal?
The answer is YES! The SAT is a multiple choice exam, with a written portion that high schools students take before they begin to apply for colleges. The SAT test basically acts as an admissions exam for colleges. The test is designed to determine your readiness for college based on your math, English and writing skills. Along with your GPA, extracurricular activities, attendance, and letters of recommendation, your SAT is also a big part of the determining factor in your acceptance to schools. And it should be taken at least once by your junior year.
What Should I Know About The SAT
The test is 3 hours long (additional 50 minutes if you take the essay portion.
Each category is scored separately so you’ll know what sections you did the best one. The average score is a 1060 and the highest you can receive is 1600. The essay is scored separately.
You can take the test multiple times. Unlike a typical math test in your algebra class, you have the opportunity to get a better grade after you’ve already taken the test. If you are not happy with your scores the first time you take the SAT, you can take it again. When your scores are looked at, they take the best score from each category and that becomes your final test score.
There is no universal way to study for the test. It’s a cumulative test of everything that you’ve learned over the entire 10+ years you’ve been in school. The best way to prepare for the test is to take the Pre-SAT your freshman or sophomore year of high school. You can also find SAT prep classes offered online or in your community to help you prepare. There are also online practice tests online that you can take.
You do have to pay to take the test. The SAT is $47.50 and the SAT with the essay is $64.50. Most school districts provide students with a fee waiver for their first SAT. See your guidance counselor for a fee waiver or visit www.collegeboard.com
There's only 2 SAT dates left for this school year. Make sure you register and take your SAT before the end of the school year. Remember, if you weren't satisfied with your grade the first time you can take it again to increase your scores.
Test Date: May 4, 2019 Registration Deadline: April 5, 2019
Test Date: June 1, 2019. Registration Deadline: May 3, 2019
Make an appointment with your schools guidance counselor if you have any other questions or concerns about taking your SAT. They will be your biggest source of information.