SAT: syllabus, pattern, fees, scores and preparation
Scholastic Assessment Test, run by College Board. Used for undergraduate admission in the us and at a growing number of universities elsewhere; scholarships.
What the SAT is
Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) is a undergraduate admission test run by College Board. It is used for undergraduate admission in the us and at a growing number of universities elsewhere; scholarships.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Sections | Reading and Writing, Math |
| Duration | 2 hours 14 minutes |
| Score range | 400 to 1600 |
| Fee | US$68 plus US$43 international fee |
| Results | About 2 weeks |
| Validity | No official expiry; most universities accept 5 years |
| Formats | Digital, at test centres |
Types of SAT
Digital SAT
The only format since 2023 internationally, taken on a laptop or tablet using the Bluebook app.
Who can take it
No minimum qualification or age; most take it in the final two years of school. A valid passport is required for international test takers. Seven international test dates a year.
Not sure which test your course accepts?
Requirements differ by university and by visa route. We check before you book.
Talk to a counsellorSyllabus
| Section | What it tests | Questions | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading and Writing | Short passages with one question each: information and ideas, craft and structure, expression of ideas, standard English conventions | 54 | 64 minutes |
| Math | Algebra, advanced maths, problem solving and data analysis, geometry and trigonometry; calculator allowed throughout | 44 | 70 minutes |
Exam pattern
The digital SAT is section-adaptive: each section has two modules and the second module's difficulty depends on your first. Passages are short and a built-in Desmos calculator is available for all maths. Results arrive in about two weeks.
How to register
- Create a College Board account
- Choose an international test date and centre; register at least five weeks ahead
- Pay the fee including the international surcharge
- Download Bluebook and complete the practice tests
- Receive scores online and send them to universities
Scores explained
| Score | Level | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 1500 to 1600 | Top 1 to 2 percent | Ivy League and equivalent |
| 1400 to 1490 | Top 5 percent | Highly selective universities |
| 1300 to 1390 | Top 10 percent | Selective universities and scholarships |
| 1200 to 1290 | Above average | Most good universities |
| 1000 to 1190 | Around average | Many universities and pathways |
Sit it once, with coaching
Small-group courses with weekly mock tests and one-to-one feedback.
See IELTS classesHow to prepare
- Use Khan Academy's free official SAT prep linked to your College Board account
- Take all Bluebook practice tests under timed conditions
- Learn the Desmos calculator well; it saves minutes
- Read widely to build speed on short passages
- Drill grammar conventions; they are the most predictable points
Books and resources
- The Official Digital SAT Study Guide: College Board's own guide.
- Bluebook practice tests: Free, official and adaptive.
- Khan Academy Official SAT Prep: Free personalised practice.
Detailed guides
SAT pattern and syllabus
The digital format, modules and topics.
SAT dates
International test dates and registration deadlines.
SAT fees
Costs for international students and what is included.
SAT scores
Score ranges, percentiles and university benchmarks.
SAT registration
Setting up your account and booking a seat.
Questions about the SAT
Is the SAT required for US universities?
Many universities are test-optional, but several selective ones have reinstated requirements from 2024 onwards, and a strong score helps with scholarships.
Do UK universities accept SAT?
Some accept SAT plus AP scores from US-curriculum students; it is not needed for students with A levels, IB or national boards.
What is a good SAT score?
1300 or above is competitive for good universities; 1450 or above for the most selective.
How often is the SAT offered internationally?
Seven times a year: March, May, June, August, October, November and December.
Is the SAT still on paper?
No. It has been digital worldwide since 2023.
Fees, formats and dates are as published by College Board for 2025/26 and change; confirm on the official site before booking.
Preparing for the SAT?
Tell us your target score and date. We match you with coaching or point you to the free resources that work.