Preparing to take the SAT can feel intimidating, but you can succeed if you use practice resources and allow yourself enough time to study! We share what to know about studying for the SAT.
Understand how the SAT is structured
Knowing what to expect on the exam and how much time you’ll have allotted within each section can help you manage your time on it. Each section includes some multiple choice questions, so be sure to read our guide on how to answer them here. Here’s a breakdown of the sections within the SAT:
Reading & Writing: 64-minute section with 54 questions.
College Board teamed up with Khan Academy to build free personalized study and practice plans for students.
Princeton Review
Princeton Review has a free online SAT practice test. After you take it, you’ll receive a score report detailing your strengths and weaknesses on the exam to help you focus your studying.
Getting ready to register for the SAT? Learn more about how to register for the SAT, how to prepare, which deadlines to be aware of, SAT costs and fee waivers!
You may know that a high SAT score can positively contribute to your college applications. But how does SAT scoring work, and what’s the highest SAT score possible? We explain what you need to know!
Where to find your SAT score
Your score will be located in your student score portal. In addition to your score, you can also learn more information about your performance compared to other people in your school, district, or state, as well as your performance compared to college and career readiness benchmarks.
SAT scores range from 400-1600, with 1600 being the highest possible score. This score, known as your total score, is calculated by adding your scores from the Reading & Writing and Math sections. Both sections are worth anywhere from 200-800 points. Your total score is what is sent to colleges to supplement your applications.
Do colleges have score preferences or requirements?
Colleges may have required or preferred SAT scores. For example, more competitive schools, such as Ivy League colleges like Yale, may prefer higher SAT scores than a public two-year state college would. To learn the average SAT score range of admitted students to a college you’re interested in, we recommend using BigFuture’s College Search Tool. Just type in a college’s name to learn more!
Getting ready to register for the SAT? Learn more about how to register for the SAT, how to prepare, which deadlines to be aware of, SAT costs and fee waivers!
Time management is important when taking the SAT or ACT to ensure you answer all questions to the best of your ability. In this article, we’ll teach you how to manage your time on the SAT or ACT!
General advice for time management on both the SAT and ACT
Bring a silent wristwatch
While your exam site will have a clock, and your proctor should write the remaining time of each section on a whiteboard, we recommend wearing a traditional, non-digital watch. Both the SAT and ACT allow wristwatches as long as they do not make any noise and don’t have any internet or Bluetooth capabilities. Wearing a watch will help you stay on track and answer questions in each section to the best of your ability.
Be familiar with instructions ahead of time
Knowing what to expect ahead of time can put you at ease during the exam. We recommend taking free SAT and ACT practice tests to study and familiarize yourself with instructions and time breakdowns. This can save you valuable time on the day of your exam.
Don’t spend the same amount of time on each question
Some questions and sections will be more difficult than others. Try answering the easiest questions, or the questions you’re most familiar with, first before spending a bit more time on the harder ones.
Use all the time you’re given
If you finish all the questions in a section with time left to spare, go back and check your answers. Pay close attention to any questions where you made educated guesses. You may be able to eliminate another answer or two, further increasing your chances of success.
Strategies for the SAT
Be familiar with the SAT’s structure
Reading & Writing Section
Duration: 64 minutes
Structure: This section is divided into two modules, each lasting 32 minutes. There are 54 questions in total. Questions focus on comprehension, vocabulary, analysis, synthesis, and reasoning skills.
Math Section
Duration: 70 minutes
Structure: This section is divided into two modules, each lasting 35 minutes. There are 44 questions in total. Questions focus on algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and some advanced math concepts. Some questions require students to enter answers, while others are multiple-choice.
The total duration of the SAT is 2 hours and 14 minutes (not including breaks).
Managing your time on the Reading & Writing Section
It’s recommended to spend around 1 minute and 11 seconds on each question. Keep track of time using the digital countdown clock. Answer the easiest questions first and mark difficult ones with the digital flagging function to revisit later if you have time. Take advantage of digital annotations to highlight important information and notes directly on reading passages.
Managing your time on the Math Section
It’s recommended to spend around 1 minute and 35 seconds on each question. Keep track of time using the digital countdown clock. Double-check your answer if you finish a question early, but try to avoid spending too much time on a single question. While the exam is digital, it can also be helpful to use scratch paper for harder calculations and equations.
Strategies for the ACT
Be familiar with the ACT’s structure
English Section
Duration: 35 minutes
Structure: This section contains 50 multiple-choice questions covering grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills.
Math Section
Duration: 50 minutes
Structure: This section contains 45 multiple-choice questions covering Algebra I and II, geometry, and trigonometry.
Reading Section
Duration: 40 minutes
Structure: This section contains 36 multiple-choice questions that assess reading comprehension in fiction, science, and humanities passages.
(Optional) Science Section
Duration: 40 minutes
Structure: This section contains 40 multiple-choice questions that evaluate scientific reasoning skills through data representation, research summaries, and conflicting viewpoints passages.
(Optional) Writing Section
Duration: 40 minutes
Structure: The student essay written in this section measures writing skills emphasized in high school English classes and in entry-level college courses.
The total duration of the ACT is 2 hours and 5 minutes (not including breaks). The total duration of the exam is 40 minutes longer if you take either the optional Science or Writing sections. If you take both, the total duration of the exam is 80 minutes longer.
Managing your time on the English Section
With only 35 minutes to answer 50 questions, it’s recommended that you answer a question every 42 seconds. Give yourself eight minutes per passage (five total) to keep track of time. If you maintain this pace, you’ll get through this section with five minutes to spare.
Use the questions to inform how you read each passage
This means you should read a question before looking for its answer within a passage. This will decrease the amount of re-reading you have to do and help prevent confusion.
Plug in answers to see if they make sense
Correct answers in the English section will usually have a straightforward meaning and clear sentence structure, so if you plug in A, B, C or D, and only A seems to provide a clear, grammatically correct meaning, that’s most likely your answer.
Managing your time on the Math Section
The key to the math section of the ACT is time management. Focus first on the questions you feel most confident about answering. Answering easy-medium difficulty questions first will help you preserve time for more challenging questions.
Managing your time on the Reading Section
Time management is essential during this part of the exam. Skip around this section to tackle the passages you feel most comfortable with first. This way, if you end up running out of time, you’ll have completed the sections you’re most likely to get correct answers in.
Managing your time on the optional Science Section
Unlike the reading section, questions in the science section will almost always direct you to a specific part of the passage. Don’t read the whole passage unless absolutely necessary to answer the questions. Some passages will require you to comprehend the entire passage and draw conclusions to answer some questions, so be sure to answer those last.
Save the Conflicting Viewpoints passages for the end
The Conflicting Viewpoints passages include two short essays with differing points of view. Be sure to save these passages for the very end with at least 5 minutes to spend on them. If you only have three minutes or less when you get to this section, we recommend jumping straight to the questions and skimming passages to answer them as best you can.
Managing your time on the optional Writing Section
This section will give you one writing prompt that describes a complex issue and presents three different perspectives on it. You will need to thoroughly read the prompt and write an essay that shows your perspective on the issue and how it compares or contrasts from the perspectives given in the prompt. You can agree or disagree with any of the perspectives, or completely make up your own.
We recommend writing both your introduction and conclusion paragraphs first before diving into your body paragraphs. While your body paragraphs will contain the most important information, having your introduction and conclusion paragraphs done first will help you structure your essay and the points you want to make within it. You should spend somewhere between 5-10 minutes on both the introduction and conclusion. Be sure to pace yourself to avoid forgetting to write about important points or arguments you want to make.
Getting ready to register for the SAT? Learn more about how to register for the SAT, how to prepare, which deadlines to be aware of, SAT costs and fee waivers!
Once you’ve taken the SAT or ACT and have received your scores, they’ll be sent to the colleges you’re applying to. While both the SAT and ACT give students four free score reports each, they have different processes and associated fees for sending additional scores. We’ll walk you through how to send your SAT and ACT scores to colleges!
How to send SAT scores to colleges
When you registered for the SAT, you were given the option to send your scores to up to four colleges of your choosing for free. Once your SAT scores are available, they will automatically be sent to those colleges. If you decide to change which colleges your scores will be sent to once they’re available, you have nine days after taking the exam to do so.
If you qualified for an SAT fee waiver, you can send your scores to as many colleges as you want for free.
How to send ACT scores to colleges
When you registered for the ACT, you were given the option to send your scores to up to four colleges of your choosing for free. Once your ACT scores are available, they will automatically be sent to those colleges. If you want to send your ACT scores to additional colleges, the fee is $20 per school.
If you qualified for an ACT fee waiver, you can send your scores to as many colleges as you want for free.
Getting ready to register for the SAT? Learn more about how to register for the SAT, how to prepare, which deadlines to be aware of, SAT costs and fee waivers!
As a high school student, you will come across a few different standardized tests that are intended to measure your readiness for college: the PSAT, SAT, and ACT. While these tests don’t always perfectly or fairly capture a student’s abilities and intelligence, they can be a powerful addition to their college application. In this article, we share the differences between the PSAT, SAT, and ACT!
Do I need to take the SAT or ACT?
While some colleges and universities are test-optional, meaning they don’t require standardized test scores, others may require them. If you know where you want to apply to college, be sure to familiarize yourself with its testing requirements so you have plenty of time to study for and take the SAT and/or ACT. In general, we recommend taking at least one of the two tests so you have scores to supplement your college applications. If you’re unsure whether your colleges require test scores, or if you should take either test, we also recommend talking to your college counselor.
PSAT
The Preliminary SAT (PSAT/NMSQT) is a practice version of the SAT, typically taken by high school sophomores and juniors. It not only helps students prepare for the SAT but also qualifies them for the National Merit Scholars program and other scholarships. To register for the PSAT, students will need to sign up through their school.
Test Types & Timing:
PSAT/NMSQT: Administered in October each year.
PSAT 10: For 10th graders, offered in the spring.
PSAT 8/9: For 8th and 9th graders, available in March/April and October.
The PSAT helps students measure their college and career readiness, though scores are not sent to colleges or used for admissions decisions.
Key Details:
Purpose: Prepares students for the SAT and can qualify them for scholarships, including National Merit.
Test Format:
Sections: Reading and Writing (64 minutes) and Math (70 minutes).
Total Time: 2 hours and 14 minutes.
Scores: Range from 400–1600, typically released 6–8 weeks after the test.
Cost: $18 for the PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10, and $14 for the PSAT 8/9. Check with your school to find out if they offer the PSAT for free or if fee waivers are available. Educators can provide information on test registration, fee options, and how the PSAT fits into college readiness planning.
Students take the SAT to measure their readiness for college and to submit their scores to schools when applying. The SAT is a digital exam that’s offered seven times per year. There are two required sections within the SAT: Reading and Writing (64 minutes), and Math (70 minutes). The total testing time is 2 hours and 14 minutes. SAT scores range from 400-1600. Learn more about understanding and interpreting your SAT score before checking out our list of free SAT study resources!
While it typically costs $68 to register for the exam, fee waivers are available to eligible students. These waivers cover both the cost of taking the exam and sending your scores to schools. The deadline to register for the SAT is typically two to three weeks in advance.
ACT
Students take the ACT to measure their readiness for college and to submit their scores to schools when applying. The ACT is offered seven times a year; test dates are typically on the weekend. There are three required sections within the ACT: Reading (40 minutes), English (35 minutes), and Math (50 minutes). The total testing time is 2 hours and 15 minutes. There are also optional Writing and Science sections that students can complete in addition to the main exam. ACT scores range from 1-36.
It costs $70 to register for the ACT. If you want to take the optional Science section, it costs an extra $5. If you want to take the optional Writing section, it costs an extra $25. Fee waivers are available to eligible students. These waivers cover both the cost of taking the exam and sending your scores to schools. The deadline to register for the ACT is typically five weeks in advance.
AP courses can be challenging. With the right preparation, you’ll be set up for success! Here’s how to feel confident and succeed in your AP courses and exams.
With many colleges no longer considering scores or making the SAT or ACT optional for admission, you may be wondering if it’s worth it to take either exam at all. We’ve answered some of your questions on changes to college admissions requirements to help you decide if you should take these exams. Here’s what you should know!
Do I need to take the SAT or ACT?
For a long time, a student’s scores on the SAT or ACT were a crucial component of their college applications. In 2020, many colleges and universities (almost 2,000 for fall 2024 admission) transitioned to test optional or test blind. This means that these schools will no longer require (or in some cases, even consider) a student’s SAT and ACT test scores when reviewing their applications for admission.
There are pros and cons to this. A pro is that colleges will now take a more comprehensive and in-depth look at a student’s application beyond their test scores. A con is that colleges may not consider or acknowledge a student’s test scores, which could be a major strength of their application.
The SAT and ACT may be optional for you to take, depending on what colleges you decide to apply to. When building your college list, be sure to take note of which schools do and don’t require test scores so you know what to expect when it’s time to apply.
Understanding the difference between test optional and test blind
Test optional schools allow applicants to decide whether or not they submit test scores when applying. If a student does submit their scores, the school will consider them. Keep in mind each school has different policies on which scores to submit. You may be required to submit even lower test scores.
Test blind schools will not consider a student’s SAT or ACT scores at all, even if they submit them.
If I take the SAT or ACT, do I have to submit my scores?
Technically, no. However, when registering for the SAT or ACT, you are allowed four free score reports each, meaning that once your scores are available, they will automatically be sent to colleges of your choosing. When you register, we recommend selecting schools you want to have your scores sent to. If you change your mind, you can request that the SAT and ACT no longer send them. Read more here about how to send your SAT and ACT scores to colleges.
If I don’t take the SAT or ACT, will it hurt my applications?
What are the benefits of taking the SAT or ACT if the schools I’m applying to don’t require test scores?
There are still many benefits of taking these exams even if you don’t end up submitting your scores! Here’s a few:
Some colleges consider a students’s SAT or ACT scores and GPA to award merit scholarships on their financial aid offer letters. If you do well on these exams, you could receive more financial aid!
Many scholarships require applicants to submit their SAT or ACT scores when applying.
If you’re applying to a school that requires test scores or is test optional, good SAT or ACT scores can strengthen your applications.
Getting ready to register for the SAT? Learn more about how to register for the SAT, how to prepare, which deadlines to be aware of, SAT costs and fee waivers!
The ACT is a multiple-choice, timed college entrance exam whose scores are taken into consideration by many colleges and universities during the application process. Depending on where you plan to apply, your scores can be a powerful supplement to your college applications! We share when and how to register for the ACT.
Understanding the ACT
The ACT consists of three main sections: English, math, and reading. Additionally, there are optional science and writing sections. We recommend taking free official practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and timing of the exam.
How to register for the ACT
Register for the exam on the ACT’s website. We recommend registering as early as possible, as the number of spots for each date and at each testing location is limited. If you’re a high school senior planning on applying to college through early action or early decision, we recommend taking the exam before December. If you’re applying through regular decision, we recommend taking it before January. If you are requesting accommodations to take the exam, we recommend submitting them as soon as possible to ensure everything is processed, including any appeals, by the time you want to take it.
What you need to register for ACT
Around 30 minutes of time.
A computer, phone, or tablet with internet connection.
Credit/debit card or fee waiver for payment.
General information about your high school courses.
One headshot photo saved to your device for identification purposes.
When to register for the ACT
National exam dates for the United States, U.S. territories, and Puerto Rico are released in September, April, and June for the following academic year. Using the exam dates on the ACT website, find the one that works best for you. If you aren’t ready to register, you can set up a reminder so you don’t miss the deadline! Here’s what else you should know about registering:
The regular registration deadline is 5 weeks before an exam date.
Keep in mind that the registration fee may increase for late registration.
If you miss your exam’s registration deadline, you can register 1-2 weeks after the deadline date, but for an additional late fee.
The registration deadline is at midnight Central Time.
If you are unable to test on a Saturday for religious reasons, there may be options available.
ACT fee waivers
The ACT offers fee waivers, which allow eligible students to take the exam for free. Students that qualify for fee waivers will also receive access to free study and learning resources. Fee waivers are available to 11th and 12th graders in the U.S. or U.S. territories who meet at least one of the following requirements:
You are enrolled in a free or reduced-price lunch program at school.
You’re enrolled in a federal, state, or local program that aids students from low-income families (such as GEAR UP or Upward Bound).
You reside in a foster home, are a ward of the state, or are homeless.
Your family receives low-income public assistance or lives in federally subsidized public housing.
Your family’s total annual income is at or below USDA levels for free or reduced-price lunches.
Not sure if you qualify for a fee waiver? Connect with your college counselor to confirm.
Getting ready to register for the SAT? Learn more about how to register for the SAT, how to prepare, which deadlines to be aware of, SAT costs and fee waivers!
Getting ready to register for the SAT? Learn more about registering and preparing, deadlines, costs, fee waivers, and more!
When do I register for the SAT?
The SAT is offered seven times a year. The deadline to register for a test date is usually about two to three weeks in advance. College Board lists all of the test dates in a school year, including the registration deadline for each, to help you plan ahead. If you miss the deadline and there are still spots available, you may be able to register with an additional late fee.
If you plan to apply to college through early action or early decision, we recommend taking the SAT by October or November. If you’re applying to college through regular decision, we recommend taking the SAT by December.
The SAT is digital
Here’s what you can expect on the digital exam:
The SAT will be taken on a laptop or tablet. Students without a laptop or tablet can request to borrow one from College Board. You must do so at least 30 days before your exam date.
The total exam time is 2 hours and 14 minutes.
The exam uses adaptive testing. This means the questions throughout the exam will change depending on how you answered previous questions. Read more from College Board.
Calculators can be used for the entire math section.
How do I register for the SAT?
Here’s how to get started:
Click here or head to satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration.
Click “Register Now.”
Create your account and profile. Make sure you use an email you will check often so you don’t miss any updates or announcements!
Pick a test date that works for you. Try to register as soon as possible, since spots can fill up quickly.
How much does it cost to take the SAT?
It costs $68 to register for the SAT. There’s an additional $38 fee for late registration, an additional $34 fee to either change your testing center or cancel your registration altogether, and an additional $44 fee to cancel your registration after the cancellation deadline.
Some colleges may also offer additional perks, like priority application review or special campus visit opportunities for students who use fee waivers. Be sure to check with each school to see what other benefits might be available.
