An Overview of the SAT Exam
What is the SAT?
The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) is a standardized test widely used in admissions to U.S universities.
The SAT comprises four compulsory sections: Reading, Writing and Language, Math (no calculator) and Math with calculator. These four sections are scored out of a total of 1600. The SAT Essay is optional though some top universities consider it essential in your application. SAT Essay scores are reported separately from overall test scores.
What is on the SAT?
| SECTION | No. of Questions | Total Time (min) |
|---|---|---|
| Evidence-based Reading & Writing | 96 | 100 |
| Reading Sub-test | 52 | 65 |
| Writing and Language Sub-test | 44 | 35 |
| Math | 58 | 80 |
| "No-Calculator" Sub-test | 20 | 25 |
| "Calculator" Sub-test | 38 | 55 |
| Essay | 1 | 50 |
Who needs the SAT?
U.S. Universities
All first-year applicants
Most Transfer applicants
NUS Medicine & NUS Dentistry
Applicants with IB Diplomas
NUS Law
Applicants with a C grade or lower for:
H1 General Paper; or
H2 Knowledge & Inquiry
SMU & UniSIM
Applicants without any of the following:
A-Level / IB
NUS High Diploma
Polytechnic Diploma
When should I take the SAT?
We recommend that students start preparing for the SAT at least 3 months prior to the exam.
More information on how to register for the SAT can be found here.
Next SAT Date
March 13, 2021
May 8, 2021
Registration Deadline
February 12, 2021
April 8, 2021