The SAT Reasoning Test

WHAT IS THE SAT?

SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) is a standardized test required for admission to undergraduate (Bachelor-level) programs in the US, as well as in certain other countries. SAT is composed of two types of tests: SAT Reasoning Test (a general-knowledge examination) and SAT Subjects Tests. A total of 21 different Subjects Tests cover five broad academic areas (English, History, Mathematics, Science, Languages). Both test types are administered in a paper-and-pencil format six times a year in multiple locations in Europe. To find out whether you should take the Reasoning Test or one of the Subject Tests or both, check with the admissions of the university where you intend to study.

SAT REASONING TEST
SAT Reasoning Test consists of a total of ten sections. The first section is always a 25-minute essay task. Each of the sections 2 to 7 lasts 25 minutes, can be on any of the three SAT question topics (Writing, Critical Reading, or Mathematics), and includes one unidentified unscored section that does not count towards the total score. Sections 8 and 9 last 20 minutes each; one of them is Critical Reading; the other is Mathematics. The last section is always a 10-minute multiple-choice Writing section. The total time of the SAT test is 3 hours 45 minutes.

Writing
Time: at least 60 minutes
Format: one essay task and several multiple-choice tasks
Topics tested: grammar, usage, vocabulary
Problem types: Short Essay, Error Identification, Sentence Improvement, Paragraph Improvement

Critical Reading
Time: at least 70 minutes
Format: multiple-choice questions
Topics tested: literal comprehension, vocabulary in context, extended reasoning
Problem types: Sentence Completion, Passage-Based Reading

Mathematics
Time: at least 70 minutes
Format: multiple-choice questions and tasks requiring student-produced responses
Topics tested: arithmetic, sets, algebra, geometry, statistics, probabilities
Problem types: Multiple-Choice Questions, Grid-In Questions

Score
Each of the three SAT sections – Writing, Critical Reading, and Mathematics – is reported on a scale of 200 to 800. In addition, two subscores are reported for the Writing: a multiple-choice subscore on a scale of 20 to 80 and an essay subscore on a scale of 2 to 12.
To find out the score that you need to reach, contact the admissions office of the university you are applying to.

REGISTRATION
The fastest way to register is online: www.collegeboard.com. Alternatively, you can register by mail or through a local representative of the College Board: ETS Europe.

SAT PREPARATION BY THE MBA CENTER
For MBA Center SAT preparation courses, please contact your nearest MBA Center.