What is the SAT?
The SAT is developed by the College Board and administered by the Educational Testing Service. It is a 3+ hour long test that includes sections on critical reading, writing, mathematics, and an essay. Most of the questions are multiple choice, but some are short answer. For the essay the students are given prompts and told to start writing. The SAT has been around for years in different forms. In 2005 the essay was added to the SAT and the test name was changed to the SAT Reasoning Test. However, it is still commonly called the SAT.
Why Take the SAT?
- Many test takers need an SAT score to apply to college. Most colleges in the United States except the SAT as an entrance exam. Although many colleges accept the ACT also, the SAT is still much more commonly accepted, and therefore a better choice unless you know that your college accepts the SAT.
- Other students take the SAT to make up for low GPAs. By studying well, even students with C averages can achieve on the SAT.
- In addition, some scholars use their SAT scores to apply for scholarships. Many scholarships require SAT scores as a part of the application process, and some scholarships are based only on the SAT score. Many colleges, wanting the excellent students to be their alumni, give free tuition to scholars with near-perfect SAT scores.
- Finally, a high score on the SAT can enable scholars to skip the easy classes and complete college faster - saving time and money. Because their high scores on the SAT demonstrates good knowlege of basic "reading, 'riting, and 'rithmetic" these scholars are able to get ahead in school.
For more information about the SAT read my four-part series "4 Step to Acing the SAT"