The SAT is an objective and standardised examination that is a pen and paper-based test in the USA and some other countries with a passing score of 400-1600 that helps universities evaluate the knowledge and expertise levels of students in general and in specific subjects fairly. The College Board conducts it and helps the college admissions staff to judge how well prepared you are for university in the course you wish to undertake and evaluate how well you know the subject matter taught till the high school level. This article will tell you all you need to know about the SAT syllabus.
The General SAT exam pattern comprises 2 significant sections comprising the SAT syllabus – Evidence-based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Mathematics. There was an optional essay section earlier, which has been removed from this year onwards. The sections of EBRW and Mathematics are scored between 200-800 under the SAT exam pattern.
- The Reading and Writing sections of the SAT exam syllabus are made up of MCQs.
- The Mathematics section of the SAT exam syllabus is divided into 2 sets, one of which can be attempted with a calculator.
- Most of the questions in the Math section are MCQs, while some are grid-in questions i.e. questions that students need to solve and fill the answer in the bubble sheet.
- The examination lasts for 3 hours.
- The time limit of the Evidence-based Reading and Writing section is 100 minutes and the time limit for the Math section is 80 minutes.
The SAT examination is classified into two types, namely the SAT Subject Test and the SAT General Test, each with a different SAT syllabus.
What Is SAT
The SAT, formerly known as the Scholastic Aptitude Test and now the Scholastic Assessment Test is a standardised college entrance exam administered by the College Board. It is designed to assess high school students’ readiness for college and provide universities with a standard measure to evaluate applicants.
Purpose of the SAT
- The SAT evaluates students’ verbal, written, and mathematical skills.
- It is a key component in college admissions, alongside other factors like GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations.
- Many universities in countries like the U.S., Canada, and the UK require or recommend SAT scores for undergraduate admissions
SAT Exam Syllabus
The SAT 2025 syllabus includes two main sections: Reading & Writing and Mathematics, both designed to test skills students typically develop during high school. Below is a detailed breakdown of the syllabus.
Reading & Writing Section
This section combines reading comprehension and writing skills, focusing on shorter passages and questions. It is divided into the following domains:
Key Areas:
Information and Ideas: Tests comprehension, analysis, and reasoning skills using texts and graphics (e.g., tables, bar graphs).
- Weightage: 26%
- No of questions: 12 – 14
Craft and Structure: Assesses vocabulary in context, rhetorical analysis, and connections between related texts.
- Weightage: 28%
- No of questions: 13 – 15
Expression of Ideas: The ability to revise texts for clarity, effectiveness, and rhetorical goals.
- Weightage: 20%
- No of questions: 8 – 12
Standard English Conventions: Focuses on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and editing.
- Weightage:26%
- No of questions: 11 -15
Question Format:
- Multiple-choice questions based on short passages.
- Includes passages from literature, history/social studies, humanities, and science.
2. Mathematics Section
The SAT math section evaluates problem-solving abilities and mathematical reasoning. The SAT maths syllabus is divided into the following key areas
Key Areas:
Algebra: Linear equations, inequalities, and functions.
- Weightage: 35%
- No of questions: 13 – 15
Advanced Math: Nonlinear equations and complex functions.
- Weightage: 35%
- No of questions: 13 – 15
Problem-Solving & Data Analysis: Ratios, percentages, statistics, probability, and data interpretation.
- Weightage: 15%
- No of questions: 5 – 7
Geometry & Trigonometry: Shapes, angles, measurements, and trigonometric concepts.
- Weightage: 15%
- No of questions: 5 – 7
Question Format:
- Includes multiple-choice questions and student-produced responses (grid-in questions)
- Calculator use is allowed for all questions.
What is the SAT Exam Fee?
The SAT exam fee varies based on location and additional charges. Students registering for the SAT from outside the U.S. must pay an extra-regional fee and the standard exam registration cost. Additionally, sales tax may apply depending on the test-taker’s location. Below is a breakdown of the total SAT exam fee for international students in USD and INR.
| Fee Type | Amount (USD) | Approximate Amount (INR) |
| SAT Exam Registration Fee | $68 | ₹5,775 |
| Non-U.S. Regional Fee | $43 | ₹3,652 |
| Applicable Sales Tax | $19.98 | ₹1,697 |
| Total SAT Fee | $130.98 | ₹11,232 |
Eligibility Criteria For SAT 2025
SAT is open to candidates of all ages and educational backgrounds, making it accessible to many test-takers. Below is a detailed breakdown of the eligibility criteria for SAT for students, including those from India.
- Educational Qualification: Must have completed Class 12 or an equivalent from a recognised board.
- Age Limit: No upper age limit; most test-takers are 17-19 years old. Students 13+ can register, while those under 13 need parental consent.
- ID Requirements: A valid government-issued photo ID (passport or PVC Aadhaar for Indian students) is mandatory on test day.
- Retake Policy: There is no limit on attempts; students can retake the SAT to improve their scores.
Tips For Preparing For SAT
Preparing for the SAT can feel challenging, but with the right strategies, it’s manageable. As a key step in college admissions, the SAT also opens scholarship opportunities. This guide offers practical tips to help you study effectively, stay focused, and excel on test day.
- Create a Study Schedule: Allocate time for each section and practice consistently to maintain balance and retention.
- Use Official Practice Materials: Take College Board practice tests and simulate actual test conditions to improve familiarity and time management. Utilise an SAT prep book to access structured practice questions and strategies.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify and target weak subjects through regular assessments and seek help from tutors if needed.
- Develop Test-Taking Strategies: Start with more straightforward questions, use elimination techniques, and manage time effectively.
- Enhance Skills: Read widely for comprehension and review key math concepts with flashcards or mnemonics.
- Prioritise Well-being: Sleep well, stay active, and practice self-care to ensure optimal performance.
- Review Regularly: Analyse mistakes and revisit challenging concepts to strengthen understanding.
These tips will help you prepare effectively while minimising stress.
FAQs
What is the Math syllabus for the SAT?
The SAT Math syllabus covers various SAT exam subjects in algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and advanced math concepts. The test is divided into two sections: Math (No Calculator) and Math (With Calculator).
Is SAT Digital an adaptive test?
Yes, the SAT Digital is an adaptive test. The College Board has implemented a multistage adaptive design for the digital SAT, where each section (Reading & Writing and Math) is divided into two modules.
Is SAT tougher than JEE?
The SAT is generally considered more straightforward than the JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) due to differences in the SAT exam syllabus for Indian students, difficulty level, and testing format.
What is the hardest part of the SAT?
The hardest part of the SAT syllabus varies among students, but the Reading section is generally considered the most challenging.
What is the SAT score for Harvard?
Harvard has an average SAT composite score of 1550 out of 1600, making it highly competitive for SAT takers.
We hope you enjoyed this blog on the SAT syllabus. To know more about related fields, do check out our other blogs.
1 thought on “Top PGDM Courses In Canada: Universities, Specialisations & Eligibility”
I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further