The SAT: Format, Structure and Question Types
The SAT: Format, Structure and Question Types
The SAT is a college entrance exam that many colleges and universities in the United States use as part of the college admissions process. Looking for basic information about the SAT test format? We've got it!
SAT Basics
The SAT is a standardized test that measures a student's skills in three core areas: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing. Students in grades 11 and 12 take the SAT so that they can submit their scores to colleges as part of the college application process.
SAT Format
The SAT is composed of three main sections — Math, Evidence-Based Reading, and Writing. There is an optional 50-minute essay*, and total testing time with the essay is 3 hours and 50 minutes. The breakdown of each remaining section can be found in the table below.
Related Topics
- For more specific information about the SAT Critical Reading sections, visit our SAT Critical Reading page.
- For more specific information about the SAT Math sections, visit our SAT Math page.
- For more specific information about the SAT Writing sections, visit our SAT Writing page.
- For information about how the SAT is scored, visit our SAT Scoring page.
- For information about upcoming SAT test dates, visit our SAT Test Dates page.
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Frequently asked questions
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