4798 Mountain Road
Pasadena, MD 21122
410-255-9600
Fax: 410-255-9813
The SAT is an entrance exam used by most colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. The purpose of the SAT is to measure a high school student's readiness for college, and provide colleges with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants. The SAT tests three areas: reading, writing, and math. The essay is optional and will not affect your total score.
Reading Test
In the Reading Test, students will encounter questions like those asked in a lively, thoughtful, evidence-based discussion.
Writing and Reading Test
The SAT Writing and Language Test asks you to be an editor and improve passages that were written especially for the test—and that include deliberate errors.
Math Test
The SAT Math Test covers a range of math practices, with an emphasis on problem solving, modeling, using tools strategically, and using algebraic structure.
SAT Essay (Optional)
The redesigned SAT Essay asks you to use your reading, analysis, and writing skills.
SAT Key Features
Like other assessments in the SAT Suite of Assessments, the SAT includes a Reading Test, Writing and Language Test, and a Math Test. The SAT has an optional essay component, which some colleges will require. SAT questions focus on skills that matter most for college readiness and success, according to the latest research.
Scores
View the score release schedule, find out how to interpret your scores, and learn how to send score reports to colleges. You can also cancel scores or order score verification services.
Score Structure
Total score: 400–1600
Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Section: 200–800
Math Section: 200–800
SAT Essay: Three scores ranging from 2–8