About The SAT
The SAT Testing Program is a program of the College Board. Founded in 1900, the College Board is an association of over 5,000 schools, colleges, universities, and other educational organizations. The College Board's mission is "is to connect students to college success and opportunity" (source: College Board Web Site). It does this through programs and services in in the areas of college/university admissions, guidance, assessment, financial aid, enrollment, and more. The College Board's best known programs are the SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, and the Advanced Placement Program (AP).
The SAT Testing Program consists of two tests, which are:
- The SAT Reasoning Test (formerly called the SAT I) and often referred to as "SAT"
- The SAT Subject Tests (formerly referred to as SAT II) and often referred to as "Subject Tests"
Collectively, the SAT tests are designed to measure critical thinking skills, and knowledge and skills in particular subject areas. The SAT tests are used as part of the college admissions process, along with a student's grades, recommendations, and other information. According to the College Board, nearly two million students take the SAT every year, and nearly every college or university in America accepts the SAT or Subject tests as part of its admission process.
When to Take the SAT Test
Most students take the SAT Reasoning Test in their junior and senior year of high school. More than half take the test twice, typically in the spring of their junior year, and the fall of their senior year.
Similarly, most students take the SAT Subject Tests in the spring of their junior year or fall of their senior year of high school. How many Subject Tests a student takes is dependent on the admissions requirements of a particular college or university.
The SAT Tests are offered seven times a year at U.S. test centers, and six times a year at international locations.
Where the SAT Test Is Offered
The SAT Tests are offered in test centers throughout the United States as well as locations around the world. Individuals should consult the College Board web site for the date and location that is most convenient for them.
Registering for the SAT
Individuals may register for the SAT either online or through the mail. Online registration is not permitted in some countries. For tests given at U.S. test centers, both regular and late registration is available. Standby registration is also available for individuals who miss the late registration deadline for U.S. tests. International locations only have a regular registration deadline.
What is the "New SAT"?
"New SAT" refers to the fact that the SAT Reasoning test was recently redesigned. This redesigned test was first administered to students in March of 2005. The new test is three hours and forty-five minutes long and now consists of three sections (Critical Reading, Math, and Writing) as compared to the two sections (Math and Verbal) of the former test. The only change to the SAT Subject Tests was the elimination of the SAT Subject Test in Writing.
