Purpose of the SAT Exam: Why It Matters for College Admissions

Did you know that as of March 2024, the traditional pen-and-paper SAT is history, and you will now take the digital version of the SAT?

The SAT, one of the primary eligibility criteria for students aspiring to pursue undergraduate courses, especially in US and Canadian universities, has gone digital. That’s right! After almost a hundred years of being a paper-and-pencil test, the SAT is all about test-taking tablets now. 

The new SAT digital exam, called Digital SAT (dSAT), is about personalisation and efficiency. The traditional paper-and-pencil SAT comprised 3 sections: reading, writing, and maths. This has been replaced by a streamlined dSAT featuring 2 modules each for ‘reading and writing’ and ‘maths’. 

So, if you have been wondering, ‘SAT exam is for what purpose’, this guide is a goldmine of answers. You will find answers to all your questions – why SAT exam is required, what is the difference between SAT and Digital SAT (dSAT), what is the fee structure for SAT, how to prepare for the SAT, and a lot more. Dive in for details.

Key Highlights

‘SAT exam is for what purpose’ – if this is your question, here’s a snapshot table of everything you will learn in this comprehensive blog post. 

*Please note: The exact dates may vary from year to year

SAT Exam is for What Purpose?

Are you aspiring to be admitted to the top universities in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, India, and other countries? If so, the SAT exam can be beneficial! More than 4,000 colleges and universities in the US and 85 other countries consider SAT scores when making admission and placement decisions.

The SAT Suite of Assessments Annual Report reveals that over 1.9 million students in the high school class of 2023 took the SAT® at least once, an increase from 1.7 million in 2022. This data proves that more students are considering higher education opportunities and recognising the importance of the SAT for undergraduate admission. 

The SAT exam purpose is:

• To assess your ability in English speaking, grammar, and mathematics and your overall capabilities. 
• To gauge your readiness for college.

Prestigious universities such as the University of Cambridge, Yale University, and the University of Toronto accept SAT scores as part of their admission process. The SAT exam format may vary depending on the country and educational institution’s requirements. However, the fundamental structure remains consistent – Digital SAT is of adaptive nature. 

Benefits of the SAT Exam: Top 4 Reasons to Apply

Here’s a fun fact for you: The SAT exam was created in 1926 as an Army recruitment IQ test.

Today, the SAT plays a crucial role in university admissions in the United States and other countries. If you plan to apply to universities worldwide, you must be aware of the benefits of the SAT exam. 

Here are a few reasons why millions of students around the world take SAT exams and you should too. 

1. Apply for Admissions Around the World

The SAT exam score is accepted by over 4,000 universities worldwide. This means you can apply to a wide range of programs, including engineering, medicine, humanities, and art, in different universities and colleges, with just one exam.

2. Scholarship Opportunities

The SAT is a perfect exam for exploring scholarships in the UK, US, Australia, and Canada, among other places. For instance, the University of Mississippi, one of the highest-ranked universities in Mississippi, offers Freshmen scholarships for deserving students. A minimum SAT score of 1,060 is required to qualify for this award.

3. Can Be Taken Multiple Times

You can take the SAT as many times as you want. 

Most often, students achieve higher scores on their second attempt, and most colleges consider the highest SAT score when making admission decisions. You should follow this approach as well. Consider taking the SAT once in the spring of your junior year and again in the fall of your senior year.

4. Sets your Application Apart

While it may not be mandatory, a strong SAT score can set your application apart. A good SAT score can compensate for a lower GPA (Grade Point Average). Additionally, some universities offer scholarships based on SAT scores.

Please note: College applicants’ best SAT scores depend on their target schools.

Top Universities Accepting SAT Scores

Did you know: According to the Ministry of External Affairs, approximately 1.5 million Indian students are pursuing education abroad? 

Studying abroad offers an excellent opportunity for personal development and academic advancement. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the number of Indian students seeking higher education opportunities overseas. 

With nearly 200 US universities ranked among the top 1,500 in the QS World University Rankings worldwide, the United States remains the top destination, hosting approximately 2,68,923 Indian students. Following closely are Canada, Australia, the UK and New Zealand. 

By now, you are aware that the SAT is a crucial component of the application process for many students aspiring to study higher education abroad. That being said, it is essential to know which top colleges accept SAT scores so that you can prepare accordingly. 

Here is a list of the globally acclaimed universities accepting SAT scores. 

Please note: This test alone will not guarantee admission to your preferred university. 

Understanding the Digital SAT Exam Pattern

Did you know that over 1.7 million students take the SAT exam every year to gain admission to US and Canadian universities? But starting your journey to study abroad is more than just boarding a flight! 

It’s about making big decisions, and one crucial decision is taking the SAT exam, which can open doors to top universities that accept SAT scores. To succeed, you must understand the dSAT exam pattern. 

The digital SAT format adapts the question difficulty based on your real-time performance, making it personalised to each student. By adjusting the difficulty level of questions based on your performance, the digital SAT accurately measures your understanding, giving scores that genuinely reflect your abilities. 

What’s more? It includes built-in accessibility features and an online graphing calculator (known as desmos calculator), making it more inclusive. Additionally, you can use digital practice materials that replicate the test environment, including timing and question types.

According to the College Board, students taking the Digital SAT can use either their own device or a school-issued one.

The table below highlights the necessary details about the dSAT test format. 

The dSAT exam pattern is shorter, lasting 2 hours and 14 minutes compared to 3 hours in the traditional method. With 98 questions in total, you have an average of 1 minute and 30 seconds per question to navigate freely within each section. 

The digital SAT also introduces the following features to assist in test-taking:

• Digital timer: A clock displays the time remaining in each module, allowing you to track your progress. 
• Mark for review: You can flag questions you want to revisit within a section.
• Reference sheet: You have access to a reference sheet containing standard formulas in the maths section.
• On-screen calculator: For maths questions, a built-in graphing calculator aids in faster calculations. You can also bring your own approved calculator.

What’s more? You receive score reports from the digital tests within a matter of days, compared to the 2 to 4 weeks required in the traditional SAT. 

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What is Pen and Paper SAT and dSAT?

Curious about what the SAT is precisely? Keep reading to find out!

The full form of SAT is the Scholastic Assessment Test. It is a popular gateway for students in India to seek higher education in foreign countries. The exam is designed and conducted by the College Board – a not-for-profit membership organisation that has been offering SAT for about 100 years now. 

The College Board also provides SAT School Day, a program allowing students to take the SAT at their high schools during a regular school day in either the fall or spring. The SAT is held 7 times throughout the year, usually on the first Saturday of the month. 

While the SAT has long been a paper-pencil test, the College Board phased out this format in 2023, replacing it with a new format, now referred to as the Digital SAT. 

Here’s a comparison table containing essential information on Digital SAT versus Paper SAT. Have a look!

Now, let’s proceed and explore the details of the dSAT exam. 

The digital SAT comprises 2 sections: Evidence-based Reading and Writing and Maths. Here is a table highlighting the details of both sections. 

There is a 10-minute break between the Reading and Writing and Maths sections. The first module of each section presents a mix of easy, medium, and complex questions. Depending on your performance in the first module, the difficulty level of the second module will be adjusted.

SAT Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students

The SAT exam has existed for nearly a century and has evolved significantly. To this day, it remains one of the most widely used measures for college undergraduate admissions.

Now let’s help you dig deeper into the eligibility criteria and essential information you need to know as you begin your SAT preparation journey.

The College Board hasn’t set any eligibility criteria for students appearing for the SAT exam. However, there are specific parameters you should know before applying for the exam. 

1. Age Limit: There is no age limit for the SAT exam. While the highest age range for those who appear for the exam is 17-19, older students can also take the rest. 
2. Educational Background: You don’t necessarily need a 10+2 certificate to apply for the SAT. However, as the exam is conducted for students who want to get admitted for an undergraduate course in universities/colleges abroad, you must have successfully cleared high school. 

SAT 2024 Exam Date for Indian Students

The SAT offers 7 test dates annually in India, giving students flexibility to choose a date that fits their preparation activity. The exams are scheduled across these months: March, May, June, August, October, November, and December.

Please note: The exact dates may vary from year to year, so it is recommended that you check the official College Board website for updated information.

Currently, registration is open for all students for the entire 2024–25 testing year. 

Here are the test dates and registration timeline for all students planning to take the digital SAT. 

SAT Exam Centres in India 2024

Searching for SAT centres in India? Before looking any further, you must know that 73 SAT exam centres are spread across 44 major Indian cities. These cities include New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Kanpur, Chennai and more. 

It is important to note that similar to the paper SAT, the dSAT cannot be taken at home. It will be administered in schools and other designated testing centres only. 

Concerned about how to find the nearest testing location for the SAT exam? Here’s everything you need to know:

• The first step is to log in to the College Board website and access the registration page.
• Select your desired SAT exam date and then the SAT exam centre.
• If you select a country, you will see the closest SAT testing location option when you search via the test centre code or city.
• Once you’ve selected a city or test centre code, you’ll see which SAT exam locations are closest to your address.
• Finally, you can choose the most suitable location for your exam day and complete the registration process. 

It is advisable to choose the closest SAT centre for the convenience of the students. 

Digital SAT Exam Syllabus 2024

Are you taking the dSAT exam this year? If so, this section will be your valuable guide to know about the syllabus of this internationally recognised exam. The dSAT exam is divided into 2 sections – evidence-based reading and writing and maths to evaluate your unique skills. 

The evidence-based reading and writing section includes more interactive questions, using hyperlinks to direct you to specific parts of the passages. The maths section, on the other hand, features interactive problems that might require you to move graphical elements on the screen.

Here is a table for your quick reference. 

Now, let’s help you analyse each section in detail.

The Reading and Writing Section

In the reading and writing section of the dSAT, there’s a two-stage adaptive test design format. This format aims to evaluate student’s abilities more accurately by changing the difficulty of questions based on their performance. 

Here’s what the section looks like:

Maths Section

The maths section also features a two-stage adaptive format, adjusting the difficulty level of questions based on each student’s performance in real-time. 

Here’s how it works:

What is the Fee for the Digital SAT Examination?

Now that you have the primary question answered – SAT exam is for what purpose – it’s time to find out further details. What is the fee for the SAT exam? This section tackles everything you need to know about the fee structure for the dSAT. Have a look. 

• Currently, the SAT registration fee is INR 5,010 (plus an INR 3,500 regional fee). 
• Starting from test dates in August 2024, the registration fee will be INR 5,600, with the same additional INR 3,500 regional fee.

Please note: Additional fees apply for certain services related to SAT testing. 

The table below details the SAT fees for the May and June 2024 administrations:

*The late registration generally extends for about two weeks following the regular registration deadline. 

If you miss this deadline, you can still register for the exam during the late registration period by paying a late fee. However, to avoid these additional charges, it’s best to register for the exam as early as possible.

By doing so, you’ll not only save money but also have more time to prepare for the test. Moreover, early registration lets you choose your preferred test date and location. 

Now, let’s move on to the fee structure for the August 2024–June 2025 administrations.

The SAT exam fee is charged for certain score-related services as follows:

*Your first 4 score reports are free if you order them within 9 days after the test date. Additional reports or reports ordered after that period will incur this fee.

How to Apply for the Digital SAT Exam in 2024

The College Board offers online registration for SAT. The process is quite straightforward, user-friendly, and easily accessible, making it convenient for you.

Once you decide when and where you want to take the SAT, you can proceed with online registration. The registration is a convenient 30-minute process. 

Here is a step by step guide to complete the online registration.

• Create a free College Board account.
• Complete your online registration by providing all the necessary details in the SAT exam 2024 application form.
• Choose an exam centre from the available options and select an SAT exam date.
• Upload a photo that meets the requirements (.jpg, .gif, or .png.)
• Finally, pay the SAT registration fee (INR 5,010, plus an INR 3,500 regional fee) to finish the process. 

SAT Score 2024 

The dSAT will maintain the same scoring scale as the paper and pencil tests it replaces. This means it will continue to be scored on the 400–1600 scale. However, the great news is that students will receive their scores faster — in days instead of weeks.

In each digital SAT assessment, students receive three scores: a total score and two section scores. The total score is calculated by adding the two section scores and highlighting the student’s performance on the assessment. The section scores determine how well the student performs in each section individually.

Regarding the marking scheme, questions are scored as either correct or incorrect, with no negative marking for wrong answers. This means that you can attempt all questions without a shade of worry. 

Here is an overview of the score scale for better understanding. 

The score scale is a standardised measure for evaluating and comparing student performance. It calculates a student’s overall performance, enabling colleges and universities to make informed decisions. 

How to Prepare for the SAT Exam

Did you know: The SAT exam is conducted across 260 countries, including India, where 97 centres span 27 cities. 

Yes, you read that right. As the number of SAT students continues to increase annually, the pressure of clearing the exam is also rising significantly. However, with thorough preparation, taking the SAT examination can open the door for many high school applicants to renowned academic colleges and universities all over the world. 

Read on to equip yourself with valuable tips for scoring high on the SAT. 

Study Tips and Tricks for SAT

This section will provide practical strategies to enhance your SAT preparation and achieve your academic goals. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you pass the exam with flying colours in 2024.

1. Master the Exam Format with Practice Tests

• Knowing the format of the SAT can help you feel at ease on the test day. 
• Schedule regular practice tests to master the format on the College Board’s website.
• Thoroughly analyse your answers and identify mistakes after completing the test.
• Experiment with different approaches to various question types to master effective time management.

2. Utilise SAT Prep Resources

• Explore SAT prep books (best options have been discussed in a later section in this guide) and guides that explain concepts, practice questions, and strategies for approaching various question types.
• Choose resources that match your preferred learning style, whether interactive exercises or text-based explanations.

Exam Strategies to Score Higher on the SAT

So, you’ve decided to conquer the SAT, which means it’s time to start preparing and practising now. With practice, you’ll gain familiarity with the test format. However, conquering the SAT is not just about knowledge. You must learn to master test-taking strategies. 

Below are some essential tips to help you prepare to take the SAT confidently. 

1. Optimise your Time Management

• Before commencing each section, briefly review the questions to gauge the overall structure.
• Divide the time for each section strategically, considering the number of questions and your proficiency in different areas.
• Avoid spending too much time on any single question. If you’re stuck on a question, proceed to the next and return later if time permits.

2. Handle Difficult Questions with Confidence

• Carefully examine the questions and try to understand what the question is asking you to do.
• Evaluate each answer choice and eliminate those you recognise as incorrect based on your understanding. 

You can excel in the SAT by incorporating these exam strategies and practising last-minute tips such as ensuring sufficient sleep and reviewing essential concepts.

What are the best books for the SAT Exam 2024

With so many things explained at length about the dSAT, we don’t want you to forget the most important thing. So, this section will highlight the right books you need to prepare for the new digital SAT exam. 

Some of the best books for SAT preparation provide comprehensive explanations of each exam component, including practice questions, focused strategies, and expert advice from experienced SAT coaches. 

Here are the top 5 books you can refer to get a better and exclusive understanding of the SAT exam 2024. 

• Barron’s SAT Reading Workbook
• Princeton Review: Reading and Writing Workout for the SAT
• Dr Jang’s SAT 800 Maths Workbook New Edition, 2022
• The Complete Guide to SAT Reading (Erica Meltzer’s)
• SAT Total Prep by Kaplan

These books provide all the tools, such as sample questions, pre-tests, tips and strategies for approaching difficult questions, and other necessary strategies to excel on test day and succeed in your college admission journey. With the right SAT prep books and a focused plan, students can feel confident in their SAT test preparation for 2024. 

Please note: In addition to SAT preparation books, it is essential to dedicate ample time to self-study.

SAT 2024 Exam Scholarships

Did you know that some universities in the US and other countries offer financial assistance to students from India?

As you are aware, one of the biggest drawbacks of studying abroad is the slightly higher tuition fees combined with living expenses. This might discourage you from going abroad to study. However, with the availability of various scholarships, you can pursue your dream of studying abroad without worrying about expenses. 

SAT exam scholarships can range from INR 2L to INR 25L. To be eligible for SAT scholarship, you must not only have a high SAT score but also meet other eligibility requirements, such as GPA requirements. 

Have a look at the different types of scholarships. 

SAT Exam Scholarship for Indian Students

The College Board offers merit and need-based scholarships to students in India who meet income eligibility requirements at participating colleges. To qualify for this scholarship, you must have a SAT score of 1,300 or higher.

We have expanded the scholarship details below for your quick reference. 

The India Scholars Program by the College Board helps lower-income students in India save money on their university plans in two ways:

• Up to 90% off SAT registration discount
• Merit-cum-need scholarship at participating universities

Let’s expand further. 

Who Can Get a SAT Discount?

• Income-eligible students who live in India and are in Class 11th or 12th.
• 90% SAT registration discount for those with an annual family income of less than INR 8L.
• 50% SAT registration discount for those with an annual family income between INR 8L and INR 15L.

Universities Offering SAT Scholarships

You can apply for scholarships from various universities based on your SAT results. 

Please note: Most universities also assess academic performance, and hence, you may be qualified for the SAT-based scholarship depending on the evaluation of your whole application.

Here is a list of the top US universities that offer well-funded SAT scholarships.

Summing Up

The SAT is a standardised test for college admissions in the United States, Canada, and other countries. It is required for students seeking admission to undergraduate courses. The exam assesses student’s written, verbal, and mathematical skills. 

As discussed, many universities offer SAT scholarship funds to students based on their SAT scores, providing financial assistance to high-achieving students. We hope that this blog makes the purpose of the SAT exam clear. For section-specific tips and tricks for the exam, make sure to check out this on the SAT Preparation Tips.

Frequently Asked Questions