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What Is the SAT®?

Kaplan is here to make sure you know exactly what to expect from the SAT. Learn about the format, questions, and scoring system.

Find your prep

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Save $300, use code: SUMMER300

SAT Prep Course

Starting at $ 599 $899

18 hours of live instruction

SAT Prep Course includes:

  • The SAT Channel, including over 30 hours of interactive live streaming teaching from Kaplan's best instructors—a Kaplan exclusive
  • 8 proctored practice tests
  • 40 hours of on-demand lessons
  • Books & practice questions
Save $350, use code: SUMMER350

SAT Prep Course PLUS

Starting at $ 949 $1299

18 hours of live instruction

PLUS 3 hours of private coaching, ACT prep & practice, and Math Foundations Course

SAT Prep Course PLUS includes:

  • The SAT Channel
  • 8 proctored practice tests
  • 40 hours of on-demand lessons
  • Books & practice questions

About the SAT

The SAT has four sections: Reading, Writing and Language, Math (no calculator), and Math (with calculator). There is also an optional essay that is recommended or required by some colleges.


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Math

80 Minutes

58 Questions

Testing algebra, problem solving, data analysis, and advanced math

reading-comprehensive

Reading

65 Minutes

52 Questions

Understanding complex passages and identifying words in context

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Writing and Language

35 Minutes

44 Questions

Targeting grammar and argument-building abilities

Essay*

50 Minutes

*Optional

Some schools may require the Essay, so be sure to ask before you take the SAT.

How to prepare

No matter what stage of SAT prep you’re in, Kaplan can help raise your score. Just getting started? Check out our free SAT and PSAT Practice Test and join one of our free online SAT info sessions.

Scoring the test

The SAT is scored on a 1600-point scale, with the Math and the Reading/Writing sections each awarded between 200 and 800 points. The optional essay is evaluated separately and doesn’t factor into the overall score. There is no penalty for wrong answers, so it’s always better to guess if you’re not sure. Find out what makes a good SAT score.

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Not sure if the SAT is right for you?

If you’re deciding between the SAT and the ACT, you’ll want to know the benefits and format of both tests. Learn the differences between the SAT and ACT here, and take our ACT vs. SAT quiz to learn which test is best for you.

Practice makes perfect

Taking the PSAT is a great way to practice for the SAT, and could make it easier to afford college. Your score on the PSAT can qualify you for the National Merit Scholarship Awards.

Ready to kick it into high gear?

Let our expert teachers be your guide with a prep course that fits your schedule. No matter what stage of SAT prep you’re in, Kaplan can help raise your score.

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Higher Score Guaranteed†
or your money back

Breathe easy knowing that we believe in you. We are so confident in your success that if your score doesn't improve, we'll either give you your money back, or let you retake the class for free. For full eligibility requirements, visit kaptest.com/hsg.

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