SAT
Overview
The SAT (originally an acronym for Scholastic Aptitude Test) is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. Introduced in 1926, its name and scoring have changed several times; originally called the Scholastic Aptitude Test, it was later called the Scholastic Assessment Test, then the SAT I: Reasoning Test, then the SAT Reasoning Test, and now, simply the SAT.
History
The SAT is owned, developed, and published by the College Board, a private, not-for-profit corporation in the United States. It is administered on behalf of the College Board by the Educational Testing Service, which until recently developed the SAT as well. The test is intended to assess students' readiness for college. It was first introduced in 1926 by Carl Brigham, a psychologist who had worked on the early IQ tests. The SAT underwent significant changes in 2005, with a new structure, scoring system, and types of questions.
Test Structure
The current SAT, introduced in 2016, takes three hours to finish, plus 50 minutes for the SAT with essay. Possible scores on the SAT range from 400 to 1600, combining test results from two 800-point sections: Mathematics, and Critical Reading and Writing. Taking the SAT, or its competitor, the ACT, is required for freshman entry to many, but not all, universities in the United States.
Mathematics
The Mathematics section of the SAT is divided into two sections: Math Test – Calculator and Math Test – No Calculator. In total, the SAT math test is 80 minutes long and includes 58 questions: 45 multiple choice questions and 13 grid-in questions. The multiple choice questions have four possible answers; the grid-in questions are free response and require the test taker to provide an answer.
Critical Reading
The Critical Reading section of the SAT is made up of two tests, the Reading Test and the Writing and Language Test. The Reading Test is 65 minutes, with 52 questions. The Writing and Language Test is 35 minutes, with 44 multiple-choice questions.
Essay
The essay section, which is optional, is 50 minutes long. Test takers are asked to read a passage and then write an essay analyzing the argument presented in the passage.
Scoring
The SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600, with each of the two sections worth up to 800 points. The raw score for each section is then converted into scaled scores, as described below. The total score is the sum of the scores of the two sections. Scores are generally available for online viewing within roughly one month after each test administration date.
Test Preparation
Many resources are available for those looking to prepare for the SAT. This includes books, classes, online resources, and tutoring. The College Board offers a free online program in partnership with Khan Academy that includes practice tests, personalized study recommendations, and interactive quizzes.
Criticisms
The SAT has been the subject of controversy and criticism. Some critics argue that the SAT is not a true measure of aptitude or intelligence, but rather reflects educational and socioeconomic backgrounds of the test takers. Others argue that the test is biased towards males and individuals from certain ethnic groups.