Free SAT Practice Test - Prepare for Your College Admissions Exam
Take our comprehensive SAT practice test to prepare for your actual exam. This assessment includes authentic question types from both the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section and the Mathematics section, with detailed scoring and explanations.
Your SAT Score:
Understanding the SAT Exam
The SAT is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. It measures students' readiness for college and provides colleges with a common data point that can be used to compare all applicants.
SAT Test Structure
The current SAT consists of two main sections:
- Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: Comprised of Reading Test and Writing and Language Test
- Mathematics: Divided into Calculator and No-Calculator portions
- Optional Essay: Although most colleges no longer require the essay section
SAT Scoring System
The SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600, combining test results from the two main sections (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Mathematics), which are each scored on a 200 to 800 point scale.
| SAT Score Range | Percentile | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| 1550-1600 | 99+ | Exceptional |
| 1450-1540 | 96-99 | Excellent |
| 1350-1440 | 90-95 | Very Good |
| 1250-1340 | 80-89 | Good |
| 1150-1240 | 70-79 | Above Average |
| 1050-1140 | 55-69 | Average |
| 950-1040 | 40-54 | Below Average |
| 850-940 | 25-39 | Poor |
| 400-840 | 1-24 | Very Poor |
History of the SAT
The SAT was originally developed as an army IQ test and was first administered to college applicants in 1926. It was created by Carl Brigham, a Princeton psychologist who had worked on the Army Alpha intelligence test. The test was adopted by Harvard University in 1934 as an objective measure of academic potential, and other Ivy League schools soon followed.
Over the years, the SAT has undergone numerous changes. In 2005, the test was overhauled to include a writing section and changed from a 1600-point scale to a 2400-point scale. In 2016, the College Board reverted to the 1600-point scale and made the essay section optional.
SAT vs. ACT
Both the SAT and ACT are widely accepted by U.S. colleges, but they have some differences:
- Structure: The ACT includes a Science section while the SAT does not
- Timing: The SAT gives more time per question than the ACT
- Math: The SAT provides formulas at the beginning of math sections, while the ACT does not
- Calculator Policy: The SAT has a no-calculator math section, while the ACT allows calculators on all math questions
How to Prepare for the SAT
Effective SAT preparation involves several strategies:
- Take Practice Tests: Familiarize yourself with the test format and question types
- Review Fundamental Concepts: Focus on grammar rules, algebraic concepts, and data analysis
- Learn Test-Taking Strategies: Develop approaches for different question types and time management
- Identify Weak Areas: Use practice tests to pinpoint areas needing improvement
- Build Reading Stamina: The SAT requires sustained focus over several hours
SAT Question Types
The SAT includes several specific question types:
- Reading: Passage-based questions testing comprehension and analysis
- Writing and Language: Questions testing grammar, usage, and editing skills
- Math: Multiple-choice and grid-in questions covering algebra, problem-solving, and data analysis
When to Take the SAT
Most students take the SAT during their junior year of high school, with many taking it a second time in the fall of their senior year. The SAT is offered seven times a year in the United States: March, May, June, August, October, November, and December.
FAQ: SAT Testing
How long is the SAT?
The SAT without the essay is 3 hours long. With the optional essay, it's 3 hours and 50 minutes.
How many times can I take the SAT?
You can take the SAT as many times as you want. Most students take it twice, and colleges typically consider your highest scores.
What's a good SAT score?
A "good" SAT score depends on the colleges you're applying to. Generally, scores above 1200 are considered competitive for many colleges, while top-tier universities often look for scores above 1400.
Should I take the SAT or ACT?
Many students take both practice tests to see which they perform better on. The tests are equally accepted by colleges, so focus on the one that plays to your strengths.
How is the SAT scored?
You earn points for correct answers, and there's no penalty for wrong answers (so you should never leave questions blank). Raw scores are converted to scaled scores through a process called equating.
Can I use a calculator on the SAT?
Yes, but only on one of the two math sections. The other math section must be completed without a calculator.
SAT Test Day Tips
- Get plenty of sleep the night before the test
- Eat a healthy breakfast on test day
- Arrive at the test center early with all required materials
- Pace yourself during the test - don't spend too much time on any one question
- Answer every question since there's no penalty for guessing
- Use process of elimination on difficult questions