The SAT is a standardised test conducted by the College Board, primarily featuring multiple-choice questions along with a few student-produced responses (SPR). This exam is taken by high school students aspiring to pursue undergraduate programs in countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and others. Designed to assess candidates’ written, verbal, and mathematical skills, the SAT was originally a paper-based test. However, last year, the College Board transitioned the SAT to a digital format, introducing the SAT Digital Exam. With this shift, the test is now classified as a computer-adaptive exam.
The SAT Digital Exam has a total duration of 2 hours and 14 minutes, including a 10-minute break. Additionally, there is no negative marking for incorrect or unattempted questions, making it more test-taker friendly.
The SAT is the preferred choice for most applicants over the ACT, as it offers 68% more time per question. In response to COVID-19, many U.S. universities removed SAT/ACT score requirements for admissions over the past three to four years. However, by 2025, a majority of these institutions have reinstated SAT/ACT scores, making them a mandatory requirement in the application process.
SAT Exam Overview
SAT 2025 Exam Overview
- Exam Name: SAT (Digital)
- Full Form: Scholastic Assessment Test
- Official Website: College Board
- Duration: 2 hours 14 minutes
- Purpose: Admission to undergraduate programs in countries like the US, Canada, UK, Italy, and more
- India Country Code: 260
- Conducting Body: College Board
- Mode of Exam: Online (Digital Format)
- Exam Fee for Indian Students: $130.98 (approx. ₹11,457), including:
- Base Fee: $68
- Regional Fee: $43
- Additional Fee: $19.98
- Score Range: Out of 1600
- Test Centers in India: 129 centers across 25+ cities
- Contact Information:
- College Board National Office
- Address: 250 Vesey Street, New York, NY 10281
- Phone: 212-713-8000, 866-630-9305
SAT Full Form & Exam Overview
The full form of SAT is Scholastic Assessment Test. Initially, it was known as the Scholastic Aptitude Test. Designed and administered by the College Board, the SAT is intended for international applicants seeking admission to undergraduate programs at universities abroad.
The SAT is a fully digital exam, conducted seven times a year in March, May, June, August, October, November, and December. While some universities have made SAT score submission optional, many students still take the test to demonstrate their academic aptitude and strengthen their college applications. Additionally, a strong SAT score can enhance eligibility for merit-based scholarships.
SAT 2025 Exam Date
Students planning to take the SAT 2025 must complete their registration before the deadline. Being aware of the SAT exam dates in India is crucial to avoid last-minute hassles. Candidates should ensure they register before the SAT registration deadline to secure their preferred test date.
Below are the upcoming Digital SAT exam dates for India in 2025:
SAT Test Date |
Registration Deadline |
Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation & Late Registration |
March 8, 2025 |
February 21, 2025 |
February 25, 2025 |
May 3, 2025 |
April 18, 2025 |
April 22, 2025 |
June 7, 2025 |
May 22, 2025 |
May 27, 2025 |
Important Notes:
- Students who need to borrow a device from the College Board must register at least 30 days before the actual registration deadline to allow for international shipping. Once shipped, test dates cannot be changed.
- All SAT registration deadlines close at 11:59 p.m. ET, U.S. (9:29 a.m. IST).
- The College Board has introduced an additional SAT exam date in September 2025, increasing the total test dates to eight for the year. Registration deadlines for the new test date will be announced soon.
SAT 2025 Eligibility Criteria
SAT exam eligibility is specified by the official SAT conducting agency, the College Board. SAT is for admission to undergraduate programs, candidates need to appear for their SAT while in standard 11th or 12th.There is no minimum or maximum age limit for candidates wanting to register for SAT exam. However, applicants belonging to the age group of 17-19 years have recorded the highest turnout for the SAT exams. SAT exam eligibility for Indian students is having a valid Indian passport. Countries that majorly accept the SAT scores and results are the USA, Canada, the UK, Singapore, the Netherlands, Australia, and New Zealand among others.
There are no fixed criteria for the SAT exam eligibility, but there are a few parameters that candidates must follow before appearing for the test. SAT exam dates for Indian students 2025 are offered seven Saturdays per year. Candidates can register for the exam according to their preparation levels.
To get admission to top US universities/colleges SAT exam eligibility criteria depend on the following:
Criteria for SAT Exam |
Details |
SAT Exam Eligibility |
No fixed criteria |
SAT exam age limit |
There is no fixed maximum or minimum age criteria in SAT exam eligibility for students. You can appear for this exam without worrying about any age limit. |
Qualification for SAT exam |
SAT does not require any minimum educational criteria. However, if you are a high school student planning to pursue a degree after completing school, you can start the preparation in the school years itself. |
Frequency |
There are no specified official limits regarding the frequency of how many times a person can appear for the SAT. You can take this exam as many times as it would take you to pass it. However, it is advised that you appear for it at least twice before you complete high school. |
SAT Exam Eligibility for Students with Disabilities
Students with disabilities need to inform the College Board beforehand are eligible to appear for SAT with added facilities. Candidates need to check all the extra conveniences that must be approved beforehand by the College Board’s Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) unit. Once the facilities for the disabled students have been approved, this can be used for both SAT General and SAT Subject Test.
Facilities for Disabled Students for SAT Exam include:
- The use of Braille and large-print exams for visually impaired candidates
- Provision for extra time for completion of the SAT exam
- The use of a computer for essays and
- A provision for extra breaks during the exam
SAT Exam Age Limit
There is no specific age limit for SAT eligibility criteria for students taking the test. It is seen that students belonging to the age group of 17 to 19 are among the highest to appear for SAT. But, the College Board has defined SAT eligibility criteria for students who are less than 13 years old or are studying in a grade lower than the eighth grade.
SAT age eligibility rules are as follows:
- If the test-taker is 12 years of age or younger, they can register for SAT through mail
- If the test-taker is 13 years of age or younger, they can register for SAT by creating the free account
- If the test-taker is aged 21 or younger, they will need to show a Government-issued photo ID, or driver’s license, or passport
What is the Educational SAT Eligibility Criteria?
There are no specific educational eligibility criteria set by the College Board. However, high school students can apply for the SAT. SAT examines the Reasoning, Reading, and Writing skills of the students. The College Board usually tests the skills which students have learned in their schools.
SAT Exam Eligibility for ID Proof
SAT eligibility criteria 2025 are very strict when it comes to ID proof. Only Government-issued ID proofs are accepted as SAT eligibility. For SAT exam eligibility for Indian students, the Passport is the only acceptable proof for taking the SAT. Remember, the SAT ID proof must not be expired, must be presented in an authentic and physical form, and not any photocopy. Below are some of the unacceptable ID proofs for SAT eligibility for Indian students and other nations as well:
- Any torn, worn out, or defective ID
- Document produced on an electronic device
- Any digitally altered or tampered document
- Birth certificate
- Social security card
- Employee ID card
- Missing Child ID card
- Any kind of temporary ID card issued
SAT Exam Eligibility Criteria for Photo
SAT test eligibility letter stated by the College Board asks candidates to provide a photograph that will be used as a part of the admission ticket and also during the security checking process. The photo has been verified at the SAT test centers.
SAT 2025 Registration
SAT registration is important for candidates willing to study in international colleges and universities. SAT exam registration can be availed through both online and offline modes. Candidates need to register for SAT following a few steps of account creation, filling up details, choosing the test centres and finally making the payment. Candidates can opt for their preferred SAT exam dates based on the colleges they want to enter. Below is a detailed evaluation about SAT exam registration, SAT dates 2025, test centres and SAT fees.
SAT 2025 Registration Dates & Deadlines
Before registering for the SAT 2025, applicants should check the registration deadlines to avoid late registration fees. Generally, SAT registration closes about two weeks before the test date, while late registrations can be completed up to two weeks before the exam.
To stay updated on SAT 2025 registrations, refer to the following deadlines:
SAT Digital Test Dates & Registration Deadlines
SAT Test Date |
Registration Deadline |
Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation & Late Registration |
March 8, 2025 |
February 21, 2025 |
February 25, 2025 |
May 3, 2025 |
April 18, 2025 |
April 22, 2025 |
June 7, 2025 |
May 22, 2025 |
May 27, 2025 |
Upcoming SAT Test Dates (Registration Deadlines Yet to Be Announced)
The College Board has also confirmed additional SAT test dates for 2025, but registration details are yet to be released.
- August 23, 2025
- September 13, 2025
- October 4, 2025
- November 8, 2025
- December 6, 2025
Applicants interested in these test dates should regularly check the College Board’s official website for updates.
The following steps can be followed by candidates for SAT registration online.
Step 1: Login to the website to create an account
For SAT exam registration, candidates need to login to the official college board website in order to start the registration process. Candidates can fill in the general details about themselves and move on to the next step to create their profile by signing up to the website.
Step 2: Personal Details
Candidates need to provide their personal details in the registration form for the SAT registration 2025. With this candidates can move on to the next step to create their student profile and ensure that they provide their student details.
Step 3: Student profile
In this step candidates need to fill in their details about high school. Academic details like results and grades, extra-curricular activities the student is involved in and college level details need to be filled.. Based on these details the financial aspects and scholarship requirements can be assessed.
Step 4: Selecting SAT test centres and SAT test Dates
Candidates at this step need to be very careful in terms of choosing the SAT test dates. Candidates should be aware about the SAT dates 2025 to be able to select the ones appropriate. Similarly, the SAT test centres include numerous choices based on which candidates can choose their preferred test centre.
Step 5: Upload Picture
Candidates need to provide a clear and distinct picture of themselves for the purpose of identification. For the purpose of online SAT registration 2025, candidates need to provide their picture with a front face and shoulder view.
Step 6: Make Payment
SAT 2025 Registration Fee & Payment Methods
Applicants can pay the SAT registration fee of USD 130.98 using a credit card or PayPal. It is important to verify the fee amount before making the payment. Additionally, test preparation materials can be purchased during checkout along with the SAT registration fee.
Important Notes:
- No documents are required for SAT registration for Indian students.
- A valid personal identification document must be presented at the test center on the exam day.
- SAT registration details can also be checked on the official College Board website.
SAT Registration 2025 by Mail
Apart from online, candidates can also opt to register for SAT via Mail. The process for SAT exam registration with mail is as follows.
- Candidates first need the Student Registration Guide for SAT and SAT Subject tests from their schools
- The guide contains registration form and return envelopes
- Candidates need to fill up the form and use the return envelope to send it along with a demand draft
- The USIEF is the local representative in India, regional office of whom the mail would be directed.
SAT 2025 Registration Fee
SAT 2025 Exam Fees in India
Candidates registering for the SAT 2025 are required to pay the applicable exam fees. The detailed SAT exam fee structure for applicants in India is provided below:
SAT Exam Fee Breakdown
Fee Type |
Amount (USD) |
Approximate Amount (INR) |
SAT Exam Fee |
$68 |
₹5,775 |
Non-U.S. Regional Fee |
$43 |
₹3,652 |
Sales Tax |
$19.98 |
₹1,697 |
Total SAT Fee |
$130.98 |
₹11,123 |
Additional SAT Registration Fees
Applicants may incur additional charges for test center changes, cancellations, or late registrations, as outlined below:
Fee Type |
Amount (USD) |
Approximate Amount (INR) |
SAT Test Center Change |
$29 |
₹2,463 |
SAT Cancellation |
$29 |
₹2,463 |
SAT Late Cancellation |
$39* |
₹3,312 |
Late Registration |
$34 |
₹2,887 |
*Note: Late cancellation applies if canceled after the change deadline, by Thursday 11:59 p.m. ET before the test day.
Important Information on SAT Rescheduling
- The SAT date rescheduling option is no longer available.
- Candidates wishing to change their test date must cancel their existing registration and re-register for a new test date.
- SAT cancellation fees apply based on the cancellation timeline, and a new registration fee will be required.
- It is highly recommended that applicants carefully select their test date and center during registration to avoid unnecessary charges.
SAT Exam Centers
The SAT exam is held at designated test centers across various major states and cities in India.
Below are some of the key cities where SAT exam centers are available for Indian students during registration:
- New Delhi
- Bangalore
- Calcutta
- Cochin
- Pune
- Mussoorie
- Kodaikanal
- Hyderabad
- Mumbai
- Chennai
Please note that while these cities have multiple SAT test centers, applicants can select only one center during the registration process.
SAT 2025 Exam Pattern
SAT Exam Format & Scoring
The SAT exam now features two main sections: Reading and Writing (RW) and Math. Each section is scored on a scale of 200 to 800, and both are evaluated separately.
The digital SAT consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), with some math questions requiring students to write their answers rather than selecting them. A significant advantage of the new SAT format is the continuation of the no negative marking system.
Compared to the previous version, the latest SAT format includes a few key changes:
- The overall exam duration has been shortened.
- Calculators are now allowed for all math questions.
- There is now a single consolidated Reading & Writing section, rather than two separate sections.
SAT 2025 Digital Exam Pattern Highlights
Here’s an overview of the SAT Digital Exam pattern for 2025, which will help you prepare according to the updated structure:
SAT Digital Exam Sections
Section |
Reading & Writing (RW) |
Math |
Format |
Two separate stages: one for Reading and one for Writing, each with a timed module. |
Two separate stages for Math, each with a timed module. |
Test Length (Operational & Pretest Questions) |
1st module: 25 operational questions + 2 pretest questions
2nd module: 25 operational questions + 2 pretest questions |
1st module: 20 operational questions + 2 pretest questions
2nd module: 20 operational questions + 2 pretest questions |
Time Duration |
32 minutes per module |
35 minutes per module |
Total Questions |
54 |
44 |
Total Time Allocated |
64 minutes |
70 minutes |
Scores Reported |
Total score = Reading & Writing section score + Math section score (Maximum: 1600) |
|
Question Types |
MCQs with four options (Discrete) |
MCQs (75%) and Student-Produced Responses (SPR) (25%) |
Topics Tested |
Literature, History/Social Studies, Humanities, Science |
Science, Social Science, Real-World Applications |
Informational Graphics |
Included, such as tables, bar graphs, and line graphs |
Included |
SAT 2025 Exam Pattern
The SAT 2025 exam consists of two main sections: the Reading & Writing (RW) section and the Math section. The exam pattern has been simplified and standardised for international students. Previously, the SAT was divided into the Reasoning Test, Subject Tests, and an optional Essay. However, the current format focuses solely on the Reading & Writing and Math sections, which are based on high school-level knowledge. The total SAT score is calculated section-wise, with a maximum score of 1600.
As of now, Indian students are no longer required to take the SAT Subject Tests or select the optional essay during registration.
SAT Digital Exam Pattern 2025
The SAT exam is mostly objective and lasts for 2 hours and 14 minutes. Candidates will answer a total of 98 questions across both the Reading & Writing and Math sections. Below is the breakdown of the SAT exam pattern for 2025:
SAT Sections 2025 |
Number of Questions |
Total Duration (minutes) |
Reading & Writing (RW) |
54 |
64 |
Mathematics |
44 |
70 |
Total |
98 |
134 |
Students planning to take the SAT 2025 should review the SAT syllabus and marking scheme to ensure thorough preparation.
SAT 2025 Syllabus
The SAT syllabus consists of subjects that students have typically already covered in their high school curriculum. It includes the following areas:
- Reading & Writing
- Mathematics
Previously, the SAT tested reading and writing as two separate sections, but now they are combined into one. While the exam doesn’t have a distinct science section, science concepts are indirectly included through reading passages in the Reading & Writing section. There is no separate syllabus for science on the SAT.
SAT Digital Reading & Writing Syllabus 2025
Below is an overview of the SAT Reading and Writing syllabus for the new digital SAT. The table outlines the areas tested, along with a description of the skills and knowledge evaluated in each area:
Skill/Knowledge Testing Areas |
Weightage |
Questions |
Craft and Structure |
28% |
13-15 |
– Words in Context |
|
|
– Text Structure and Purpose |
|
|
– Cross-Text Connections |
|
|
Information and Ideas |
26% |
12-14 |
– Central Ideas and Details |
|
|
– Command of Evidence (Textual and Quantitative Inferences) |
|
|
Standard English Conventions |
26% |
11-15 |
– Boundaries |
|
|
– Form, Structure, and Sense |
|
|
Expression of Ideas |
20% |
8-12 |
– Rhetorical Synthesis Transitions |
|
|
The Reading section is part of the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section. It consists of shorter passages, each followed by 10-11 questions, totaling around 56 questions. Each question will have four answer choices. This section is designed to test students’ ability to understand various contexts, analyse associated terms, and interpret written texts effectively.
Types of Questions in the Reading & Writing Test
-
Craft & Structure
Students will be evaluated on their ability to comprehend, analyse, and synthesize texts. This includes understanding and using high-utility vocabulary in context, as well as evaluating texts rhetorically and making connections between related texts.
-
Information & Ideas
This section tests students’ skills in comprehension, analysis, and reasoning. They must demonstrate the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, and integrate information from texts and informational graphics.
-
Standard English Conventions
Students will apply editing skills to ensure the text adheres to the conventions of Standard English, including sentence structure, usage, and punctuation.
-
Expression of Ideas
Students will be required to revise texts to enhance clarity and effectiveness, ensuring that the writing meets specific rhetorical goals.
SAT Digital Math Syllabus 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the SAT Digital Math syllabus for the upcoming exam:
SAT Math Testing Areas
Skill / Knowledge Testing Areas |
Weightage & Question Distribution |
Algebra |
Linear equations in one variable, linear equations in two variables, linear functions, systems of two linear equations in two variables, linear inequalities in one or two variables |
Advanced Math |
Equivalent expressions, nonlinear equations in one variable, systems of equations in two variables, nonlinear functions |
Problem-solving and Data Analysis |
Ratios, rates, proportional relationships, and units, percentages, one-variable data distributions and measures of center and spread, two-variable data models and scatterplots, probability and conditional probability, inference from sample statistics and margin of error, evaluating statistical claims: observational studies and experiments |
Geometry and Trigonometry |
Area and volume formulas, lines, angles, and triangles, right triangles and trigonometry, circles |
This is the standard syllabus for the SAT exam, covering both the Reading + Writing and Math sections as per the new Digital SAT format.
SAT Exam Preparation Tips 2025
Candidates can choose between self-study or attending coaching classes for SAT preparation. To perform well on the exam, here are some effective preparation tips:
- Start Early: Begin preparing as soon as possible. Create a study plan and stick to it.
- Familiarise with the Syllabus and Exam Pattern: Make sure you are well-versed with the SAT syllabus and exam format.
- Identify Weak Areas: Pinpoint areas where you’re struggling and focus on improving them.
- Create a Strategy: Develop a solid strategy and dedicate time each day for focused study.
- Utilise Free Resources: There are plenty of free SAT prep books available online. Take advantage of them to study at your own pace.
- Practice Mock Tests: Try as many mock tests as you can to get familiar with the exam format and timing.
The SAT syllabus has seen minimal changes, with a reduction in the number of questions and overall exam duration.
SAT 2025 Admit Card
SAT exam hall ticket can be downloaded only after the student completes his/her registration through the website of the College Board. Registration is done in two ways,
Register Online
-
The first step is to make a student profile on the College Board’s website.
-
Then the students can select any date and center they are comfortable with but only if that date and center are both available.
-
Students will receive an email immediately after completing their registration.
-
Then the students have to pay the examination fee with either a credit or debit card.
The last date to complete registration is more than often three or four weeks before the exam date. However, the registration may be done late and for late registration, the last date is two to three days before the exam date. A late fee will be charged in this scenario.
Register by Mail
-
The first thing you want to do is get ‘‘The Student Registration Guide for the SAT and SAT Subject Tests which may be available at schools.
-
The guide contains a registration form and an envelope for returning.
-
Students must send this form along with a demand draft of whatever is the registration fee at that time.
-
In India, the SAT is represented by the USIEF. These forms are to be sent to their regional office for further consideration.
Once the student completes the registration then he/she gets an email with a link to download the SAT admission ticket.
SAT Admission Ticket Details
An admission ticket is a necessary document to be carried by the students with the same information as on his/her identification card. The details are cross-checked by examiners before letting any student inside the exam hall. So, it is advised that the students should have the correct details on the admission ticket.
Some of those important details are,
Other than these, the Admission ticket must not be blurry and all the details must be displayed clearly. The admission ticket can either be black and white or colored. Also, the printed document must not have any ink stains or any other type of damage that hinders the display of any vital information. All the details are needed to be clear.
Admission Ticket Lost, What to do then
If a student loses his/her admission ticket then there is no need to worry. The admission ticket is just another copy of the ticket which is available on the student profile on the College Board website. Students can simply log in, download, and take a printout from there. This is why students must always remember the login credentials of their respective student profiles.
However, it is recommended to always keep a pdf file of your admission ticket on your mobile phone in case of any emergency.
How to change Admission Ticket Information
We are all human beings and it is in our nature to make mistakes and learn from them. The exam conducting body of SAT understands this and has given a very simple solution. Whenever a student wants to rectify any detail mentioned on their admission ticket then they need to follow these simple steps,
-
Sign in to their account on College Board’s website.
-
Click Print Admission Ticket.
-
Update the information as necessary.
-
Print the admission ticket.
SAT 2025 Result
Candidates who plan to appear for their SAT exam are required to keep the below dates in mind. Candidates are advised to complete their SAT Registration before the deadline to avoid any last-minute confusion. The expected SAT Score dates have also been published for the convenience of our readers.
SAT Score Report
SAT score reports consist of the following information
- The Total Score: As the title suggests, the Total Score is the sum of the two Section Scores and this score ranges from 400 to 1600.
- Sectional Score: The sectional score ranges from 200-800 and is based on the performance of the candidate on the Math Section and Evidence-Based Reading & Writing Sections.
- Subscore (marks scored in each type of question): Subscores are multiple points for Reading, Writing and Language, and Math Sections, all ranging from 1 to 15. The main purpose of Sub scores is to provide additional insight into the students’ performance.
- Essay score (if applicable): Candidates who have undertaken the SAT with the essay will have the scores for Essay Reading (2-8 points), Essay Writing (2-8 points), and Essay Analysis (2-8 points) displayed under the Essay Details tab.
- Student’s percentile: The student’s percentile score tells you how well the student has performed his SAT exam as compared to other test-takers.
How to check the SAT score?
Candidates can access the SAT score report on their College Board profile.
Steps to check SAT scores
- Step 1- Visit the College Board’s site
- Step 2- Sign in using your ID and password
- Step 3- Click on My Organiser and go to SAT scores
- Step 4- Click on Access My Scores and enter your username and password
- Step 5- Go to My Test Scores
- Step 6- Your SAT scores will appear on the screen
Candidates can send their score reports to the colleges using Score Choice.
How to Get SAT and Subject Test Scores?
Once you are finished with the SAT exam, it is time to send exam scores to the colleges. This is one of the most crucial parts of the whole application process. Most colleges prefer to get the score reports directly from the College Board and not the copies of the report or score report labels on the transcripts.
When to expect SAT Test Result?
Your SAT score result will be available online around 2-4 weeks after your test date. Once the score result is available, the College Board begins sending SAT score reports to the colleges the candidate has selected, if any, at the time of registration.
Other Ways to Get Scores
Students who don’t have easy access to the Internet can check out alternative methods of receiving their SAT Score, these include
- Paper Score Reports: Candidates who register by mail and don’t have active College Board online accounts will receive paper score reports.
- Scores by phone: Candidates can also receive their scores over the phone. However, they would be required to pay an extra fee for the same.
- Candidates can also access their scores by logging into their online score report and taking a printout of the same.
SAT Cutoff
SAT Cutoff varies from college to college. Each university has its own standard SAT cutoff so there is no specific cutoff. Hence the SAT cutoff solely depends on the college you are applying to. However, you can refer to the College Board prediction for the SAT Cutoff required to be accepted at different universities.
What is a Good SAT Score?
Out of 1600, 1500 is definitely a good SAT score and it can help the candidates to secure a place in the best universities. An SAT score of 1500 means the candidate has scored around the 98th percentile. The top institutes of the world like- Harvard, Yale University, MIT, accept SAT scores that range from 1440-1500.