SAT exam pattern comprises of two major sections – Evidence-based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math and an optional essay. Both sections, EBRW and Math, are scored on a range of 200-800. Even though optional, SAT essay score is required by a number of colleges during the application process. The score range for SAT Essay section is 2 to 8. 

• Both sections of EBRW questions are multiple-choice questions
• Math is divided into two sets of questions – one to be attempted without using a calculator and one with a calculator
• Most of the Mathematics questions are MCQs; some questions are grid-ins i.e. students must solve and fill in the answer on the bubble sheet
• The exam is 3 hours long. SAT with Essay is 3 hours and 50 minutes long.
• There is a time limit of 100 minutes to attempt EBRW and 80 minutes for Math.

SAT Exam Pattern Highlights

The below table provides an idea about the SAT test pattern. Candidates will get to know about the duration, number of questions, score range, and more.