Test Information and Dates

The new SAT test has a different format, is divided into three sections, and has a maximum composite score of 2400 instead of the old 1600.

New SAT Format:
  • Multiple-choice questions (grammar and usage)
  • Student-written essay
  • Analogies eliminated
  • Short reading passages added to existing long reading passages
  • Sentence Completions maintained
  • Math content expanded to include topics from third-year college preparatory math
  • Quantitative comparisons eliminated

Writing (800 points)

Critical Reading (800 points)

Math (800 points)


What does this mean to you and your child?

There are several consequences of the New SAT. Although nobody will truly know how the changes made to the SAT will affect students and their college admissions chances until the first year of administrations of the tests have occurred, we can make a few assumptions about the impact of the exam:

  • With a Math Section that now includes number and operations; algebra and functions; geometry; statistics, probability, and data analysis, it will be more important than ever for students to be exposed to higher levels of math in the secondary school curriculum (Algebra II at a minimum).
  • The new Writing Section will require students to be better prepared to write short, succinct essays on a variety of topics. This includes a familiarity and comfortability with the fundamental principles of essay writing.
  • A more comprehension-intensive Verbal Section will demand that students are able to read and understand passages of complex subject matter.


How We Can Help:

Ultimately, all these changes offer students taking the New SAT an opportunity to prove themselves. However, given the uncertainty of the New Test, advance preparation for the SAT is not only helpful, it may be crucial to success on the exam.

The LEARNING SHACK is currently offering classes to prepare for the SAT I and II and the ACT. Call today to reserve a spot!


For more information about the New SAT, visit the college board's website at http://www.collegeboard.com or call us at 949-646-6689.