Experts in the SAT I

The SAT changed format in March 2016 in response to the increased popularity of its main rival test, the ACT. The new changes to the SAT were sweeping: from three section scores in Reading, Writing, and Math, the test simplified to two: Math, and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing. The redesigned SAT introduced a No Calculator Math section with an emphasis on harder algebra, the Writing Test changed to passage-based editing like the ACT, and the Reading Test became more focused on evidence and data analysis. The essay also became optional and more geared towards the kind of textual analysis that students do at college.

Students receive a scaled score out of 800 in the two sections of Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, combining into a total score out of 1600. Students also receive three ‘test scores’ in Reading, Writing and Language, and Math, along with cross-test scores in Analysis in History/Social Science and Analysis in Science and various section sub-scores. The essay is graded out of 4 in three different areas: Reading, Analysis, and Writing. However, the most important score for the SAT is always the score out of 1600 as this is the main score in which colleges are interested.

The kinds of students who tend to do well on the SAT are those who are naturally fluent at algebra but may take a little longer to process textual information than other students. To find out which test suits you better, take our online diagnostic test , which calculates your suitability for the ACT or SAT based on a sophisticated algorithm that evaluates your speed and ability in each section.

At UES we were quick to develop bespoke materials for the redesigned SAT. We’ve developed a programme that takes students through all of the new topics on the SAT, including the harder algebra and data analysis questions. Our programme of SAT tutoring includes these materials, all of the available practice tests, and regular progress reports. To discuss how we can help you prepare for the SAT, please contact us .