What is the SAT?
The SAT is an examination which is commonly used by admissions officers at U.S. colleges and universities during the admissions process. It contains 160 multiple-choice questions across Critical Reading, Mathematics, and Writing together with with a short essay and 10 ‘grid-in’ Mathematics questions. The test takes 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete and demands both stamina and academic knowledge from students.
How is the SAT scored?
The SAT I is marked out of 2400 points (800 points for each of the main sections Critical Reading, Mathematics, and Writing), with only about 300 students annually receiving a ‘perfect score’ of 2400. While the knowledge tested by the examination is similar to that of GCSE examinations, the structure, pace, and style of the SAT I is very different from U.K. examinations. Many students require extensive practice and preparation in order to familiarise themselves with the SAT and earn the highest possible score. However, although the SAT I is only one piece of a student’s application to university in the U.S., it does contribute an important element to the overall picture of an individual’s academic ability and potential.
What are the SAT II subject tests?
In addition to the standard ‘Reasoning Test’ (SAT I), the College Board offers a series of subject tests, commonly referred to as SAT IIs. While approximately 80% of American universities require the SAT I, most elite U.S. institutions also require applicants to take one or more of the SAT IIs (Subject Tests). All eight Ivy League universities require two to three of these.
When should I take the SAT?
We recommend that students take the SAT at least two times, preferably once in the autumn of Lower Sixth and then again in the spring of Lower Sixth or the autumn of Upper Sixth. Remember, colleges and universities expect you to take the SAT more than once and do not view this as ‘resitting’ in the same way that it is viewed at A level.
How do I sign up to take the exam?
The College Board administers the SAT. More information about the exam and how to register can be found on their website.
What can I do to prepare?
Greene’s offers courses held in the centre of Oxford throughout the year which offer an introduction to the concepts which appear on the examination as well as strategies and tricks for tackling different types of questions. More information can be found here. We recommend students take a course at least 3 months before sitting the exam in order to give themselves time to review any concepts with which they are struggling.
When can I start a course?
Our group SAT preparation courses run throughout the year. We also offer individual courses of SAT preparation which can start whenever you are ready! Please contact us for more details.
Can you tell me more about Greene’s? Who are your tutors?
Greene’s has been preparing students for university admissions examinations and aptitude tests for over 45 years. Over the last five years, we have been able to offer SAT I preparation to increasing numbers of U.K. students who are seeking admission to U.S. universities. Our carefully selected and trained SAT tutors have sat the examination themselves, earning top marks, and now pass their knowledge and experience of the examination onto students through our SAT I preparation course and through our individual U.S. SAT preparation service.
How much do the courses cost?
For more information about the cost of all of our courses (both group and individual), please have a look at our Fees page.