SAT Exam Pattern & Syllabus 2015-2016 | SAT New Exam Pattern

Scholastic Aptitude Test aka SAT is an internationally recognized exam which is conducted for students who want to pursue secondary education in US-based universities and colleges. According to the SAT exam pattern 2015-2016, there are three sections: Mathematics, Critical Reading, and Writing. Based on the different interests of students, two types of SATs are conducted:

  • Scholastic Aptitude Reasoning Test
  • Scholastic Aptitude Subject Test

The following are the features of the SAT new exam pattern:

  • The duration of the whole test has been increased to 4 hours, including the essay.
  • The essay writing is given 50 minutes and is optional. The rest of the writing section is supposed to be completed within around 3 hours.
  • The maximum score that can be achieved by a student is 1600 without the essay score.
  • The essay fetches separate score.
  • Calculators are not allowed because the Math section would have no calculator segments only.
  • The test will be available in both paper and digital formats according to SAT 2016 exam pattern.
  • There will be two sections: a) Evidence-based Reading and Writing, and b) Math
  • There is no negative marking.

SAT 2016 exam syllabus is such that the whole SAT has become easier than ever. There will no more be any obscure vocabulary questions. The vocabulary will be tested on the basis of words used in daily conversation between two individuals on a professional level. The syllabus includes the topics taught in High School. Math section is focused on 3 areas:

  • Ratio, per cents, proportions
  • Linear equations and functions
  • Complex equations

Also, reading and writing sections would include graphs and tables. Essays would only be accepted if they have an existing argument and presentation of evidence. The content of reading passages will mainly include extracts from science, history, social studies, and literature. While answering passage questions, students will be required to provide specific evidence supporting the choice that they made.

One of the greatest changes in the exam pattern is the reduction of multiple options to four. Earlier, there used to be five choices which reduced the probability of choosing the right answer by 5%. Students can be all happy while appearing for the exam as SAT 2016 exam pattern has made it way easier than before. Also, since there is no negative marking, students are free to answer or guess the answers to questions without the fear of losing credit.

SAT 2016 exam schedule is as follows:

Test Date Normal Deadline Late Registration  Online Score Release
October 3, 2015 September 3, 2015 September 22, 2015 October 22, 2015
November 7, 2015 October 9, 2015 October 27, 2015 November 26, 2015
December 5, 2015 November 5, 2015 November 23, 2015 December 24, 2015
January 23, 2016 December 28, 2015 January 12, 2016 February 11, 2016
March 5, 2016* February 5, 2016 February 23, 2016 March 24, 2016
May 7, 2016 * April 8, 2016 April 26, 2016 May 26, 2016
June 4, 2016 * May 5, 2016 May 25, 2016 June 23, 2016

Since SAT has now gotten easier, it’ll be surely attracting more aspirants. All the best for your preparation.

Good luck.