how long is sat without essay

How Long Is the SAT?

Last Updated on April 20, 2023

The SAT booklet is the same length and width as standard U.S. Letter paper. So, the SAT is about 11 inches long (and 8.5 inches wide) … Ha!

Now that we’re all smiling, let’s dive into the two closely interrelated meanings of “How long is the SAT?” that you came here for:

Duration: How much time does the SAT take ?
Total volume: How many questions are on the SAT?

We’ll also touch on other factors related to SAT timing, including scheduled start time, breaks, and proctors’ warnings.

Here are the topics we’ll cover:

What is the total testing time, how long does the sat last, start to finish, how long will i spend in the test center.

What Warnings Will My Proctor Give?

When Should I Get to the Test Center?

Who completes the essay, what is the length of the sat with essay, what’s next.

Let’s start by taking a look at how long each section of the SAT is.

How Long Are the SAT Test Sections?

The 2022-2023 SAT will have four sections. As shown on the College Board website , the sections will always appear in the same order, with the following durations:

The total testing time for all four sections of the 2022-2023 SAT (without the essay)—for the test sections only, NOT counting breaks—is 180 minutes.

The total testing time for the 2022-2023 SAT (without the essay) is exactly 3 hours.

When Are the Breaks During the SAT?

There are two scheduled breaks between sections:

Between Sections 1 and 2 , the two verbal sections, you’ll get a 10-minute break .
Between Sections 3 and 4 , the two math sections , you’ll get a 5-minute break .

Pay attention to the designated areas where you need to stay during the SAT. During these two breaks, you’ll most likely be restricted to the testing area, restrooms, and the adjoining hallway. If you stray from the designated areas, or if you’re overheard discussing any part of the exam with others, you’ll be dismissed and your scores will be voided!

Including breaks, the 2022-2023 SAT will last 195 minutes, or 3 hours and 15 minutes.

This is definitely more of a marathon than a sprint! So, at home before the test, be sure to eat a nutritious, well-balanced meal that is rich in both protein and complex carbohydrates. (But don’t stuff yourself.) This type of meal will be the ideal breakfast to fuel your brain for the duration of the SAT, so you’re unlikely to ‘crash’ partway through the test or experience big swings in your alertness. A balanced breakfast can also help regulate your stress levels during the SAT .

From start to finish, including breaks, the 2022-2023 SAT lasts for 3 hours and 15 minutes.

The entire duration of your 2022-2023 SAT experience on test day will include the time needed for preliminary procedures: filling out your personal information on the answer sheet, signing and dating your forms, and going over rules and procedures with your proctor.

These initial formalities should take about half an hour, for a grand total of 3 hours and 45 minutes of closed-door time inside the test center.

Since you can be admitted up to 15 minutes early, you could be inside the test center for up to 4 hours.

How Can I Track Time During the SAT?

Your testing area should have at least one clock prominently displayed where you can easily see it without having to wheel around or crane your neck.

In addition, your proctor will issue a predetermined set of time cues out loud for all test-takers to hear.

What Time Warnings Will My Proctor Give?

Here is the entire slate of time cues that your proctor will be instructed to speak aloud.

SECTION 1: Reading (65 minutes)

At the beginning: Time starts now.

After 30 minutes: You have 35 minutes remaining in Section 1.

After 60 minutes: You have 5 minutes remaining in Section 1.

After 65 minutes: Please stop work and put your pencil down.

10-Minute Break

The proctor should post the clock time that ends the break, when testing will resume. The proctor will not be required to give any time cues out loud during the break.

SECTION 2: Writing & Language (35 minutes)

After 15 minutes: You have 20 minutes remaining in Section 2.

After 30 minutes: You have 5 minutes remaining in Section 2.

After 35 minutes: Please stop work and put your pencil down.

SECTION 3: Math, No Calculator (25 minutes)

After 10 minutes: You have 15 minutes remaining in Section 3.

After 20 minutes: You have 5 minutes remaining in Section 3.

After 25 minutes: Please stop work and put your pencil down.

5-Minute Break

The proctor should post the time when testing will resume. The proctor will not necessarily issue any cues aloud.

SECTION 4: Math, With Calculator (55 minutes)

After 25 minutes: You have 30 minutes remaining in Section 4.

After 50 minutes: You have 5 minutes remaining in Section 4.

After 55 minutes: Please stop work and put your pencil down.

Your proctor will issue spoken time warnings on the schedule above. These will be valuable no matter what, but especially if there is any issue with the clocks in your testing room.

For Saturday administrations of the 2022-2023 SAT, the doors at your test center will open by 7:45 AM. The doors will close at 8:00 AM sharp.

Don’t be late! If you arrive after the doors close, you’ll be turned away and your test will be canceled.

What About the Optional Essay?

The optional SAT essay of previous years is no more. The weekend administrations of the 2022-2023 SAT, on nationwide test dates, will not offer an essay section.

However, there is a small group of test-takers in certain states who will, in fact, see an essay on their 2022-2023 SAT. If you’re one of these test-takers, you’ll write the essay as an additional section, after you finish the four sections that make up the SAT without essay.

The only 2022-2023 SAT administrations with an essay will be given during school hours, in states that have adopted the SAT as part of their mandatory statewide 11th grade public-school assessment testing. These states are Colorado, Delaware, Illinois, Michigan, New Hampshire, and Oklahoma.

If you’re a rising junior at a public high school in one of these states, you’ll take the SAT with essay at school sometime in March or April 2023. If that’s you, please check with your high school guidance counselor or your college admissions advisor for exact test dates and times.

If you’re one of the “chosen few” who will take the 2022-2023 SAT with essay, you’ll have all the same timings and proctor cues as above, plus an additional 2-minute break and a 50-minute period during which to plan and write your essay.

Therefore, for these in-school administrations, the following times apply:

The total testing time will be 230 minutes (3 hours and 50 minutes).
The total duration from start to finish will be 247 minutes (4 hours and 7 minutes).
Your total time spent inside the testing area will be at least 277 minutes (4 hours and 37 minutes).

Good luck, and enjoy your test prep!

Now that you know everything about SAT testing time, check out some tips for motivating yourself to study for the SAT .

About The Author

Ron is an inveterate strategist who has always delighted in discovering ‘hacks’ in every corner of his life—cracking standardized tests, charting optimal routes through Southern California's infamous traffic, finding and negotiating bargains, tweaking his own diet and sleep patterns, and more. And in his very first teaching job, back in high school sharing SAT strategies with his own classmates, Ron found the same passion for paying his accumulated knowledge forward. Since those days, Ron has taught in high-school and college classrooms, coached youth track-and-field athletes, and, of course, made a career in test preparation. Ron enjoys long trips on the open road; a bewildering variety of music, from classical to hip-hop to forró to electrocumbia; sharp, well-fitted, and slightly idiosyncratic outfit choices, on himself and others alike; 105-115ºF (40-45ºC) summer days with endless sunshine; and, most of all, building a life with his wife, muse, and kindred spirit, Sarah.

How Long Is the SAT? 2023 Ultimate Guide

Aaron • Last updated on January 4, 2023

Are you planning to take the SAT soon?

Before taking the exam, it is essential for you to know the SAT time limit as this is an essential part of your test preparation. In taking the SAT, you need to know more than just how to answer the questions and score high. It’s also crucial that you learn strategies for time management and pacing.

In this SAT time breakdown, we will answer the question: How long is the SAT test? We will identify the SAT time per section and how you can use the time to answer the test more efficiently.

How long does the SAT take?

The SAT has three sections: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. The Math section consists of 2 tests: with a calculator and without. The SAT test length is 180 minutes or 3 hours, excluding the time for breaks.

The optional Essay section, on the other hand, runs for 50 minutes.

Below is the detailed breakdown of the times per SAT section:

What time does the SAT start?

The SAT begins around 8:30 to 9:00 am, depending on how long the preliminary procedure and reading of instructions will take. The testing center doors open at 7:45 am and close at exactly 8 am.

Once you get inside the testing room, your electronic devices (except your calculator) and your bag will first be collected by the proctor. As soon as everyone is settled down and seated, the test materials are then distributed and the instructions read.

Breaks during the SAT

Students need to take a break, especially during an intense and lengthy exam like the SAT. How long is the SAT with breaks included?

The first break is 10 minutes long and will take place between the Reading section and the Writing and Language section. The next break, which is 5 minutes, will be between the two Math sections.

For those taking the Essay section, a 2-minute break will be given after the Math test.

Here is the SAT test time breakdown including the breaks:

You can use the breaks to leave the room, eat a snack, or use the restroom.

Most testing centers include an additional experimental section as the last section on the SAT ( 1 ). This is for pretesting purposes. Do not worry much about it, though, for this section is NOT counted in the scoring process.

When will you finish the SAT?

The SAT time length is 3 hours and the breaks run for 15 minutes total. If you take the Essay section, you should finish between 12:15 and12:45 pm, depending on the time spent on the preliminary procedure and reading of instructions. If you are taking the Essay section, you should finish between 1:00 and 1:30 pm.

Once your exam has concluded, the proctor will return your electronic devices and bag.

How can you prepare for the lengthy SAT?

If you choose to take the Essay section, the SAT would take you nearly 4 hours to finish it. This is pretty long and will feel even longer when you’re nervous. What are the things that you can do to prepare for the long and intense SAT and to keep anxiety at bay?

Answer full-length practice tests

One of the most effective ways to prepare for the SAT is to answer full-length practice tests ( 2 ). These will help you get a good grasp of the actual test structure. Also, you will learn how to manage your time properly and efficiently so you can answer all the questions within the given timeframe.

In answering SAT practice tests, it would be better to use official practice tests provided by the College Board. This is because the questions are similar to those of the actual standardized test.

You should also answer newly released official practice tests. Doing so will give you an idea of the latest structure and flow.

Time yourself

When answering a full-length practice test, time yourself. Now that you know how much time is allocated per section and the entire SAT, you can pace yourself accordingly. It is also recommended that you take breaks just like during the actual SAT.

Timing yourself during the practice test will let you know how fast you can answer a certain section. If you find the allotted time insufficient, you can make adjustments to your answering process beforehand.

With the given SAT test time and the number of questions per section, you will be able to calculate the average time per question, in which you can pattern your pace.

Here is the average time you per question in each section:

Put into practice, you will be able to answer the SAT more efficiently.

Time management on the SAT

Say, you are answering the actual SAT, how are you going to manage your time?

According to US News ( 3 ), one of the most effective ways to take the SAT is to answer the easy questions first. Then, you can go back to the harder ones later. This way, you can allot more time to the more difficult questions.

Experts also suggest that you use a watch to monitor your pace. Knowing the time given per section, you will be able to manage your time better.

Stamina will also play a huge role in the SAT. The old SAT consisted of 10 small sections. In today’s standardized admissions test, subjects are distributed into four large sections. In answering questions in each section, it will be important for you to not only answer the questions quickly but to also keep the same pace throughout the test.

Final thoughts

Now that you know how long the SAT takes, you can prepare for the test more efficiently and effectively. Being aware of the breakdown of the SAT exam time is going to be important for you. The SAT is a lengthy test, but always remember to stay relaxed and confident. Aside from your knowledge of concepts and theories, your time management will be crucial in attaining your goals on the SAT.

https://blog.prepscholar.com/what-is-the-sat-experimental-section
https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/practice/full-length-practice-tests
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/2019-02-22/how-long-the-sat-is-and-how-to-manage-that-time

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How Long is the SAT? Your Top Timing Strategies

Featured Expert: Alexia Olguin, University of Pennsylvania

How long is the SAT? Understanding the test's structure and duration is vital to getting a good SAT score . We provide a comprehensive guide on how long the SAT is, how its time is distributed across sections, and strategies for optimizing your speed and performance. Remember, achieving a top SAT score isn't just about studying hard; it's also about understanding the test's structure and planning your approach accordingly. And if you’re still wondering whether you should write the SAT or ACT , this article will help you make this decision.

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Article Contents 11 min read

How long is the sat what content is covered.

While the SAT is slowly releasing its hold on post-secondary institutions (even the easiest Ivy League schools to get into made their admissions test-optional), it is still quite widely used in college admissions in the US. This standardized test claims to measure your literacy, numeracy, and writing skills — all of which are deemed essential for academic success in college.

The total duration of the SAT is 3 hours (180 minutes) for the main sections. However, if you choose to take the optional Essay section, the test lasts 3 hours and 50 minutes.

The main sections of the SAT are Evidence-Based SAT Reading , Writing and Language , and SAT Math , which is further split into sections with and without a calculator. The Essay section, if taken, is the last part of the test.

Want to know how to make your college essay stand out and what do you need to avoid? Watch this video:

SAT Sections

The SAT is composed of various sections, each with its unique set of guidelines, types of questions, and allotted time. Understanding these components is vital as it helps you devise a plan for each section and manage your time effectively during the test. Here, we will explore each section in detail, discussing the number of questions, the academic disciplines each covers, and what each section aims to assess.

Reading Section

The Reading Section of the SAT consists of 52 questions to be answered in 65 minutes. This section aims to test your reading comprehension skills. The questions are based on five passages, which include one literature passage, two science passages, one historical document, and two social science passages. Here's a closer look at what the Reading section comprises:

Academic Disciplines:

Social sciences (such as economics, psychology, and sociology)
Natural sciences (such as biology, chemistry, and physics)
U.S. and World Literature
U.S. Founding Documents or a text in the Great Global Conversation

The Reading section is claimed to test your ability to:

Understand words and phrases in context
Understand the purpose and main idea of a passage
Understand relationships between parts of a text
Identify the author's argument or claim
Interpret data and information presented in different formats, such as tables or graphs

The Writing and Language Section consists of 44 questions, which need to be completed in 35 minutes. All questions in this section are multiple-choice and are based on passages.

Social studies

The Writing and Language section is claimed to test your ability to:

Understand grammar rules and conventions in English
Understand words in context
Analyze and edit passages at the sentence and paragraph level
Understand the development, organization, and effective language use in written English

Math Section

The Math Section is divided into two components: one that allows calculator use (38 questions, 55 minutes) and one that doesn’t (20 questions, 25 minutes). The questions in this section are both multiple-choice and grid-in types.

Problem-solving and Data Analysis
Advanced Math
Additional Topics (geometry, trigonometry, and complex numbers)

The Math section is claimed to test your ability to:

Understand mathematical concepts and apply mathematical principles to solve problems
Interpret and analyze data to solve problems
Understanding the structure of expressions and being able to analyze, manipulate, and rewrite these expressions

Essay (Optional)

The Essay section, though optional, is recommended for students applying to colleges that require an SAT essay score. You have 50 minutes to read a passage and analyze how the author built an argument in the provided text.

This section is claimed to test your ability to:

Comprehend a source text
Analyze how the author builds a persuasive argument
Write a clear and coherent essay that deconstructs an argument

Time management plays a crucial role in achieving a high score on the SAT. With a limited timeframe to answer a vast array of questions, strategic planning is key. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time during the test:

1. Practice in a Timed Environment

Familiarizing yourself with the SAT's timing structure can significantly reduce stress on the actual test day. Take several practice tests under the same time constraints you'll face during the SAT, in the same kind of environment. This will help you understand the pacing of the test and gauge how long you can spend on each question. By doing this regularly, you'll gradually increase your speed and efficiency.

2. Strategic Ordering

There's no rule stating you must answer the questions in the order they're presented. A strategic approach would be to first tackle the questions you find easy or are confident about, then move on to the more difficult ones. This method ensures you garner as many points as possible within a short time and prevents you from getting stuck on a challenging question early on.

3. Figure Out Your Answer Before Looking at the Multiple-Choice Options

For multiple-choice questions, try to come up with your answer before looking at the provided options. This strategy can prevent you from being swayed by incorrect answers that may appear plausible at first glance. Once you have your answer, you can look at the options and select the one that best matches. This way, you're relying on your knowledge rather than guesswork.

Strategies for Improving Passage Analysis in SAT Reading Section

Mastering the art of passage analysis is essential for performing well in the SAT Reading section. It involves understanding the main points, identifying significant details, interpreting the author's purpose, and making logical inferences. Below are three strategies that could enhance your passage analysis skills:

1. Highlighting

While going through a passage, it is beneficial to highlight or underline key phrases, arguments, or points of view. This strategy helps keep track of the central theme, main characters, or any shifts in tone or perspective throughout the passage. However, avoid over-highlighting. Try to mark only critical details that contribute directly to the main point or theme of the passage. This way, when you need to refer back to the passage for a question, you can quickly identify the relevant information.

2. Contextualizing the Information

When you read a passage, try to understand it within its broader context. This means considering who the author is, the potential audience, the historical or social setting, and the overall purpose of the text. Pay attention to any given information about the source of the passage. All these factors can influence the message, tone, and language of the passage. Moreover, understanding the context can also help you infer the meanings of unfamiliar words or phrases.

3. What Should I Do If I Don’t Understand the Passage?

It's possible that you'll encounter complex or challenging passages on the SAT. When this happens, don't panic or waste too much time trying to understand every detail. Start by identifying the main idea of the passage. If necessary, reread the first and last sentences of each paragraph, as these often contain the core arguments. Break down complex sentences into smaller parts, and try to understand each part. Then, move on to the questions. Many times, the questions will guide you back to the specific details or parts of the passage that are crucial for answering them. Lastly, practice reading a variety of texts, including historical documents, scientific reports, and literary pieces, to familiarize yourself with different writing styles and structures.

Strategies for Improving Your Speed in SAT Writing and Language Section

The SAT Writing and Language section demands a balance between speed and accuracy. It consists of 44 questions that must be answered within 35 minutes, which equates to less than a minute per question. Hence, improving your speed without sacrificing precision is crucial. Below are some strategies to help you boost your pace:

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Question Types

The SAT Writing and Language section primarily tests your understanding of grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and argument development. By understanding the types of questions you'll face, you can quickly identify what each question is asking and avoid wasting time trying to figure it out. Practice frequently with sample questions to get the hang of each type.

2. Read Actively and Purposefully

Instead of reading the entire passage first, read the relevant sentence or surrounding sentences for each question. Look for grammatical errors, awkward phrasing, or inconsistencies in the information provided. Reading actively allows you to stay focused and pick up the needed information quickly.

3. Answer Questions in Order

The questions in the SAT Writing and Language section are generally in the order of the passage. Answering questions sequentially can save time since it enables a smooth, logical flow of reading without needing to jump back and forth in the passage.

4. Use the Process of Elimination

Often, it's easier to identify the wrong answers than the correct one. Eliminate options that are clearly incorrect due to grammatical errors, redundancy, inconsistency with the passage, or other discernible reasons. This narrows down your choices and speeds up the decision-making process.

5. Trust Your Initial Judgment

Your first instinct is often correct, especially if you've prepared well. If an answer choice seems right immediately, it probably is. Don't waste time second-guessing yourself unless you have a good reason to do so.

6. Practice under Timed Conditions

Regular practice under timed conditions can significantly improve your speed. It can help you get used to the pace of the test, understand how much time you can afford for each question, and learn to make quicker decisions.

Strategies for Improving Your Speed in the SAT Math Section

The SAT Math section demands precision and speed. You need to answer 58 questions in 80 minutes, which equates to about 1.5 minutes per question. Here are some tips that can help you increase your pace without compromising accuracy:

1. Master Key Math Concepts

The SAT Math section tests specific math concepts, such as algebra, problem-solving and data analysis, geometry, and some trigonometry. Familiarize yourself with these topics. The better your understanding, the faster you will be able to identify and use the correct strategies to solve problems.

2. Know Your Formulas

While the SAT provides some formulas at the start of the Math section, it doesn't include all the formulas you might need. Memorize commonly used formulas that aren't provided so you won't waste time trying to recall them during the test.

3. Understand the Question

SAT Math questions often contain extra information or are worded in ways that make them seem more complex than they are. Take the time to understand what is being asked before jumping into calculations. This can save you from time-consuming mistakes.

4. Develop Mental Math Skills

Practice doing simple calculations in your head to save time. The less you rely on a calculator for basic operations, the faster you can solve problems.

5. Use Your Calculator Wisely

While a calculator is a useful tool, it can also be a time sink if not used strategically. Use your calculator for complex calculations but rely on your mental math skills for simpler ones.

6. Practice Grid-In Questions

The SAT includes "grid-in" questions where you calculate the answer and fill it in on a grid. These questions can be time-consuming because they require manual entry of answers. Practice these types of questions so you can do them more quickly on test day.

7. Skip Difficult Questions

Don't spend too much time on a single difficult question. Instead, skip it and move on to the next question. You can return to it later if you have time.

8. Regular Timed Practice

The more you practice under timed conditions, the better you'll get at managing your time. Use practice tests to gauge your speed and figure out where you need to improve.

Writing the optional essay on the SAT can be a daunting task, especially with the time constraint. You have 50 minutes to read a 650-750 word passage, analyze the author's argument, and write an essay. Here are some strategies to help you improve your speed:

1. Understand the Task

You're not being asked to agree or disagree with the author's argument, but to analyze how they build their argument. Understanding this can save you time as you won't spend time crafting your own argument.

2. Read Actively

As you read the passage, underline or mentally note persuasive elements such as evidence, reasoning, and stylistic or persuasive devices used by the author. This will save you time when you start writing your analysis.

3. Plan Your Essay

Spend some time planning your essay before you start writing. Identify your thesis statement and the examples you'll use to support it. A clear plan will make your writing more efficient.

4. Practice Writing by Hand

If you're not used to writing by hand, it can slow you down on test day. Practice writing essays by hand to improve your speed and ensure your hand doesn't get too tired during the actual test.

5. Be Concise

Avoid unnecessary verbosity. Being concise in your writing will help you cover more points in less time.

6. Practice Under Timed Conditions

Like with every other section of the SAT, practice makes perfect. Regularly practice writing SAT-style essays under timed conditions. Over time, this will help you get a sense of how much you can write within the allocated time and improve your writing speed.

7. Proofread, if Time Allows

If you have time, quickly read through your essay to correct any obvious mistakes. But don't spend too much time on this. It's better to have a fully developed, slightly flawed essay than an incomplete but flawless one.

How to Prepare for the Test Day?

Preparing for the SAT involves more than just studying the content; it also requires logistical and mental preparation. Here are some key tips:

Plan Your Test Day: Know the location of your test center, its distance from your home, and the time it takes to reach there. This planning can help prevent last-minute stress.
Get a Good Night's Sleep: It's essential to be well-rested for the test. A good night's sleep can significantly enhance your performance.
Pack Essential Items: Pack all necessary items, such as your admission ticket, photo ID, pencils, erasers, calculator, snacks, and a watch (without an audible alarm), the night before the test to avoid rushing on the morning of the test.
Stay Calm and Confident: Maintaining a positive mindset is critical. Even if you encounter challenging questions, stay calm, use your strategies, and do your best.

Knowing what to expect on the day of your SAT test can significantly reduce stress and enable you to perform at your best. In addition to the academic preparations, familiarize yourself with the procedures and regulations that will be enforced on test day.

Test Center Closings

Stay updated on any test center closings leading up to your test day. Check the center's website on the morning of your test to ensure it hasn't closed or relocated.

Arrival and Entry

Test centers open their doors at 7:45 a.m. Arrival after 8 a.m. will result in denial of entry. If you're late or absent, consider rescheduling instead of re-registering as it is often cheaper. Ensure you arrive prepared with all necessary items.

Testing Process

Testing begins between 8:30 and 9 a.m. The proctor will assign seats and read instructions from a manual. They can only answer procedural questions, not those about test content. Work within the time constraints for each section, without skipping ahead or returning to previous sections. Once the test is complete, wait for the proctor to collect and account for all test materials before you are dismissed. Remember, your test experience may differ from those around you due to variations in test book sections.

Usually, there are two breaks during the test: one for 10 minutes and another for 5 minutes. These are the only times you can consume food and drinks. Keep your ID and admission ticket with you at all times. All test materials must remain on your desk during breaks, and you cannot use break times to use electronic devices, as doing so could result in score cancellation.

Testing typically concludes around noon.

Electronic Devices

It's essential to respect rules around mobile phones and other electronic devices. Violation of these policies may result in immediate dismissal, score cancellation, or both.

Remember the following:

Test administrators may collect and hold prohibited devices during the test, including during breaks.
If your device makes noise, or if you are seen using it or attempting to access it at any time, you risk immediate dismissal, score cancellation, and the possible confiscation of your device.
The College Board is not liable for loss or damage to personal items, including electronic devices, at the test center.

The SAT test lasts a total of 3 hours without the essay and 3 hours 50 minutes with the essay, including breaks.

The time allotted for each SAT section is 65 minutes for Reading, 35 minutes for Writing and Language, 25 minutes and 55 minutes for Math (with two separate sections), and 50 minutes for the optional Essay.

Improving your speed during the SAT involves knowing the format of the test, practicing time management strategies, identifying your strengths and weaknesses, and completing practice questions under timed conditions.

Preparing for SAT test day involves familiarizing yourself with the format and timing of the SAT, practicing with sample tests, getting a good night's sleep, eating a healthy breakfast, and ensuring you arrive at the testing center with plenty of time to spare.

Yes, scheduled breaks are built into the SAT. There is one 10-minute and one 5-minute break during the test.

If you don't finish a section in the given time, you will have to move on to the next one. Unanswered questions can negatively impact your score, so it's crucial to manage your time effectively.

Yes, you are allowed to bring a watch to the test center. However, the watch cannot have a separate timing device, cannot make noise, and cannot be a smartwatch.

Effective time management strategies include: understanding the test format, prioritizing questions, practicing pacing, using the process of elimination, and not spending too much time on a single question.

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Time pressure can bring out your worst instincts as an SAT test-taker. After all, how often on a high school English or Math test do you have one minute or less to answer a question?

Learn how to budget your time on each section of the SAT , and get the pacing tips you need for the score of your dreams.

How Long Does the SAT Take?

The SAT clocks in at 3 hours (3 hours and 15 minutes with breaks). And if you choose to sign up for the optional essay , the SAT takes 3 hours and 50 minutes to complete (or 4 hours, 5 minutes with breaks).

SAT Test Length by Section

How are those 3 hours broken up by section? Here’s what your SAT test day schedule looks like:

Tips for SAT Pacing

Are you ready for your SAT date ? The biggest mistake many test-takers make is to spend too little time on the easy and medium questions, and too much time on the hard ones. The problem with this approach is that if you rush through the easy and medium questions, you are almost certain to make a few careless mistakes. Here are the pacing steps that will help you improve your score.

1. Slow Down, Score More

You’re not scored on how many questions you do . You’re scored on how many questions you answer correctly . Doing fewer questions can mean more correct answers overall!

2. Mimic the Real Thing

When you take practice tests, time yourself exactly as you will be timed on the real SAT. Develop a sense of how long 35 minutes is, for example, and how much time you can afford to spend on cracking difficult problems. If you know ahead of time what to expect, you won’t be as nervous.

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3. Don’t Get Bogged Down on the Tough Questions

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When it comes to the SAT, few factors are as important as time. From carefully scheduled prep work to pacing yourself in each section of the test, you’ll be paying a lot of attention to time as it pertains to your SAT. You’ll even need to consider the exact timing of your test date, to ensure you’re there when you need to be without any hassles.

Don’t miss this post to learn more about how long the SAT takes, what time it starts, and when to arrive at the SAT testing center.

How Long is the SAT? How About Each Section of the SAT?

*Note that there is an informal 2-minute break between the Math and optional Essay sections.

What Time Do I Need to Arrive for the SAT?

Punctuality is a necessity when it comes to SAT day. If you arrive late, you won’t be allowed in, so you need to know exactly when the cutoff is.

The good news is that the SAT is always administered at the same local time, so you can always expect to have the same check-in time, no matter what time zone you’re in. The CollegeBoard recommends that you arrive at your testing center no later than 7:45AM.

It’s a better idea to get there even earlier, though, to account for any lines or registration snafus. We recommend that you aim to be there by 7:30 to avoid any last minute rushes, which might lead to anxiety. To learn more about test taking anxiety and how you can beat it, check out our post 10 Ways to Overcome Test Taking Anxiety . Things do come up however, so just know that doors to testing rooms close at 8:00AM.

What Time Does the SAT Start?

The exact time that you begin taking your SAT is never determined in advance. Instead, it varies according to how long it takes each testing center to complete registration, seat students, and distribute testing materials.

Most SATs begin between 8:30-9:00AM. Once testing has begun, students will no longer be admitted.

What Time Does the SAT End?

There may not be a strict start time, but once testing begins, timing becomes very rigid. The entire test takes three hours to complete without the optional essay, or three hours and 50 minutes with the optional essay, not including breaks.

Remember, the time that the test actually begins can vary slightly from one center to another, and this determines when your test will end. Allowing time for 15 minutes of formal breaks and another couple of minutes for reading directions between each section, you can expect to finish the SAT without essay anytime between 11:45AM and 12:30PM.

If you choose to complete the essay, you’ll stay for another 50 minutes to complete this section. As such, students writing the optional essay can expect to finish up between 12:30 and 1:30PM.

How to Plan Ahead for SAT Test Day

It’s a good idea to let your SAT be your only commitment on testing day to allay any concerns about what time your test ends or any other schedule constraints.

The first step to success on SAT day is getting out of bed. Seriously, though, you need to make sure you have an alarm set and a backup plan, like asking your parents to wake you if you aren’t up by your set time.

To figure out exactly what time this should be, work back from an ideal ETA of 7:30AM at the testing center. Account for the time it will take you to get to the testing center (and allow a buffer for traffic or detours just to be safe), and consider how much time you’ll need to get up, dressed, fed, and out the door.

Packing your backpack can be done the night before your exam. To learn more about what you need to pack, check out our post What Should I Bring to My SAT? .

Time Management Strategies for the SAT

Use the two-passes strategy for difficult questions — meaning that you’ll answer the easier questions first, before going back to tackle the more challenging ones. (After the first pass, skip the question and mark it to return to later.)
If you can’t eliminate even one answer, just guess. There’s no longer a penalty for guessing, so you won’t lose points. The frequency of responses is roughly evenly distributed, so it’s a good idea to keep using the same letter for answers that require blind guessing, because then you’re likely to be correct around 25 percent of the time.
Review the directions and format thoroughly before the test. That way, you won’t have to waste time familiarizing yourself with the test on the day of, when time is of the essence.
Wear a watch. You won’t be able to have your phone out during the test, so having a watch handy will help you keep track of time.
Practice, practice, practice. Do so using the same time constraints as the ones you’ll have to face on test. The more you practice using these limits, the more comfortable you’ll be with the actual exam.

Check out How to Pace Yourself on Every Section of the SAT for more time-management strategies.

What to Do if You Run Out of Time

If you’re at risk of running out of time, make sure you’ve tackled as many of the questions you know you can answer without much difficulty first. As you go along, if you really have no idea about the answer to a question, guess immediately. If you can eliminate one or more responses, then write down a possible answer and mark the question to return to later.

Keep careful track of the ones you skip (if you don’t, you’ll risk filling in your answer sheet incorrectly, which could be disastrous). Pay attention to the time warnings, and when you’re nearing the end of the test, go back and guess on the remaining questions. Remember to guess the same letter consistently if you really have no idea on a question; guess the same letter each time gives you a higher chance of getting the answer right (25%) than picking a different letter every question.

For additional tips about the night before and day of the exam, check out our post How to Prepare for the SAT: A 24-Hour Countdown .

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How Long the SAT Is and How to Manage That Time

The college admissions test is three hours long and divided into three sections.

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Students have 1 minute and 10 seconds per question, but some problems on the SAT exam are more difficult and may require additional time.

For some students, the SAT may seem like it lasts forever, but the exam actually lasts three hours.

That time doesn't include one 10-minute break and one five-minute break. Experts say that how time is managed on each section is key to earning a high score.

"Don't think the clock is your enemy; you need to know how to work it," says Jed Applerouth, founder and president of Georgia-based Applerouth Tutoring Services LLC, which offers SAT prep as one of its services.

The test consists of three sections: reading, writing and language, and math. The 65-minute reading section is comprised of 52 multiple-choice questions; the writing and language section that lasts 35 minutes has 44 multiple-choice questions; and the 80-minute math test features 58 questions, 45 of which are multiple-choice and 13 that require a student-produced response.

Until recently, the SAT included an optional essay that added another 50 minutes. The essay, which experts note wasn't widely required by colleges, will no longer be available after June. Optional subject tests that each take an hour to complete have also been cut, though international students will still be able to take them in May and June.

While the majority of colleges were no longer requiring the SAT essay , many students still opted in. According to data from the College Board, which administers the SAT, 57% of nearly 2.2 million test-takers from the class of 2020 completed the essay. That number was higher in the prior year, which unlike 2020 wasn't marked by mass test date cancellations prompted by the coronavirus pandemic. For the class of 2019, 64% of the more than 2.2 million students who took the SAT that year completed the essay.

Dropping the optional essay will likely benefit students, some test prep experts say.

"Eliminating the SAT essay will save students time: preparation time, practice time, and time on official administrations. That will benefit students," Applerouth says. "Students will no longer need to save as much time on a Saturday to give to testing. They'll be getting an hour of their day back each time they have a practice or official test. That is meaningful. And shorter tests require less mental stamina."

Additionally, Applerouth says, "eliminating SAT subject tests will simply save students time and energy they would have invested in preparation and practice. This simplifies preparation and the testing calendar."

Time Management on the SAT

Part of a successful test strategy, experts say, includes knowing how much time should be spent on each question. Students have an average of about 1 minute and 10 seconds per question, but some problems on the SAT exam are more difficult and may take longer.

"You should allocate your time toward answering those easy questions that you can knock out first, and then go back to the hard questions, which you can answer later, which involves more time allocation," says Mai Jumamil, former director of college prep programs at New York-based Kaplan Test Prep. "You have to sort out these types of questions that you're answering, understand the difficulty level and be able to answer accordingly with that time constraint."

Experts caution students against spending too much time at the beginning of each section and not leaving enough for later questions.

"I think they are spending too much time early on second-guessing themselves, going back and forth, and before they know it, they've lost that time," says Joe Korfmacher, director of college counseling at Collegewise, an admissions consulting company headquartered in California.

For time-strapped students, one option is to simply guess in order to answer as many questions as possible. While not an ideal scenario, Korfmacher notes that the SAT no longer has a guessing penalty , which may allow students to raise their scores slightly when they are running out of time.

Applerouth also advises test-takers to learn their natural pacing. With practice, he says, students can learn how long it takes them to answer questions and be able to gauge when a minute or so has passed.

"Your watch is definitely one of your key tools to help with time management," Applerouth says.

Keep in mind, however, test-day restrictions such as a ban on devices that can be used to record, transmit, receive or play back content. The College Board lists restrictions on smartwatches and other prohibited materials on its Test Day Checklist webpage .

Other advice offered by the College Board includes what to bring, what to expect and when to arrive. According to the College Board website, test center doors open at 7:45 a.m. and testing begins between 8:30 and 9 a.m. Dismissal is typically around noon.

How to Get Ready for Test Day

Outside of test-taking and time-management strategies, experts say other factors can influence a student's SAT score.

A common performance handicap for busy high school students? Lack of sleep, test-prep pros say.

"It's essential that students get enough sleep because that is going to affect their ability to sustain that focus for that period of time," Applerouth says.

He adds that high school students aren't typically asked to lock into one task for three hours. Success, he says, often requires several rounds of practice tests to develop the endurance to focus for that long.

"A lot of the practice is building that cognitive muscle to stay focused," Applerouth says.

Another overlooked factor that can lower an SAT score ? Hunger. Applerouth encourages students to bring a snack to enjoy during each break to keep their energy and glucose levels up, which will help them power through the long exam.

Keeping stress levels down is also important, says Korfmacher, who has heard of students using meditation and other calming techniques. Students should remain relaxed and confident, he says, knowing that they have prepared well for the exam.

"I tell my kids that half the battle is to just believe in yourself," Korfmacher says.

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Your Guide: How Long is the SAT Without Essay?

Are you wondering about the duration of the SAT without the essay section? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the length of the SAT, its sections, and effective preparation strategies. Taking the SAT is an important step in your academic journey, and understanding the timing and structure of the test can help you maximize your performance. Let’s dive in!

The SAT without the essay section is approximately 3 hours long, excluding breaks.
The test consists of three main sections: reading, writing and language, and math.
The reading section is 65 minutes, the writing and language section is 35 minutes, and the math section varies depending on whether a calculator is allowed.
The essay section is optional and adds an additional 50 minutes to the test duration.
Time management is crucial; prioritize easier questions first and utilize guessing strategies as there is no longer a penalty for guessing.

Now that you have a general understanding of the SAT duration without the essay section, let’s delve deeper into each section and explore effective strategies for success. By familiarizing yourself with the format and optimizing your time management skills, you can approach the SAT with confidence and achieve your desired results. Let’s get started!

Understanding the SAT Format

The SAT without the essay section lasts approximately 3 hours, excluding breaks, and features different sections with specific time allocations for reading, writing and language, and math. Let’s take a closer look at each section of the exam to understand the duration and format.

Reading Section:

The reading section of the SAT without the essay is 65 minutes long and consists of 52 questions. It assesses your reading comprehension skills through a variety of passages, such as literary fiction, social sciences, and natural sciences. The questions test your ability to analyze, interpret, and draw inferences from the given information.

Writing and Language Section:

The writing and language section allows 35 minutes for you to answer 44 questions. This section evaluates your ability to identify grammatical errors, improve sentence structure, and revise passages for clarity and coherence. It covers topics like grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills necessary for effective writing.

Math Sections:

The math portion of the SAT is divided into two sections: one without a calculator and the other with a calculator. The section without a calculator gives you 25 minutes to solve 20 questions, testing your ability to apply mathematical concepts and solve problems without the aid of a calculator. The section with a calculator provides 55 minutes to answer 38 questions, allowing you to use a calculator for more complex calculations.

These sections provide a breakdown of the SAT without the essay, highlighting the time limits and question counts. It is essential to manage your time effectively during the test to ensure you complete each section within the allocated duration.

To optimize your performance, prioritize answering easier questions first and allocate sufficient time for more challenging ones. Remember, there is no longer a penalty for guessing, so make sure to answer as many questions as possible. Preparing for the SAT with practice tests, understanding the test format, and getting enough rest are all key factors in performing well.

In the next section, we will delve into the reading section of the SAT without the essay, providing tips and strategies to tackle this part of the exam effectively.

Breakdown of the Reading Section

The reading section of the SAT without the essay consists of 65 minutes and includes 52 questions, testing your comprehension and critical analysis skills. This section evaluates your ability to understand and interpret various types of texts, such as passages from literature, social sciences, and natural sciences. It also assesses your ability to draw inferences, analyze arguments, and identify main ideas and supporting evidence.

During this section, you will encounter different question formats, including multiple-choice questions and passage-based questions. The passage-based questions require you to refer back to specific parts of the text to answer questions accurately. It is crucial to read the passages carefully and actively engage with the content to grasp the author’s main points and arguments.

To excel in the reading section, it is advisable to practice reading and analyzing complex texts regularly. Developing strong reading comprehension skills and effective strategies, such as skimming and scanning, can significantly improve your performance. Remember to manage your time wisely, as pacing yourself is essential to complete all the questions within the given time frame.

Key Takeaways:

The reading section of the SAT without the essay lasts for 65 minutes and contains 52 questions.
You need to demonstrate your comprehension and critical analysis skills.
Practice actively engaging with various types of texts to improve your performance.
Develop effective reading strategies and manage your time wisely during this section.

Strategies for the Writing and Language Section

With 35 minutes and 44 questions, the writing and language section of the SAT without the essay demands strong grammar and editing skills. Here are some strategies to help you excel in this section:

Read the Passage Carefully: Before diving into the questions, take the time to read the passage thoroughly. Pay attention to the main idea, tone, and structure of the writing. This will help you better understand the context and make informed decisions.
Focus on Grammar: This section tests your command of grammar rules. Pay attention to subjects, verb agreement, tenses, pronouns, and modifiers. Brushing up on grammar rules beforehand can greatly improve your performance.
Manage Your Time: Time management is crucial in this section. Aim to spend no more than a minute on each question. If you’re stuck on a particular question, don’t dwell on it. Make an educated guess and move on to maximize your chances of answering all the questions.

Additionally, here’s a breakdown of the question types you might encounter in the writing and language section:

By implementing these strategies and familiarizing yourself with the question types, you can approach the writing and language section of the SAT without the essay with confidence. Remember to practice regularly, review grammar rules, and manage your time effectively to optimize your performance.

Navigating the Math Sections

The SAT without the essay includes two math sections, one without a calculator lasting 25 minutes with 20 questions, and another with a calculator lasting 55 minutes with 38 questions. Let’s explore how you can tackle these sections successfully.

When approaching the math sections, it’s important to manage your time effectively. Start by scanning through the questions and identifying those that you feel confident answering. Prioritize these easier questions to ensure you score valuable points early on. Remember, there is no penalty for guessing, so if you’re unsure about a particular question, make an educated guess and move on.

For the math section without a calculator, you’ll need to rely on mental math skills and problem-solving techniques. Utilize the scratch paper provided to perform calculations and work through complex problems. It’s crucial to double-check your work and ensure accuracy, as even a small error can lead to an incorrect answer.

When you reach the math section with a calculator, use it strategically. While a calculator can be a useful tool, avoid over-reliance on it. It’s still important to possess strong mathematical skills and understanding. Use the calculator for complex calculations, but be cautious not to waste time inputting simple calculations that you can solve mentally. Additionally, be sure to familiarize yourself with the calculator’s functions before the exam to maximize efficiency.

Math Sections Overview

By managing your time, leveraging problem-solving strategies, and practicing with sample questions, you can approach the math sections of the SAT without the essay section confidently. Remember, preparation and practice are key to achieving success on the test. Good luck!

The Optional Essay Section

While the essay section is optional on the SAT, it adds an additional 50 minutes to the test duration, but only in certain states where it is required. Let’s examine the importance of this section and whether it is necessary for your college admissions.

For students considering taking the optional essay section, it’s crucial to understand the requirements and expectations. The essay portion of the SAT allows you to showcase your analytical and writing skills, providing colleges and universities with an additional piece of information about your abilities. It tests your ability to critically analyze a given passage and construct a well-organized, coherent response within a limited timeframe.

While some colleges may require the essay portion, many have made it an optional component of their admissions process. It’s important to research the specific requirements of the institutions you’re interested in to determine if the essay section is necessary for your application. If you’re unsure, it’s recommended to take the optional essay section, as it provides an opportunity to demonstrate your writing proficiency and showcase additional skills that may enhance your application.

Remember, even if the essay section is not required for your top-choice colleges, it’s always beneficial to have strong writing skills. The ability to construct a well-argued, coherent essay is a valuable asset in college and beyond. Taking the optional essay section can help prepare you for the writing demands you may encounter in higher education and other aspects of your academic journey.

As you prepare for the SAT, consider your strengths in writing and time management. Reflect on the requirements of your target colleges and decide whether taking the optional essay section aligns with your goals. Remember to practice under timed conditions and review sample essay prompts to familiarize yourself with the expectations of this section. Taking the time to prepare will ensure that you can make an informed decision and perform your best on test day.

Time Management and Test Strategies

Proper time management is crucial for success on the SAT, and understanding how to utilize the allocated time efficiently can significantly impact your overall score. Let’s explore some key strategies for managing time effectively during the test.

1. Prioritize Easier Questions: When you first encounter a section, quickly scan through the questions and identify those that you find easier or more familiar. Answering these questions first will help you build confidence and save time for more challenging ones later.

2. Pace Yourself: The SAT is a timed test, so it’s essential to keep track of the time and allocate it wisely. Divide the time available for each section, and aim to complete the questions within the designated time frame. Remember, spending too much time on a single question can cost you valuable time on others.

3. Utilize Guessing: Since there is no longer a penalty for guessing, it’s in your best interest to answer every question, even if you’re unsure of the correct answer. Use strategic guessing techniques, such as eliminating obviously wrong options or making an educated guess based on partial knowledge.

4. Take Advantage of Breaks: The SAT includes breaks between sections, so make use of this time to recharge and refocus. Stretch your legs, have a snack, or take a few deep breaths to relax. These short breaks can help alleviate test anxiety and enhance your concentration for the next section.

By implementing these time management strategies and practicing them during your SAT preparation, you can optimize your performance and maximize your chances of achieving your desired score. Remember, preparation, practice tests, and getting enough sleep are also key factors in performing well on the SAT.

Important Considerations and Changes

When planning for the SAT without the essay, it’s important to factor in breaks, travel time, and any special accommodations that you may require. Additionally, recent changes to the test structure, including the optional essay and subject tests, are important to keep in mind.

The SAT without the essay section is approximately 3 hours long, excluding breaks. The reading section consists of 52 questions and lasts for 65 minutes. Following this, the writing and language section, with 44 questions, is allocated 35 minutes of test time. The math section without a calculator requires 25 minutes to answer 20 questions, while the math section with a calculator grants 55 minutes for 38 questions.

It’s worth noting that the essay section is only available in certain states where it is required, adding an additional 50 minutes to the test duration. To ensure an accurate schedule, there are breaks included in the test: a 10-minute break between the reading and writing sections, and a 5-minute break between the two math sections. Furthermore, test time may be extended by an additional 20 minutes for a pre-tested section.

Students should aim to complete the SAT between 12:15 and 12:45 p.m., considering travel time and potential special accommodations for those with medical conditions or exceptional circumstances. With recent changes to the test, the SAT no longer includes subject tests and the optional essay section will no longer be required after June. Time management is crucial for success on the SAT, so students should prioritize easier questions first and avoid spending too much time on any one section. Additionally, there is no longer a penalty for guessing, encouraging students to answer as many questions as possible within the given time limit. Adequate preparation, practice tests, and sufficient rest are pivotal factors in performing well on the SAT without the essay.

Updated SAT Test Structure

“The path to success on the SAT without the essay lies in careful planning. Consider your need for breaks, travel time, and any special accommodations you may require. Stay informed about the recent changes, such as the optional essay no longer being required after June. Prepare well, manage your time effectively, and remember to rest. Success awaits!”

To excel on the SAT without the essay, it is crucial to understand its duration, sections, and test-taking strategies, while also prioritizing preparation, practice tests, and getting sufficient rest. By implementing these strategies, you can maximize your performance on this important college admissions exam.

The SAT without the essay section is approximately 3 hours long, excluding breaks. It consists of several sections, each with its own time limit and number of questions. The reading section lasts for 65 minutes and includes 52 questions, while the writing and language section is 35 minutes long with 44 questions. The math section without a calculator is 25 minutes with 20 questions, and the math section with a calculator is 55 minutes with 38 questions.

It’s important to note that the optional essay section is available in certain states and adds an additional 50 minutes to the test. However, after June, the SAT essay section will no longer be required. Additionally, breaks are provided during the test, including a 10-minute break between the reading and writing sections, as well as a 5-minute break between the two math sections. The test time may also be extended by an additional 20 minutes for a pre-tested section.

In order to make the most of your SAT experience, consider travel time and any special accommodations required due to medical conditions or other circumstances. Remember, the new SAT has a total duration of 3 hours, or 3 hours and 50 minutes with the optional essay section. Time management is key to success on the SAT, so prioritize easier questions first and don’t spend too much time on any one section. With the removal of the guessing penalty, feel free to answer as many questions as possible within the given time limits.

Ultimately, preparation, practice tests, and ensuring you get enough sleep are crucial factors in performing well on the SAT. By understanding the test structure, managing your time effectively, and implementing smart test-taking strategies, you can increase your chances of achieving a high score and opening doors to future educational opportunities.

Q: How long is the SAT without the essay section?

A: The SAT without the essay section is about 3 hours long, not including breaks.

Q: What is the breakdown of the SAT without essay sections?

A: The reading section is 65 minutes with 52 questions, the writing and language section is 35 minutes with 44 questions, the math section without a calculator is 25 minutes with 20 questions, and the math section with a calculator is 55 minutes with 38 questions.

Q: Is the essay section mandatory?

A: The essay section is only available in certain states where it is required and adds an additional 50 minutes to the test.

Q: Are there breaks during the SAT without the essay?

A: Yes, there is a 10-minute break between the reading and writing sections, and a 5-minute break between the two math sections.

Q: Can the test time be extended?

A: Test time may be extended by an additional 20 minutes for a pre-tested section.

Q: What time should students aim to finish the SAT without the essay?

A: Students should aim to finish between 12:15 and 12:45 p.m., but travel time and special accommodations should also be taken into account.

Q: How long is the new SAT without the essay section?

A: The new SAT without the essay has a total duration of 3 hours, or 3 hours and 50 minutes with the optional essay section. The reading section is 65 minutes, the writing and language section is 35 minutes, and the math section is 80 minutes.

Q: Are there any penalties for guessing on the SAT without the essay?

A: There is no longer a penalty for guessing, so students can answer as many questions as possible within the time limit.

Q: What are some tips for success on the SAT without the essay?

A: Preparation, practice tests, and getting enough sleep are important factors in performing well on the SAT. Students should prioritize easier questions first and not spend too much time on any one section.

Q: Are there any recent changes to the SAT without the essay?

A: The SAT essay section will no longer be required after June, and optional subject tests have also been discontinued.

Source Links

https://blog.collegeboard.org/how-long-does-the-sat-take
https://www.collegeraptor.com/getting-in/articles/act-sat/your-guide-to-the-new-sat-timing-content-scoring-and-tips/
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/how-long-the-sat-is-and-how-to-manage-that-time

Baron Cooke has been writing and editing for 7 years. He grew up with an aptitude for geometry, statistics, and dimensions. He has a BA in construction management and also has studied civil infrastructure, engineering, and measurements. He is the head writer of measuringknowhow.com

The Admissions Strategist

How long is the sat the excellent guide to test success.

The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) is important for admission to college. It’s also notoriously challenging.

But it’s not just the content that makes the SAT tough . It’s also the fact that the test is 3-4 hours long and can be mentally draining.

Plus, you have to answer a lot of questions in that 3-4 hours, and many students have a hard time completing all of them.

In this article, we’ll talk about how long the SAT is, how to pace yourself, and how you can build the stamina you need to power through the test.

Click above to watch a video on the SAT.

How long is each section of the SAT?

You can take the SAT either with or without the optional essay. In most cases, it’s best to sign up for the optional essay, since some schools do require it.

Without the essay, the SAT is three hours and 15 minutes long (including breaks).

With the optional essay, the SAT is four hours and five minutes long (including breaks).

Here’s the breakdown of each section:

Reading: 65 minutes, 52 questions
Writing and Language: 35 minutes, 44 questions
Math, No Calculator: 25 minutes, 20 questions
Math, Calculator: 55 minutes, 38 questions
Essay: 50 minutes, 1 question

Math is the only section that’s divided into two parts. For one portion, no calculators are allowed.

For the second part, you’re permitted to use an approved calculator.

How long are the SAT breaks?

If you sign up to write the essay, you’ll get three breaks. If not, you’ll have two breaks during the exam.

The breaks are:

A 10-minute break between the Reading section and the Writing and Language section
A five-minute break between the two Math sections
A two-minute break after Math, Calculator if you’re staying for the essay

What should I do during my breaks?

The breaks are your chance to catch your breath, rest your mind, and recharge.

None of the breaks are extremely long, but be sure to take advantage of them.

As tempting as it may be, don’t spend your breaks agonizing over any questions or trying to analyze how you’re doing so far.

You’re supposed to be taking a break!
The length of the test can be grueling, and you need these breaks to help you stay focused and refreshed throughout.

Remember that the breaks get shorter as the test goes on. During the two-minute break before the essay, you won’t be allowed to leave the room.

It’s a quick stretch break at your desk.
So, be sure to use the restroom during the five-minute break between Math sections.

Aside from using the restroom, you can use your breaks to drink water, eat a snack, and walk around a bit to stretch your legs and rest your mind.

Try to bring some brain-boosting snacks like fruits and/or nuts. Avoid sugary snacks that can set you up for a crash.

And remember to follow the rules during breaks: Don’t talk about the test, and don’t try to access any of your devices (e.g. cell phone).

Even though it’s a break, your test may be invalidated if you’re seen breaking the rules.

What time does the SAT start and end?

At all SAT test centers, doors open at 7:45 a.m. and close at 8:00 a.m., unless another time is noted on your admission ticket.

Once testing has started, you won’t be allowed in and will have to reschedule or re-register. (Rescheduling is much cheaper.)

Testing will start between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.

The test coordinator will read all testing instructions from a manual, answer any questions related to testing procedures, and then tell you when to start and stop working on each section.

There may be slight variations on when the test ends, depending on how long it takes to review instructions and other factors.

In general, you can expect to stay until around noon if you aren’t writing the essay and around 1:00 p.m. if you are completing the essay section.

So, the short answer:

The SAT starts between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and typically ends around 12:00 p.m. or 1:00 p.m., depending on whether you’re writing the essay.

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How much time should i spend on each sat question.

You might think you can answer this question by dividing the number of questions per section by the amount of time you’ll have to answer them.

But it’s not quite that simple.

Let’s look at how you should pace yourself on each section of the SAT.

The Reading section is 65 minutes long and consists of 52 questions. More importantly, it contains five passages (each with associated questions).

On average, you should spend 13 minutes per passage .
This includes reading the passage and answering the questions that accompany it.
If you want a few minutes to review at the end, aim to spend about 12 minutes per passage.

It’s best to dedicate about five of those minutes to reading the passage. Passages are 500-750 words long.

Spend much more time, and you risk running out of time on the questions.

Spend fewer than five minutes reading, and you may overlook key information.

Writing and Language

The Writing and Language section is 35 minutes long and consists of 44 questions.

These questions are spread out over four passages.

The Writing and Language passages are shorter than the Reading passages (400-450 words).

Try to spend eight minutes per passage , allowing about three minutes for review at the end.

Math, No Calculator

The Math, No Calculator section consists of 15 multiple choice questions and five grid-in questions.

You have 25 minutes to answer these 20 questions.

An equal division of time would give you 75 seconds to answer each question.
However, it’s important to note that this section is arranged in order of difficulty, with the most challenging questions coming at the end of the section.

For that reason, it’s a good idea to spend 60 seconds on each question when possible, allowing slightly more time for the most difficult questions.

Math, Calculator

The Math, Calculator section is also arranged by order of difficulty, with the most challenging questions appearing at the end of the section.

You have 55 minutes to complete this section, and it consists of 30 multiple choice questions and eight grid-in questions.
An equal division of time would give you 80 seconds per question, with about four minutes to check over your answers at the end.

When possible, try to spend closer to 65-70 seconds on each question, so that you can devote more time to the more complex questions at the end.

How do I prepare for the length of the SAT?

The content of the SAT is difficult, but one of the most challenging aspects of the exam is the grueling length and the stamina required to complete it.

How can you increase your focus, concentration, and stamina for the four-hour exam?

Well, the process is similar to increasing your stamina for a sport. You’ll have to practice!

Take full-length, timed practice SAT tests. Even practice taking breaks. You’ll get used to the structure and format, and you’ll get a feel for how to pace yourself on exam day.
Time yourself on individual sections too. This way, you can identify areas of weakness and brush up on the sections where you need the most practice. You can devise strategies to help you speed up (and maintain your accuracy) on the sections that give you the most trouble.
Have a plan. Make a plan for what you’ll do if you get stuck on a question or if you start to feel overwhelmed during the test. For example, you might take a few deep breaths. Remember that very few people will answer every question correctly. After more than a minute or so has passed, you’ll need to move on. Once you move on, don’t spend time dwelling on the last question. Focus on one question at a time.

By practicing taking a full-length test, getting your pacing right, and working on strategies to help you stay “in the zone,” you’ll build stamina and the ability to work under pressure.

How long are SAT II exams?

The SAT Subject Tests (SAT II) are all hour-long exams. All questions are multiple choice, but the number of questions varies.

For instance, the Literature exam is about 60 questions long, while the World History exam consists of 95 questions.

There are no breaks during an individual SAT Subject Test. However, you can take up to three Subject Tests during one testing session.

If you take multiple tests, you do get a five-minute break between each one.

What can I bring with me to the SAT and SAT II exams?

Whether you’re taking the SAT or an SAT II exam, you should bring:

Admission Ticket
Two No. 2 pencils with erasers
Approved calculator (if your test will include mathematics)
Water and snacks

If you’re taking an SAT II Language with Listening test, you may also be expected to bring an approved CD player.

Do not bring:

Your cell phone
Any recording device or personal computing device (e.g. tablet or laptop)
Cameras or other photographic equipment
A separate timer of any kind

If you absolutely must bring a cell phone (for instance, to contact a parent to pick you up when the test is finished), turn it off and leave it inside a bag, backpack, or purse until your test is complete.

Don’t check it, even during breaks. If it makes a noise during the test, your test could be invalidated.

How should I plan my day for the SAT test?

If you’re like most people, you’ll be feeling nervous the morning of the test. Planning ahead can help you reduce some of your test-day jitters.

The Day Before

Don’t study the day or night before the test. By now, you know what you’re going to know. Let your brain rest.

In addition:

Plan in advance for how you’ll get to the testing site. It’s even a good idea to drive to the site to see how long it’ll take you and to familiarize yourself with the route. If you’ll need to leave extra time to find parking or to locate your testing room in the building, plan for that as well.
Eat a healthy and filling dinner , like pasta, rice, vegetables, and potatoes. Drink lots of water too.
Organize your bag or backpack the day before the test with all the materials you’ll need. Double check that you’ve packed your Admission Ticket, your ID, some pencils, and a calculator if needed.
Set out your outfit the night before , giving you one less thing to worry about in the morning. It’s a good idea to bring a sweater in case the testing room is chilly.

The Day of the Test

Wake up early and give yourself time for a nutritious breakfast. Good options include eggs, toast, fruit, oatmeal, yogurt, and/or a bagel.
Get to the testing center early. Leave yourself time to settle in, instead of feeling like you’re scrambling all morning.
While you wait, take deep breaths and remember all the preparation you’ve put in. You’ve got this!
Plan to leave the testing center around 12:00 or 1:00, depending on whether you’re writing the essay. Don’t make solid after-test plans any time before 1:00-2:00, however, as some tests may run slightly later.

Advice From a College Expert

From Beth Daniel Lindsay, director of academic advising and accessibility services coordinator at Sweet Briar College:

As with many things in life, practice makes perfect. In this case, I’d change that to practice makes better…very few people score perfectly on the SAT! Students preparing to take the SAT should take practice tests in realistic settings (i.e. at the same time as the SAT and with breaks at the same times). The test starts early in the morning, so get used to that. For most students, there are two breaks: one for ten minutes and one for five. Don’t take extra breaks because you won’t be able to do that on test day. The College Board has eight practice tests available for free online. Focus only on one section at a time, just like you will need to on test day. Students are not allowed to skip ahead if they finish early or to go back to earlier sections to recheck their work. Put your phone and any other electronic device away, again, just like on test day. This means that ideally, you will need someone to time you, not your phone. Consider asking a parent, guardian or family friend to do this for you and for one or more friends at the same time. Most students take the SAT in a room with other students, so this is another good opportunity to practice. During the exam, take deep breaths to calm your nerves. If you have a meditation practice, now is a good time to do some very brief meditation. Put aside other concerns and focus on the test. Remember the hierarchy of needs, too: eat a healthy, filling dinner the night before and a healthy, filling breakfast the morning of the test. Bring snacks like a granola bar or nuts — relatively healthy and easy to pack. Don’t assume there will be vending machines at the test center. Get plenty of sleep. Drink some water, but not so much that you’ll need extra breaks because they won’t be available. Try not to worry. If you’ve practiced, you’ve done all that you can and worrying excessively isn’t going to help. When it comes to high-stakes tests like the SAT, I don’t believe in saying good luck. With the right preparation and mindset, you don’t need luck. So, I wish you success!

Conclusion: How Long Is the SAT?

The SAT can feel both too long and too short. It’s difficult to stay focused and high performing for several hours straight, but it can also be a struggle to get to every single question.

It’s helpful to:

Familiarize yourself with the length and ideal pacing of each section
Take full-length, timed practice tests
Time yourself on each individual section as well
Develop calming strategies to help you stay focused during the test
Plan ahead to make your test day run as smoothly as possible
Take full advantage of your breaks on test day

Follow these strategies, and you’ll maximize your ability to answer questions both correctly and efficiently.

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How Long is the SAT Test

Time management is precious when it comes to anything related to academic achievements.Ensure you are aware of all the SAT test times so that you can prepare well enough for the test. You can even order custom essay from Studyfy’s essay writers to learn by example. Knowing SAT section times is critical if you want to complete everything on time. Find out how long the SAT test time lasts with and without the Essay section, and how many times you can go for a break.

What Time Do You Need to Arrive

While you can find an essay writer for hire to help you with your homework, SAT is your responsibility only. That’s why you should pay attention to the details.When the day of the SAT test comes, everything must be perfect. You should make sure you arrive at the needed location on time. And this does not mean you can enter the center a few minutes before the beginning. The administration closes the doors of the test center at 8:00. Therefore, watch the time and arrive earlier, let’s say, around 7:45.Besides, the first thing to do as you arrive is to pass the registration. The administrators would ask you to show your ticket and ID during this. Finally, if you come earlier, you can focus on the test, calm yourself down, and get your thoughts in order.

When does the SAT Start

The instruction before the testing lasts for about 30 minutes. It would be best if you come early to hear all the recommendations and guidelines from the administrators. The exam starts around 8:30-9:00. For you, it is critical to come in time and listen to the essential details so that you don’t miss anything.

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How Long Does the SAT Take

As it always happens with some crucial tasks, SAT time runs fast. So, how long is the SAT with and without an Essay part? Let’s see: all the mandatory parts – Reading, Writing and Language, Math – No-Calculator, Math – Calculator – last for 3 hours. If you decide on taking the Essay part as well, the SAT test will last for 3 hours, 50 minutes for you. What time does the SAT end? Note that the test will end between 11:45 and 12:30 (without the optional Essay part).

However, if you write an essay, the exam will end between 13:00 and 13:30.

How Long is Each Section of the SAT

Sat reading time.

Reading time seems to be the easiest part of the SAT exam. You can prepare for this section anywhere and anytime you want. Note that the duration of the part accounts for 65 minutes – from 8:30 till 9:35. So, you will receive the passages, and your task is to interpret these.

Don’t be too relaxed; this section allows you to gather all your concentration for the next parts. The passages might be related to science, literature, or any other subject. Your task is to interpret the text in the right way. That is why you must read the question and understand what you are looking for.

SAT Writing and Language Time

The Language and Writing sections last for 35 minutes (from 9:45 to 10:10). You will have a passage where you will need to find the grammatical and punctuation mistakes. All in all, there are two types of questions you need to handle:

The first one will ask you to improve the use of the word or phrase
The second one will ask you to make a sentence sound grammatically correct and standardized.

The main idea of the section is to understand the theme of the passages. Stay focused while you are reading the text. More importantly, practice some reading before the day of the actual SAT test.

SAT Math Time

The SAT Math section time is divided into two parts:

55-minute section with a calculator( 10:10-10:35)
25-minute section without a calculator (10:40-11:35)

As you can see, the duration of the whole section is 80 minutes. During the test, you need to cover 58 questions. The math parts – both with and without calculators – require special attention and critical thinking.

Besides, the new variant of the Math section in the SAT exam presupposes the knowledge of both mathematical algorithms and theories. Another novelty is a grid-in question that is worth 4 points. Thus, be prepared to use your brain to the full extent.

SAT Essay Time

The essay section is an optional one and lasts for 50 minutes (from 11:35 till 12:25). Here is what this assignment offers: you receive a text (around 600-700 words), read it, and write about your thoughts regarding the topic. The task is not that hard – what you need is attention and attentiveness to the details. Also, you must get the main idea.

While analysis will take some time, make sure you practice fast reading before the test. Being able to read fast, you will have enough time to digest the information. Please, pay attention to some strong arguments of the writer and think about how to interpret them. Create an outline with these arguments and your explanations. After this, you may get down to work.

SAT Breaks: Duration and Schedule

There are two breaks during the entire test and one more break for those who decided on taking an essay assignment. So, the first break takes time between the Reading and Writing sections. You will have 10 minutes to drink water and eat some snacks from 9:35 till 9:45. The next break will be between two maths tests, and it will last from 10:35 till 10:40.

Finally, for those going to take an Essay section, there will be a brief additional break (2 minutes only) after the math tests. Try to distract a little during all the breaks so that your brain has some rest. Remember to drink water and eat a little because hunger is the last thing you need while answering the test questions.

What to Do if You Run Out of Time

As you prepare for the SAT test, it's important to keep in mind that it can be stressful and time-limited. If you find yourself stuck on difficult questions, try not to panic. Instead, focus on answering the questions you know first, as there may be many other questions you can answer quickly. Don't spend too much time on tough questions, as this could prevent you from demonstrating your overall knowledge.

Once you've covered all the questions you know, you can then go back to the ones you found challenging earlier. The length of the SAT test should provide you with enough time for this strategy. If you come across a question that you're unsure about and have no idea how to answer, it's still better to guess rather than leaving it blank. Try to eliminate inappropriate answer choices and make an educated guess. Sometimes, this intuitive approach can yield positive results.

If you're struggling with writing tasks like philosophy essays, term papers, or nursing essays, don't hesitate to seek help from reliable term paper writing services or nursing essay writers . These professional services can provide you with valuable assistance and guidance, helping you improve your writing skills and achieve better results on your assignments. Remember to manage your time effectively during the SAT test and seek help when needed to maximize your chances of success.

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How long is the SAT?

Few things boost your chances of a college acceptance letter like a high SAT score. The key to a high SAT score? Knowing exactly what to expect on test day, and knowing how to manage your time.

At PrepMaven, we’ve coached thousands of students to stellar scores on the SAT, and one of the biggest hurdles many students face initially is dealing with the SAT’s timing. The students that overcame the hurdle universally did so by preparing for the specific timing constraints of the test.

In this post, we’ll cover the exact timing breakdown of the Digital SAT, including all sections and breaks. We’ll also discuss how the timing changes for students with accommodations. Regardless of your score goal, the first step to preparing for this test is understanding its format.

Jump to section: How long is each section of the SAT? What time is the SAT administered? Can you leave early if you finish? Timing accommodations on the SAT Making sure you’re ready for the SAT’s timing SAT time saving tips Next steps

How long is each section of the SAT?

Starting in 2024, the SAT will follow a new but very straightforward format. You’ll take the Reading and Writing section, which is split up into two equal-length “modules,” then you’ll have a ten minute break, then you’ll take the Math section, which is also split up into two equal-length “modules.”

Here’s a visual breakdown of what the SAT format looks like, with timing information included:

Including the break, the Digital SAT takes 2 hours and 24 minutes.

For a full break-down of what’s on each SAT section and how each SAT section is organized, check out our comprehensive overview of the SAT sections here .

While preparing for the SAT, don’t forget that the whole process will take a little bit longer. You and the other students will have to get situated in the test center, you’ll be read testing instructions, and you’ll have to wait for the proctor to give you permission to leave.

What time is the SAT administered?

If you’re taking the digital SAT at a test center without accommodations, you can know exactly what to expect from the schedule.

7:45 AM: the testing center opens and students may enter.
8:00 AM: doors close, and no additional students will be allowed inside.
8:15 AM to 8:45 AM: testing will begin within this time frame, depending on how long it takes the proctor to get everyone settled in.

What time you finish depends, really, on you: the maximum duration of the test is 2 hours and 24 minutes, but you may finish earlier!

Can you leave early if you finish?

Yes! It’s a huge difference from past versions of the SAT, but the Digital SAT (2024 and onward) will allow you to leave the center as soon as you’re finished with your test. As soon as you decide you’re finished with a section (meaning the second module of Reading and Writing or the second module of Math), you can hit “Finish” and move on to the next portion of the test. You can even skip the break, if you want (though we don’t recommend it). The test won’t, however, allow you to finish the first module of either section early.

So, you get a bit of freedom to decide how long you spend on the test, so long as you don’t go over the time limits.

Because each student takes the test individually on their computer, you no longer have to wait for the other students to finish. As soon as the proctor confirms that you’ve finished the test and collects your scrap paper, you’re free to leave.

But: it’s still not a good idea to try to finish quickly. Even the best SAT test-takers (including those aiming for a perfect score) make sure to use all of the available time the test provides. There’s simply no reason not to! If you finish a section early, go back and review or redo questions. You never know when you’ll catch a silly mistake and save yourself precious points.

Timing accommodations on the SAT

As with past versions of the SAT, the new Digital SAT offers different accommodations to students with disabilities. Some of these accommodations change the SAT’s timing restrictions. Specifically, the College Board offers accommodations for:

time and a half (+50%)
double time (+100%)
more than double time (>+100%)
Extended/extra breaks

You can read our guide on how SAT Timing accommodations work here –if you’re eligible for these, they can make a huge difference in your score and performance, so it’s worth checking it. Many students don’t even know that they’re eligible for accommodations!

To apply for these accommodations, you’ll need to have documentation of a learning disability, and you’ll have to go through the College Board’s process for requesting accommodations, which is typically done through your school. You can find the exact process on College Board’s website here.

Making sure you’re ready for the SAT’s timing

What’s the best way to make sure you’re ready for the time pressure of the SAT? While drilling full timed practice tests is definitely important, it’s not the only thing that matters. We recommend using all of the available resources to practice your timing skills in different ways. Ways to practice your SAT timing include:

Full timed practice tests in College Board’s BlueBook app.
Individual timed sections, either through the BlueBook app or with the paper tests.
Setting a time limit for individual questions.

At the end of the day, however, there’s no substitute for an SAT expert who can guide you through their strategies and tips for mastering the SAT timing. Our SAT tutors aren’t just brilliant Ivy League students who got stellar scores on their own SATs: they’re specialists trained to teach you the most effective time-management strategies that’ll work for your specific situation.

When you contact us, we’ll start an individualized tutor-student matching process, finding the tutor who is the best fit for your needs.

SAT time saving tips

Below, we’ve collected some of the most helpful time management tips from our top scorers, tailored specifically for the tools and format of the digital SAT.

Use the bookmark feature!

The Digital SAT now offers the convenient option of flagging or book marking a question. As you work through the SAT, you’ll see a menu that lets you jump back to any of the questions from that same module, and questions you’ve bookmarked will be highlighted. This is an incredible tool: if you find yourself sinking too much time on a question, don’t get stuck on it . Instead, put your best guess, bookmark it, and return if you have time.

On Reading and Writing, target specific question types.

On the Reading and Writing section, questions are loosely organized by type: all of the punctuation questions will be in one part of the module, the reading comprehension questions in another, and so on. (You can read a full breakdown of how the SAT’s Reading and Writing section is structured here.)

Some questions are faster to do for others. So, if you’re running low on time, jump to the questions that are easier and quicker! This’ll depend on your own skills: if you’re a whiz at subject-verb agreement or transition word questions, then use your knowledge of the test structure to jump to those questions and quickly rack up as many points as you can.

On Math, get really familiar with the Desmos calculator.

While you can bring your own calculator to the SAT, the integrated Desmos calculator is incredibly powerful . It’s so useful, in fact, that it can help you quickly crack questions even if you don’t understand the math being tested!

Even if you’re a math prodigy, the math timing on the SAT can put pressure on you, and doing the calculations themselves can be a huge time-waster if you’re not efficient. In our post on “What’s on SAT Math? ” we cover exactly what kinds of questions you’ll see, and how Desmos can be a massive time-saver!

By mastering Desmos, you’ll be amazed at how much valuable time you can save on the SAT Math, which means you’ll have more time to check your answers and tackle harder questions.

Set timing targets.

Because you know how long the test is and how many questions are on it, you should set timing targets for yourself ahead of test day. But be careful: it’s not as simple as saying that by the point you’ve used up half your time, you should have answered half the questions.

Different question types take different amounts of time, and it’s totally normal to spend more time on, say, the Reading questions than the Writing questions. So, the best thing to do is to get lots of practice with the digital tests at home, and to develop a timing strategy that allows you to finish the modules with time to spare.

As you practice at home, check in frequently with the Digital SAT’s clock, and develop goals for yourself. You might say, for example, that you’ll use roughly 20 minutes for the first half of the Reading and Writing questions and 12 minutes for the second half. It all depends on your skills and speed! The key thing is to keep those timing targets in mind on the day of the actual test, and use them to adjust your speed as needed.

Watch the clock, but don’t obsess over it.

The Digital SAT offers a built-in countdown clock that shows you how much time you have remaining on your current module. It’s another great tool, and it can help keep you on pace with those timing targets we mentioned above.

That being said, don’t get so hung up looking at the clock that you get stressed or waste your time on it. You have the option of hiding the clock, and if you know you’re the kind of person who’ll get stressed out watching it, make sure that you do hide it.

Instead of having it up the whole time, decide on some benchmark points where you’ll check the clock and reevaluate your pacing. For example, you might say that every 10 questions you’ll look at the clock and ensure you’re on track.

If you don’t get worried by having the running countdown on screen the whole time, then by all means keep it up. But this is something you should figure out well ahead of test day so that you can go in with a concrete time-management plan.

Understanding the SAT’s timing is the first step, but there’s a lot of work still left to do if you’re serious about attaining your goal score. First, we recommend getting familiar with the Digital SAT’s structure, and then exploring our breakdowns of all the content the SAT tests in Reading, Writing, and Math.

Most importantly, you should take a diagnostic SAT test to see where your strengths and weaknesses are. Our trained tutors can help you review the diagnostic and come up with a targeted test prep plan to ensure that you’re using your time effectively in the lead up to the SAT.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, sat with essay vs without.

Hey all, I need some advice. I'm taking the SAT soon, and I'm not sure if I should do it with the essay or without. Can anyone give me some pros and cons of each option? And do colleges still require the essay sometimes?

Hey there! It's a good idea to think about whether to take the SAT with or without the essay. I'll share some pros and cons of each option and discuss the essay's relevance in college admissions.

Pros of taking the SAT with the essay:

1. Some colleges require or recommend it: While the number of colleges requiring the essay has significantly decreased, there are still a few that prefer it. It's important to research the specific colleges you're interested in to determine their requirements.

2. Showcase your writing skills: If you excel in writing, the essay portion can provide another opportunity to showcase your abilities.

Cons of taking the SAT with the essay:

1. Additional cost: Taking the SAT with the essay costs more than taking the test without it.

2. Longer testing time: Including the essay adds an extra 50 minutes to the test, which might be tiring for some students.

3. Less focus on other sections: Preparing for the essay might divert your attention from the main sections of the test (Math, Reading, and Writing and Language).

Pros of taking the SAT without the essay:

1. Less expensive: The test fee is lower without the essay option.

2. Shorter testing time: You'll spend less time in the testing center, which might help you maintain focus on the crucial sections of the exam.

3. Focus on core subjects: Removing the essay allows you to concentrate on improving your scores in the main areas colleges care about.

Cons of taking the SAT without the essay:

1. Potential requirement: As I mentioned earlier, a small number of colleges still require or recommend submitting the essay. If you change your mind about applying to such a school, you could find yourself taking the SAT again.

In recent years, the importance of the SAT essay has diminished in the college admissions process, with many opting for test-optional policies or disregarding the essay altogether. However, it's important to double-check the requirements of the colleges you plan to apply to.

To decide whether to include the essay, research your target schools, consider your writing abilities, and think about your willingness to invest additional time and money in the test. Good luck with your decision and SAT preparation!

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

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The Definitive Guide to the SAT 2024

Dec 12, 2023 | Articles , SAT , Standardized Tests

What is the SAT?

The Digital SAT is a standardized test created by the College Board and has been completely redesigned beginning with the March 2024 test. You’ll take the test on the SAT Bluebook™ app (unless you have paper-based accommodations) which you’ll want to download and practice with before test day. Typically, juniors and seniors take the test for college admissions, scholarship awards, and school assessments. The test takes about two and a half hours, including two short breaks. For some students in particular states, an optional Essay portion adds an extra fifty minutes at the end.

What are the sections of the SAT?

The Digital SAT includes two sections with two modules each, Reading & Writing and Math . Each section counts for 50% of your composite score. This newly adaptive test contains a mix of easy to difficult questions in the first module for each section, then offers an easier or tougher second module depending on how well you answer the questions in the first section. No Science section exists on the SAT as on the ACT, but knowledge of interpreting charts, tables, and graphs is assessed throughout all test sections. The SAT provides 68% more time per question than the ACT, and there’s no penalty for guessing.

Reading & Writing

The Reading & Writing section includes short (25-150 words) reading passages (or passage pairs) on subjects from literature, history/social studies, the humanities, and science. Each multiple-choice question that follows a passage covers one of four domains:

Information and Ideas. Measures comprehension, analysis, and reasoning skills and knowledge and the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, and integrate information and ideas from texts and informational graphics (tables, bar graphs, and line graphs).
Craft and Structure. Measures the comprehension, vocabulary, analysis, synthesis, and reasoning skills and knowledge needed to understand and use high-utility words and phrases in context, evaluate texts rhetorically, and make connections between topically related texts.
Expression of Ideas. Measures the ability to revise texts to improve the effectiveness of written expression and to meet specific rhetorical goals.
Standard English Conventions. Measures the ability to edit text to conform to core conventions of Standard English sentence structure, usage, and punctuation.

The Math section requires a deep understanding of algebra, but the test provides basic geometry formulas. The Bluebook app includes a built-in calculator, or you can still choose to bring your own from an approved list . Most (approximately 75%) questions are multiple-choice; but for some questions, you’ll need to provide a specific answer. These student-produced response (SPR) format questions may have multiple correct responses, but you’ll only provide one answer. Questions measure your ability to apply essential math concepts and about 30% of questions ask you to evaluate an in-context (worded) scenario and determine how to apply your math skills to find the answer. Each question covers one of four content areas:

Algebra. Algebra measures the ability to analyze, fluently solve, and create linear equations and inequalities as well as analyze and fluently solve equations and systems of equations using multiple techniques. (13-15 questions)
Advanced Math. The Advanced Math area measures skills and knowledge central for progression to more advanced math courses, including demonstrating an understanding of absolute value, quadratic, exponential, polynomial, rational, radical, and other nonlinear equations. (13-15 questions)
Problem-Solving and Data Analysis. Problem-Solving and Data Analysis measures the ability to apply quantitative reasoning about ratios, rates, and proportional relationships; understand and apply unit rate; and analyze and interpret one- and two-variable data. (5-7 questions)
Geometry and Trigonometry. Problems to solve include area and volume formulas; lines, angles, and triangles; right triangles and trigonometry, and circles. (5-7 questions)

How long is the SAT?

How many questions are on the SAT?

The SAT includes 154 questions.

Reading & Writing includes 54 questions in 64 minutes (average 71 seconds per question)
Math has 44 questions in 70 minutes (average 95 seconds per question)

What are the SAT dates?

The SAT is offered seven times each year in March, May, June, August, October, November, and December. This provides multiple opportunities to take the test and increase your scores. Many schools, especially in states where the SAT is mandated for all high school juniors, also offer the test during the school day for students, generally in the spring. Check with your school to see if and when they offer the SAT.

What is the average SAT score?

SAT scores range from 400 to 1600. The average SAT score for the class of 2023 was 1028 , down 22 points from 2022. ( Curious what that would be on the ACT? ) A ccording to the College Board’s latest score report , only 7% of all test-takers scored higher than 1400. No one scored below 590, and 12% of test-takers scored between 600 and 790. The Digital SAT (March 2024 onward) may be difficult to compare with the previous version of the SAT.

How do you register for the SAT?

Register for the SAT at www.collegeboard.org . Test centers can be found on the SAT website , where you can search by state and test date. B ring a photo ID with your admission ticket on test day. You can use a driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued photo ID. If you don’t have any of these IDs, the SAT offers alternative methods to prove your identity. When you register, you can choose to include information to allow colleges and scholarship organizations to contact you.

On test day, you are expected to bring your fully-charged device with the Bluebook testing app already loaded. You can also bring a pen/pencil and use the scratch paper provided at the test site.

How much does the SAT cost?

For 2023, taking the SAT costs $60. Add $30 if you register late, after the regular deadline. You can send up to four free score reports up to nine days after the test date. Additional score reports or reports ordered after you take the test are $14 per report. The SAT offers fee waivers to eligible test-takers (free & reduced lunch, receiving public assistance, etc.). Students can use the waivers to take two free SATs (with or without the essay) and send unlimited score reports. If you think you may be eligible, work with your school counselor to submit your request.

When should you take the SAT?

Taking the PSAT is a good introduction to the format and content of the SAT, during the sophomore or junior year of high school. You may only qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program by testing during your junior year. Register for the PSAT through your school. After taking the PSAT, consider taking the SAT at least four times. No one gets their best score the first (or even second) time. Try taking the test twice in your junior year and twice in your senior fall. This increases the chances of scoring your best and boosting potential scholarships and financial aid!

Should you take the SAT or ACT?

All colleges accept both the ACT and SAT, so try both, then decide where to focus your effort. The SAT has two Math sections compared to only one for the ACT. The ACT, however, has a Science and Data Interpretation section. In general, the content on the SAT is more challenging, but more time is given per question, compared to the ACT. Th e most important thing is to take either test multiple times. Improve your scores through practice.

How long does it take to get SAT scores?

SAT multiple-choice scores are usually reported within 2-3 weeks of your test date. A schedule for individual test dates is available. The College Board sends a ll score reports to your selected colleges within ten days.

How do you improve your SAT scores?

Practice and preparation are two of the biggest ways you can improve your SAT score. Find SAT prep that’s fun and engaging but also gives you strategies to help take the test. Not all test prep is created equal, so research, read reviews, and look past flashy guarantees. OnToCollege offers an effective video course that not only gives you strategies but also practice tests and solution videos to help you learn from your mistakes. Use actual SAT practice tests as you study, (three are included in our course) to learn the format of the test. Then take the actual SAT multiple times, ideally twice your junior year and twice your senior year.

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How Long is the SAT with Optional Essay Section?

by Christian | Dec 24, 2017 | SAT Prep | 0 comments

Get a higher SAT Essay score - fast - with our instant-download complete course.

How long is the sat test with essay.

There’s no doubt that the entire SAT test takes a long time to finish! The test is even longer if you’re taking the (optional) SAT Essay.

So, how long is the SAT with Essay? Well, it comes out to a total of 4 hours and 5 minutes with breaks.

WOW, that’s a long test. Better make sure you prepare !

The SAT test typically starts between 8:30 and 9 AM. So, with essay, that means you’ll get out of the testing center at about 1 PM.

The SAT Essay section itself is 50 minutes long, and is given at the very end of the test. This allows any students who are not taking this optional essay to leave the testing center.

By the way, only fifteen minutes of that entire four-plus hours are break time. That means you spend a total of three hours and fifty minutes purely on high-stress SAT testing .

Remember that the SAT Essay section is “optional” but usually recommended (more on this later)…

How Long is the SAT Test without Essay?

But - what if you aren’t taking the SAT with essay? How long is the SAT Test without the optional essay section?

Well, in this case, the SAT test without essay is three hours and fifteen minutes with breaks. Only fifteen minutes of that are break time. So the SAT is a solid three hours of testing even without the essay.

Again, the SAT test usually starts between 8:30 and 9 AM, so without the Essay section you’ll usually get out of the test a bit after noon.

Is the SAT Essay Optional, and Why Would You Take It?

So, if the SAT Essay is optional and adds fifty minutes to test day, then why would you bother to take it? After all, not every student needs an SAT Essay score.

However, it’s much wiser to assume you will need an SAT Essay score when you apply to your favorite colleges .

If you take the SAT with Essay, the worst-case scenario is you have an extra essay score you don’t use.

But, if you don’t take the SAT with Essay, and you do turn out to need an SAT Essay score, then I’ve got bad news. You’ll actually have to retake the entire SAT Test, just to get a chance at the Essay.

So, does that sound worth it to you, just to avoid writing one measly SAT Essay?

I didn’t think so. Be safe, be wise, and register to take the SAT with “optional” Essay.

How Do You Register for the SAT Test with Essay?

So, how exactly do you register to take the SAT Test with Essay?

Well, like all SAT test registrations, you’ll head to the official College Board website to register online. (Although you can register for the SAT test via other methods, like phone, the vast majority of students will simply register online.)

During the SAT registration process you’ll have a simple and easy option to include the SAT Essay.

Note: It will cost approximately $14 extra to register for the SAT Test with Essay. Again - for the sake of your college applications and peace of mind, I would recommend simply paying the fee and taking the essay.

By the way, don’t forget to prepare diligently for the other sections of the SAT Test before the Essay. The real “meat” of your SAT score comes from a gigantic multiple-choice test over Reading, Grammar, and Math. Be ready!

Where Can You Learn More About the SAT Essay?

So, where can you go to learn more about acing the SAT Essay and getting your top score?

We’ve published tons of free info you can use for a higher SAT Essay score. Start with this article and make sure to practice diligently at home.

If you want a thorough and complete training course on the SAT Essay from a perfect-scoring pro tutor, get our Complete SAT & ACT Essay Course . It’s only available in our online course store. And, it also covers the ACT Essay in detail (but you don’t have to use that part of the course if you don’t need it!)

Finally, if you’re interested in private 1-on-1 tutoring for the SAT Essay, we do that too. Contact us for more details and a free personalized consultation, no matter where in the world you live.

Do you h ave any other burning questions about the SAT Essay? Leave them in the comments below!

Get Higher SAT Essay Scores Today!

Do you want to ace your SAT test, and the SAT essay too? Of course you do! If you get higher scores on your SAT test, you’ll have access to much better colleges and scholarships. And, a better education means more opportunities, more money, and a better lifestyle.

It’s worth it - but you’ll have to work for it. Higher SAT scores are earned , not handed out like candy.

Step One: get our complete SAT Essay course today. Use that course to focus all your attention towards a higher SAT Essay score.

Step Two: Join our free SAT email list ! We’ll keep you updated with exclusive SAT prep tips and other score-raising info.

Step Three: Contact us today for a free, personalized consultation. We are fun and cool experts in SAT testing and preparation, led by a multi-time perfect scorer and veteran tutor.

Take action today and put our expertise to work for yourself. A higher SAT Essay score is within your reach, and all the great college and long-term life benefits that come along with it. Get started now and you’ll never regret it!

Talk again soon, and don’t forget to leave your SAT Essay questions in the comment section below….

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Editorial: Why it’s smart for universities to bring back the SAT requirement

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The SAT and ACT are making a small but important comeback after the tests were widely dropped as a requirement for college applications during the pandemic.

Most schools went test-optional, meaning students could submit scores if they wanted but not doing so wouldn’t count against them. The University of California won’t consider test scores at all.

Only a handful of schools have resurrected the testing requirement, but among them are heavyweights in the world of higher education: MIT, Dartmouth and Georgetown. Most recently, the University of Texas at Austin and Brown University joined the list and the University of North Carolina is considering it . Yale also will require standardized test scores, but tests such as Advanced Placement can be used in place of college entrance exams.

HANOVER, NEW HAMPSHIRE - FEBRUARY 8: A Dartmouth Campus Shuttle moves through campus at Dartmouth College on February 8, 2024 in Hanover, New Hampshire. Dartmouth College has announced it will once again require applicants to submit standardized test scores, beginning with the next application cycle, for the class of 2029. (Photo by Scott Eisen/Getty Images)

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Additional competitive schools are likely to join the group, along with schools that aren’t as selective. The University of Tennessee, which accepts 68% of applicants, decided a year and a half ago to bring the tests back .

The tests were criticized long before the pandemic as giving an unfair boost to more affluent students who could afford tutoring. And it’s true that scores are closely correlated with family income. But the pause in testing gave colleges a chance to study the issue more closely. They found that SAT scores were extremely effective at predicting whether students would succeed in college.

LOS ANGELES, CA - MAY 13: A graduate with a decorated cap attends The University of Southern California's 2022 commencement ceremony on Friday, May 13, 2022 in Los Angeles, CA. (Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times)

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No one should be surprised. The University of California convened a panel several years ago to study the issue at length and it reached the same conclusion . The standardized tests were more equitable than grades, the panel said, because grade inflation is more pervasive at affluent schools. Yet UC refuses to consider test scores, after bowing to pressure from critics. We hope that the trend toward reinstating the tests in admissions makes UC leaders rethink this position.

Making the tests optional was actually counterproductive, Dartmouth, Yale and Brown found. Their applicant pools became less diverse, because low-income students and students of color were less likely to apply even if they had good test scores, thinking they hadn’t tested well enough.

The whole debate has sadly ignored the bigger factors perpetuating the uneven playing field of college admissions. Yes, rich students can receive SAT tutoring, and it helps, though only a little. The most rigorous study of the topic found that tutoring could raise scores by about 20 points.

CLAREMONT, CA - APRIL 12: A campus tour takes place at Claremont McKenna College on Monday, April 12, 2021 in Claremont, CA. The school has reopened in-person tours after shutting them down last year amid the pandemic. The college tour is a key aid in helping students make their big decisions. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

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Legacy admission is on the wane but colleges are doubling down on early decision, another admissions practice that favor the wealthy.

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Meanwhile, some aspects of college admission tilt the field in favor of wealthier students more than test scores do. For example, teachers at more affluent schools have more time for writing letters of recommendation for college applications than teachers at low-income schools.

Athletes continue to get the upper hand on acceptance , and not just in commonly played games like football and soccer that most students have access to in high school. Golf, equestrian, fencing, gymnastics and crew are among the sports that require families to pay for their children to participate, and those athletes also get preferential treatment in college admissions.

Essays can be coached, heavily edited or even written by college consultants for a fee. A 2021 study at Stanford University found that the quality of essay content was closely correlated with family income among University of California applicants. Yet UC kept the essays and got rid of the tests.

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There is nothing inherently evil about the SAT or ACT. It all depends on how they’re used. They can act as a reality check — a student who didn’t get great grades might show a lot of potential in the test scores, and vice versa. And, as UC did before it scrapped the tests , colleges should consider the scores in context, such as, is this the best score in a generally low-scoring high school? A score might reflect the education at that school, not the student’s aptitude for college work.

These latest changes also point to a larger problem in admissions at selective colleges: Every school seemingly wants different things. Some want high SAT scores, others care more about AP exams, and others don’t want any standardized test scores. Some enhance grade-point averages depending on how tough the courses are, others don’t, and others in just some cases.

Of course, schools have a right to seek out the students who will fit best at their institution. But the lack of transparency and consistency has given rise to a nearly $3-billion-a-year industry of pricey college-admissions consultants.

Talk about tilting the playing field.

Editorial: Not every student needs Algebra 2. UC should be flexible on math requirement

March 28, 2024

San Gabriel, CA, Wednesday, March 13, 2024 - San Gabriel High School teacher Leah Ruiz teaches a statistics lesson determining the likelihood men or women will be victims in horror movies. The University of California is weighing what kind of data science classes can count as math for admission, a controversial issues many STEM faculty who want rigorous standards against equity advocates who say alternative pathways to the algebra-calculus track such as data science will benefit more diverse students. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

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March 22, 2024

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Guest Essay

How the SAT Changed My Life

An illustration of a man lying underneath a giant SAT prep book. The book makes a tent over him. He is smiling.

By Emi Nietfeld

Ms. Nietfeld is the author of the memoir “Acceptance.”

This month, the University of Texas, Austin, joined the wave of selective schools reversing Covid-era test-optional admissions policies, once again requiring applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores.

Many colleges have embraced the test-optional rule under the assumption that it bolsters equity and diversity, since higher scores are correlated with privilege. But it turns out that these policies harmed the teenagers they were supposed to help. Many low-income and minority applicants withheld scores that could have gotten them in, wrongly assuming that their scores were too low, according to an analysis by Dartmouth. More top universities are sure to join the reversal. This is a good thing.

I was one of the disadvantaged youths who are often failed by test-optional policies, striving to get into college while in foster care and homeless. We hear a lot about the efforts of these elite schools to attract diverse student bodies and about debates around the best way to assemble a class. What these conversations overlook is the hope these tests offer students who are in difficult situations.

For many of us, standardized tests provided our one shot to prove our potential, despite the obstacles in our lives or the untidy pasts we had. We found solace in the objectivity of a hard number and a process that — unlike many things in our lives — we could control. I will always feel tenderness toward the Scantron sheets that unlocked higher education and a better life.

Growing up, I fantasized about escaping the chaos of my family for the peace of a grassy quad. Both my parents had mental health issues. My adolescence was its own mess. Over two years I took a dozen psychiatric drugs while attending four different high school programs. At 14, I was sent to a locked facility where my education consisted of work sheets and reading aloud in an on-site classroom. In a life skills class, we learned how to get our G.E.D.s. My college dreams began to seem like delusions.

Then one afternoon a staff member handed me a library copy of “Barron’s Guide to the ACT .” I leafed through the onionskin pages and felt a thunderclap of possibility. I couldn’t go to the bathroom without permission, let alone take Advanced Placement Latin or play water polo or do something else that would impress elite colleges. But I could teach myself the years of math I’d missed while switching schools and improve my life in this one specific way.

After nine months in the institution, I entered foster care. I started my sophomore year at yet another high school, only to have my foster parents shuffle my course load at midyear, when they decided Advanced Placement classes were bad for me. In part because of academic instability like this, only 3 percent to 4 percent of former foster youth get a four-year college degree.

Later I bounced between friends’ sofas and the back seat of my rusty Corolla, using my new-to-me SAT prep book as a pillow. I had no idea when I’d next shower, but I could crack open practice problems and dip into a meditative trance. For those moments, everything was still, the terror of my daily life softened by the fantasy that my efforts might land me in a dorm room of my own, with endless hot water and an extra-long twin bed.

Standardized tests allowed me to look forward, even as every other part of college applications focused on the past. The song and dance of personal statements required me to demonstrate all the obstacles I’d overcome while I was still in the middle of them. When shilling my trauma left me gutted and raw, researching answer elimination strategies was a balm. I could focus on equations and readings, like the scholar I wanted to be, rather than the desperate teenager that I was.

Test-optional policies would have confounded me, but in the 2009-10 admissions cycle, I had to submit my scores; my fellow hopefuls and I were all in this together, slogging through multiple-choice questions until our backs ached and our eyes crossed.

The hope these exams instilled in me wasn’t abstract: It manifested in hundreds of glossy brochures. After I took the PSAT in my junior year, universities that had received my score flooded me with letters urging me to apply. For once, I felt wanted. These marketing materials informed me that the top universities offered generous financial aid that would allow me to attend free. I set my sights higher, despite my guidance counselor’s lack of faith.

When I took the actual SAT, I was ashamed of my score. Had submitting it been optional, I most likely wouldn’t have done it, because I suspected my score was lower than the prep-school applicants I was up against (exactly what Dartmouth found in the analysis that led it to reinstate testing requirements). When you grow up the way I did, it’s difficult to believe that you are ever good enough.

When I got into Harvard, it felt like a miracle splitting my life into a before and after. My exam preparation paid off on campus — it was the only reason I knew geometry or grammar — and it motivated me to tackle new, difficult topics. I majored in computer science, having never written a line of code. Though a career as a software engineer seemed far-fetched, I used my SAT study strategies to prepare for technical interviews (in which you’re given one or more problems to solve) that landed me the stable, lucrative Google job that catapulted me out of financial insecurity.

I’m not the only one who feels affection for these tests. At Harvard, I met other students who saw these exams as the one door they could unlock that opened into a new future. I was lucky that the tests offered me hope all along, that I could cling to the promise that one day I could bubble in a test form and find myself transported into a better life — the one I lead today.

Emi Nietfeld is the author of the memoir “ Acceptance .” Previously, she was a software engineer at Google and Facebook.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how long is the sat with extended time.

SAT General Info

Students with documented disabilities may be eligible to receive extended time on one or more sections of the SAT. The options for extended time vary by student and must be approved ahead of the testing date by College Board's Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD).

If you're a student, parent, or educator interested in extra time accommodations on the SAT, read on to learn about the different options and how long each one makes the SAT. First, let's briefly review who qualifies for additional time.

Who's Eligible for Extended Time on the SAT?

In order to qualify for extended time on the SAT, students must have a documented disability that constitutes a "relevant functional limitation." In other words, their disability impacts their ability to take the SAT, and extended time may help them improve their performance. These disabilities include visual, physical, medical, and motor impairments and learning disorders.

Generally, eligible students will have an established Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 plan with their school. However, having a plan or accommodations for extra time at school doesn't necessarily guarantee them extra time on the SAT. A qualified school coordinator must make an official request to College Board and provide all the necessary documentation. Since approval takes about seven weeks, she should start this process early.

When making the request, the coordinator will indicate whether the student needs extended time for reading, mathematical calculation, written expression, or listening/speaking (for SAT Subject Tests). If the coordinator specifies extended time on reading, then the student will typically get extended time on all SAT sections, as they all require reading of some form.

Apart from differences in time per section, what other options does College Board offer for extended time on the SAT?

What Are the Options for Extended Time on the SAT?

There are three options for extended time on the SAT: time and a half, double time, and 150% additional time. The amount of time students get varies depending on whether they take the SAT without the optional essay or the SAT with the essay section. Below, you can see the amount of time students get with each extended time option.

Time and a Half

The most common option for extended time on the SAT lengthens it by 50%. Time and a half makes the SAT without the optional essay a total of 4 hours and 30 minutes and the SAT with the essay a total of 5 hours and 45 minutes. Students with time and a half take the SAT at the usual time and place, on a Saturday morning at their testing center of choice.

Double Time

The second option is double time, or 100% additional time, for a total of 6 hours on the SAT without essay or 7 hours and 40 minutes for the SAT with essay. Students with double time typically take the SAT over the course of two days at their school.

150% Additional Time

Finally, in rare cases students may be granted 150% additional time and get 7 hours and 30 minutes on the SAT without essay and 9 hours and 35 minutes on the SAT with essay. Like students with double time, students with 150% additional time typically take the SAT over the course of two days at their school , rather than take it at the official testing center. They would sit with a school coordinator, generally one on one, unless there were another student or two with similar accommodations.

While the above mentioned times technically describe the length of the test, the actual experience is longer due to breaks and time for instructions . Considering these factors, how long will the SAT with accommodations actually take?

Ready with your planner?

The times above describe how much time a student has to complete the Reading , Writing , and Math sections, but they don't include breaks, instructions, or other logistics of the test-taking experience, like passing out and collecting the test booklets. Students with extended time must stay for the entire designated time , even if they finish early. They also can't flip between sections or self-pace, but instead must stay on each individual section until time has been called.

Without accommodations, the SAT is 3 hours with the essay or 3 hours and 50 minutes with the essay. Without the essay, students get two breaks totaling about 10 minutes. With the essay, students get three breaks for a total break time of about 15 minutes.

Extended time doesn't include extended or extra breaks unless a specific request has been made and approved. For most students with extended time, therefore, you can just add 10 or 15 minutes of break time and 30 to 60 minutes for administrative tasks to get a sense of how long the SAT will be.

In the charts below for the SAT without essay and SAT with essay, I added 30 minutes for check in, instruction, filling out personal information on the tests, and finishing up. In a testing room with a lot of students, it may take a bit longer . For students testing individually or in small groups, check in may take a little less time . Here are my estimates for each extended time option to answer the question, how long is the SAT with breaks ?

SAT Without Essay

Sat with essay.

Taking the SAT takes a lot of time, energy, and focus. Students definitely don't want to add to their stress by showing up late, and when finished they're probably eager to head home. So what's a safe time for pick up and drop off for students taking the SAT with extended time?

Safe Times for Drop Off and Pick Up

As mentioned above, students with 50% additional time will take the SAT on Saturday morning at their preferred testing center. They should plan to arrive by 7:45. The SAT is administered between 8:30 and 9:00. Students with time and a half will be finished and ready to be picked up around 1:40 PM or 3:00 PM, depending on whether or not they're taking the essay section.

Students with more time will take the test over the course of two days at their school under the supervision of a designated administrator. Their timing will vary. Usually students who start at 8:30 AM test until around noon and then resume the next day.

These accommodations are meant to improve the test-taking experience for students and meet their needs. Since the SAT is time intensive, students, parents, and coordinators should make sure to know the ins and outs of the process and options for extended time. Below are the key points to remember.

Key Points

It takes about seven weeks for College Board to approve SAT accommodations, so gather your documentation and make your requests early.

The most common option for extended time is 50% additional time, though some students will get more or only qualify for extra time on certain sections.

Students decide whether or not to take the essay section when they register.

Students with time and a half will spend from around 7:45 AM to 1:40 or 3:00 PM at their testing center (depending on if they take the essay or not).

Extended time does not automatically include extended or extra breaks, so you need to make these requests separately.

Students must stay for their entire designated testing time, so even if they finish early, the above schedule will still apply.

Extended time can be a huge help for students with functional limitations, like reading comprehension or attention issues. Make your requests specific and supported by in-depth documentation, and leave extra time in case you need to appeal College Board's decision. Since the SAT is such an important test, you want to make sure you or your student is getting the accommodations she needs to see her best results.

What's Next?

Apart from extended time, what other accommodations are available to students taking the SAT? Read our full guide on SAT accommodations and how to get them here .

Now that you know how long the entire SAT will take, what about each individual section? Answer any questions you have about exactly how long the SAT is here .

Want to score a super high SAT score? Get all the tips and expert advice you need in our guide to getting a perfect SAT score .

Disappointed with your scores? Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points? We've written a guide about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

Rebecca graduated with her Master's in Adolescent Counseling from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She has years of teaching and college counseling experience and is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and improve their well-being. She graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University and scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT.

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The SAT is coming back at some colleges. It’s stressing everyone out.

A patchwork of admissions test policies is wreaking havoc on students, parents and college admissions consultants.

A California mother drove 80 miles this month to find an SAT testing center with an open seat where her high school junior could take the exam. During college tours this spring, a teen recalled hearing some would-be applicants groan when admissions staffers announced they could not guarantee test-optional policies would continue.

And across the country, college counselors are fielding questions from teenagers alarmed, encouraged or simply confused by what seems like the return of the standardized test in admissions — maybe? Sort of? In some places, but not in others?

“You could be expecting and preparing for a certain way to apply to a college and present yourself — but then they change it mid-application process,” said Kai Talbert, a 17-year-old high school junior in Pennsylvania. “That’s really confusing. It can set back a lot of people.”

Colleges nationwide have been updating their coronavirus-era policies on standardized testing, which many dropped when the pandemic shut down in-person testing centers. Some of the most selective schools are declaring they will require tests again — including, across the last two months, Dartmouth College and Yale and Brown universities. Others, such as the University of Chicago and Columbia University, won’t. And still others have not yet picked a permanent policy: Princeton, Stanford, Cornell and the University of Pennsylvania have said they will remain test-optional for another year or two, and Harvard University plans to keep its test-optional policy at least through the 2025-26 application cycle.

Public universities have veered in different directions, too: The University of Tennessee system requires tests. The University of Michigan will be test-optional. The University of California system is test-blind, meaning schools refuse to consider SAT or ACT scores for admissions.

The patchwork of policies is wreaking havoc on applicants, parents and college admissions consultants nationwide, who are being forced to recalculate where and how they are willing to apply — or what to tell anxious teenagers about whether to test, retest or skip testing entirely — as decisions keep rolling out in real time.

Laurie Kopp Weingarten, founder of One-Stop College Counseling in New Jersey, said she has a new response whenever a student gives her a list of their school targets. She starts by going down the list, school by school, to review each institution’s testing rules and whether those seem likely to change.

Taking a breath, Weingarten rattled off a summary of the different testing requirements in place at every Ivy League school. It took her three minutes.

“Even just saying it, it sounds like insanity to me, and then we’re expecting kids to understand this?” Weingarten said. “Colleges should really analyze the data, come up with a decision and stop changing their mind.”

The shifting testing expectations are among many changes roiling college admissions this year. Colleges are still grappling with the fallout from the landmark Supreme Court ruling that ended the use of race-based affirmative action in admissions. Many are undertaking an array of experiments in response to the decision in a bid to maintain diverse admitted classes — ending legacy preferences in some cases, adding essay prompts on adversity or identity in others, or increasing outreach in low-income areas.

And the disastrous rollout of a federal financial aid form that was supposed to simplify the notoriously difficult process has left students, parents and schools scrambling .

This is the most hectic and distressing admissions cycle in recent memory, said Jennifer Nuechterlein, a college and career counselor at a New Jersey high school. She laid special blame on schools that reinstated testing mandates in the past two months, some of which affect the high school juniors who will begin applying in the fall. This class of teens will have to take the SAT or ACT, should they decide to do so, within the next six months.

“Students can’t just test overnight,” Nuechterlein said. “There are students who want to prep, there are students who are not math- or English-ready. ... Students are going to be unprepared.”

For the most ambitious, high-achieving students, the tests are another stressful hurdle to clear as they apply to the most selective colleges. And for many other students, the test scores — even if not required for admission — are mandatory if they want to qualify for some financial aid programs or, on some campuses, certain degree programs.

Critics of standardized tests have argued that they mirror, or exacerbate, societal inequities, in part because students from unstable homes or with limited resources cannot afford SAT or ACT tutors or testing preparation classes, or may not know of free resources such as Khan Academy . Even before the pandemic, some schools had moved to make the scores optional to avoid creating another barrier for students.

Then the pandemic hit, spurring a crisis response when students literally could not access spaces in which to take standardized tests, said Dominique J. Baker, a University of Delaware associate professor of education and public policy who studies admissions policies.

“There were a number of institutions that never would have chosen to have gone test-optional except the pandemic made them,” she said. “Those institutions, by and large, are going back to requiring test scores.”

MIT, Georgetown University and the University of Florida are among schools that quickly chose to reinstate the requirements, with MIT announcing the change in 2022. Many others have spent the years since the virus arrived studying what effect going test-optional had on their admitted classes.

At Brown, Yale and Dartmouth, officials said they had found something surprising: Considering test scores would help them identify more promising applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds, not fewer. After looking at their own data, leaders at the three Ivy League schools say they concluded that SAT and ACT scores are highly predictive of students’ academic performance in college, more so than high school grades. They also found that some less-advantaged students withheld their scores when sharing them would have boosted their chances.

Depriving admissions officers of SAT and ACT scores meant they were less able to evaluate an applicant’s chances of thriving at Brown, Provost Francis J. Doyle III said in an interview this month .

“Our analysis suggested our admissions could be more effective if we brought back testing as an instrument,” Doyle said.

The University of Texas at Austin is also choosing to require testing again, the school announced earlier this month. Jay Hartzell, the school’s president, said he and others worried the cost and preparation associated with the tests could keep students from applying. But about 90 percent of UT Austin applicants in the latest round took the SAT even though it was optional, Hartzell said. And the school found that students who declined to submit scores were less successful once enrolled.

John Friedman, a professor of economics and international and public affairs at Brown, said he wouldn’t be surprised if more of those highly selective schools reinstate a testing requirement. He was one of the authors of the study from Opportunity Insights, a nonprofit at Harvard University, on standardized test scores and student performance at a dozen “Ivy-plus” universities.

“It’s not just about the test scores being a good predictor,” he said. “We show in the paper that students who attend a school, having been admitted without a test score, perform at the bottom of the distribution.” He said schools should look at their own data to determine their policy.

Nonetheless, most schools nationwide will probably remain test-optional, predicted Angel Pérez, the chief executive of the National Association for College Admission Counseling. For many institutions, he said, the policy has been a huge success, bumping up the number of applicants and diversifying admitted classes.

He added that most American high-schoolers are applying to schools that admit nearly all applicants, to public schools or to colleges close to home, he said: “So the majority of students aren’t going to be impacted.”

Morehouse College is among those maintaining a test-optional policy, which the historically Black college adopted in 2020. Since going test-optional, Morehouse has seen an increased number of applicants and an increased acceptance rate from admitted students, said Michael Gumm, Morehouse’s director of admissions and recruitment.

The majority of Morehouse applicants choose not to submit scores, Gumm said, and more students are completing their applications than in the past. He said Morehouse is looking for leaders, so essays and letters of recommendation carry a lot of weight.

Gumm said he often preaches to students: “Your test scores do not make you who you are.”

But for some students, the tests remain a priority. Alina Bunch, a 16-year-old high school junior in Texas, said that even when she saw schools dropping test requirements, she never altered her plan to take the ACT. The exam, she says, is a way to demonstrate determination and academic rigor.

She thinks it’s generally a good thing that schools are bringing back testing requirements, because they can function as a mechanism of standardization in a sometimes subjective admissions process. She does fear the effects of reinstating test requirements for students who cannot afford tutoring.

But for herself — after taking a summer course to prepare for the ACT and scoring high on the exam — she has no real worries. “It was never a question for me, of whether I should do it or not,” Alina said.

Many students pursued similar strategies, continuing to take standardized tests throughout the test-optional trend. After a dramatic drop in 2020 spurred by the sudden closure of test sites, the number of students taking the SAT nationally has risen every year since, per the College Board, and reached 1.9 million for the class of 2023. That’s about 300,000 short of the last pre-pandemic total, when 2.2 million members of the class of 2019 sat for the exam — the largest-ever group to do so.

Joan Koven, who heads college consulting company Academic Access in Pennsylvania, said she never expected standardized testing to suffer a real drop in popularity.

“The ACTs and the SATs are Burger King and McDonald’s,” she said. “They’re not going away.”

But in some places, counselors wish they would. Priscilla Grijalva, a high school counselor in California’s San Jacinto Unified School District, said the elimination of test requirements in the UC system and California State University campuses was a godsend for the nearly 300 students she works with every year, a mix of White, Black and Latino teens, most of whom are socioeconomically disadvantaged.

In the past, many of her students applied only to community colleges. But now she has seen a sharp rise in those willing to aim for state universities.

“It has changed our students’ mindsets,” Grijalva said. “Now it’s like, ‘Hey, I can do this.’ They’re more confident in their leadership and their grades.”

But the flurry of recent announcements from schools altering their testing rules has proved alarming, she said. Her students “do feel the pressure coming back,” she said. “They’re starting to talk.”

Claire Elkin, 16, overheard some of this nervous chatter when she was touring colleges this spring with her family — making visits to places including the University of Virginia, Vanderbilt University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. At every school, recalled Claire, who took the ACT and intends to submit her scores, admissions tour leaders said something like: “Yeah, we’re test-optional now, but we can’t guarantee anything for you.”

Every time, the crowds of hopefuls around Claire broke into murmurs that ranged from anguished to angry, she said. She remembered one family whose daughters seemed especially upset, spurring the mother to jump into emergency action trying to calm the girls as the admissions presentation continued.

“A lot of kids my age can’t set a path right now for what they should be prioritizing when they’re applying for schools,” Claire said. “So there is definitely more panic.”

An earlier version of this article included incorrect information about the rise in the number of students who have taken the SAT since a drop sparked by the pandemic. The number of students taking the test reached 1.9 million for the class of 2023, about 300,000 fewer than for the class of 2019. The article has been corrected.

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The Case for Marrying an Older Man

A woman’s life is all work and little rest. An age gap relationship can help.

In the summer, in the south of France, my husband and I like to play, rather badly, the lottery. We take long, scorching walks to the village — gratuitous beauty, gratuitous heat — kicking up dust and languid debates over how we’d spend such an influx. I purchase scratch-offs, jackpot tickets, scraping the former with euro coins in restaurants too fine for that. I never cash them in, nor do I check the winning numbers. For I already won something like the lotto, with its gifts and its curses, when he married me.

He is ten years older than I am. I chose him on purpose, not by chance. As far as life decisions go, on balance, I recommend it.

When I was 20 and a junior at Harvard College, a series of great ironies began to mock me. I could study all I wanted, prove myself as exceptional as I liked, and still my fiercest advantage remained so universal it deflated my other plans. My youth. The newness of my face and body. Compellingly effortless; cruelly fleeting. I shared it with the average, idle young woman shrugging down the street. The thought, when it descended on me, jolted my perspective, the way a falling leaf can make you look up: I could diligently craft an ideal existence, over years and years of sleepless nights and industry. Or I could just marry it early.

So naturally I began to lug a heavy suitcase of books each Saturday to the Harvard Business School to work on my Nabokov paper. In one cavernous, well-appointed room sat approximately 50 of the planet’s most suitable bachelors. I had high breasts, most of my eggs, plausible deniability when it came to purity, a flush ponytail, a pep in my step that had yet to run out. Apologies to Progress, but older men still desired those things.

I could not understand why my female classmates did not join me, given their intelligence. Each time I reconsidered the project, it struck me as more reasonable. Why ignore our youth when it amounted to a superpower? Why assume the burdens of womanhood, its too-quick-to-vanish upper hand, but not its brief benefits at least? Perhaps it came easier to avoid the topic wholesale than to accept that women really do have a tragically short window of power, and reason enough to take advantage of that fact while they can. As for me, I liked history, Victorian novels, knew of imminent female pitfalls from all the books I’d read: vampiric boyfriends; labor, at the office and in the hospital, expected simultaneously; a decline in status as we aged, like a looming eclipse. I’d have disliked being called calculating, but I had, like all women, a calculator in my head. I thought it silly to ignore its answers when they pointed to an unfairness for which we really ought to have been preparing.

I was competitive by nature, an English-literature student with all the corresponding major ambitions and minor prospects (Great American novel; email job). A little Bovarist , frantic for new places and ideas; to travel here, to travel there, to be in the room where things happened. I resented the callow boys in my class, who lusted after a particular, socially sanctioned type on campus: thin and sexless, emotionally detached and socially connected, the opposite of me. Restless one Saturday night, I slipped on a red dress and snuck into a graduate-school event, coiling an HDMI cord around my wrist as proof of some technical duty. I danced. I drank for free, until one of the organizers asked me to leave. I called and climbed into an Uber. Then I promptly climbed out of it. For there he was, emerging from the revolving doors. Brown eyes, curved lips, immaculate jacket. I went to him, asked him for a cigarette. A date, days later. A second one, where I discovered he was a person, potentially my favorite kind: funny, clear-eyed, brilliant, on intimate terms with the universe.

I used to love men like men love women — that is, not very well, and with a hunger driven only by my own inadequacies. Not him. In those early days, I spoke fondly of my family, stocked the fridge with his favorite pasta, folded his clothes more neatly than I ever have since. I wrote his mother a thank-you note for hosting me in his native France, something befitting a daughter-in-law. It worked; I meant it. After graduation and my fellowship at Oxford, I stayed in Europe for his career and married him at 23.

Of course I just fell in love. Romances have a setting; I had only intervened to place myself well. Mainly, I spotted the precise trouble of being a woman ahead of time, tried to surf it instead of letting it drown me on principle. I had grown bored of discussions of fair and unfair, equal or unequal , and preferred instead to consider a thing called ease.

The reception of a particular age-gap relationship depends on its obviousness. The greater and more visible the difference in years and status between a man and a woman, the more it strikes others as transactional. Transactional thinking in relationships is both as American as it gets and the least kosher subject in the American romantic lexicon. When a 50-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman walk down the street, the questions form themselves inside of you; they make you feel cynical and obscene: How good of a deal is that? Which party is getting the better one? Would I take it? He is older. Income rises with age, so we assume he has money, at least relative to her; at minimum, more connections and experience. She has supple skin. Energy. Sex. Maybe she gets a Birkin. Maybe he gets a baby long after his prime. The sight of their entwined hands throws a lucid light on the calculations each of us makes, in love, to varying degrees of denial. You could get married in the most romantic place in the world, like I did, and you would still have to sign a contract.

Twenty and 30 is not like 30 and 40; some freshness to my features back then, some clumsiness in my bearing, warped our decade, in the eyes of others, to an uncrossable gulf. Perhaps this explains the anger we felt directed at us at the start of our relationship. People seemed to take us very, very personally. I recall a hellish car ride with a friend of his who began to castigate me in the backseat, in tones so low that only I could hear him. He told me, You wanted a rich boyfriend. You chased and snuck into parties . He spared me the insult of gold digger, but he drew, with other words, the outline for it. Most offended were the single older women, my husband’s classmates. They discussed me in the bathroom at parties when I was in the stall. What does he see in her? What do they talk about? They were concerned about me. They wielded their concern like a bludgeon. They paraphrased without meaning to my favorite line from Nabokov’s Lolita : “You took advantage of my disadvantage,” suspecting me of some weakness he in turn mined. It did not disturb them, so much, to consider that all relationships were trades. The trouble was the trade I’d made struck them as a bad one.

The truth is you can fall in love with someone for all sorts of reasons, tiny transactions, pluses and minuses, whose sum is your affection for each other, your loyalty, your commitment. The way someone picks up your favorite croissant. Their habit of listening hard. What they do for you on your anniversary and your reciprocal gesture, wrapped thoughtfully. The serenity they inspire; your happiness, enlivening it. When someone says they feel unappreciated, what they really mean is you’re in debt to them.

When I think of same-age, same-stage relationships, what I tend to picture is a woman who is doing too much for too little.

I’m 27 now, and most women my age have “partners.” These days, girls become partners quite young. A partner is supposed to be a modern answer to the oppression of marriage, the terrible feeling of someone looming over you, head of a household to which you can only ever be the neck. Necks are vulnerable. The problem with a partner, however, is if you’re equal in all things, you compromise in all things. And men are too skilled at taking .

There is a boy out there who knows how to floss because my friend taught him. Now he kisses college girls with fresh breath. A boy married to my friend who doesn’t know how to pack his own suitcase. She “likes to do it for him.” A million boys who know how to touch a woman, who go to therapy because they were pushed, who learned fidelity, boundaries, decency, manners, to use a top sheet and act humanely beneath it, to call their mothers, match colors, bring flowers to a funeral and inhale, exhale in the face of rage, because some girl, some girl we know, some girl they probably don’t speak to and will never, ever credit, took the time to teach him. All while she was working, raising herself, clawing up the cliff-face of adulthood. Hauling him at her own expense.

I find a post on Reddit where five thousand men try to define “ a woman’s touch .” They describe raised flower beds, blankets, photographs of their loved ones, not hers, sprouting on the mantel overnight. Candles, coasters, side tables. Someone remembering to take lint out of the dryer. To give compliments. I wonder what these women are getting back. I imagine them like Cinderella’s mice, scurrying around, their sole proof of life their contributions to a more central character. On occasion I meet a nice couple, who grew up together. They know each other with a fraternalism tender and alien to me. But I think of all my friends who failed at this, were failed at this, and I think, No, absolutely not, too risky . Riskier, sometimes, than an age gap.

My younger brother is in his early 20s, handsome, successful, but in many ways: an endearing disaster. By his age, I had long since wisened up. He leaves his clothes in the dryer, takes out a single shirt, steams it for three minutes. His towel on the floor, for someone else to retrieve. His lovely, same-age girlfriend is aching to fix these tendencies, among others. She is capable beyond words. Statistically, they will not end up together. He moved into his first place recently, and she, the girlfriend, supplied him with a long, detailed list of things he needed for his apartment: sheets, towels, hangers, a colander, which made me laugh. She picked out his couch. I will bet you anything she will fix his laundry habits, and if so, they will impress the next girl. If they break up, she will never see that couch again, and he will forget its story. I tell her when I visit because I like her, though I get in trouble for it: You shouldn’t do so much for him, not for someone who is not stuck with you, not for any boy, not even for my wonderful brother.

Too much work had left my husband, by 30, jaded and uninspired. He’d burned out — but I could reenchant things. I danced at restaurants when they played a song I liked. I turned grocery shopping into an adventure, pleased by what I provided. Ambitious, hungry, he needed someone smart enough to sustain his interest, but flexible enough in her habits to build them around his hours. I could. I do: read myself occupied, make myself free, materialize beside him when he calls for me. In exchange, I left a lucrative but deadening spreadsheet job to write full-time, without having to live like a writer. I learned to cook, a little, and decorate, somewhat poorly. Mostly I get to read, to walk central London and Miami and think in delicious circles, to work hard, when necessary, for free, and write stories for far less than minimum wage when I tally all the hours I take to write them.

At 20, I had felt daunted by the project of becoming my ideal self, couldn’t imagine doing it in tandem with someone, two raw lumps of clay trying to mold one another and only sullying things worse. I’d go on dates with boys my age and leave with the impression they were telling me not about themselves but some person who didn’t exist yet and on whom I was meant to bet regardless. My husband struck me instead as so finished, formed. Analyzable for compatibility. He bore the traces of other women who’d improved him, small but crucial basics like use a coaster ; listen, don’t give advice. Young egos mellow into patience and generosity.

My husband isn’t my partner. He’s my mentor, my lover, and, only in certain contexts, my friend. I’ll never forget it, how he showed me around our first place like he was introducing me to myself: This is the wine you’ll drink, where you’ll keep your clothes, we vacation here, this is the other language we’ll speak, you’ll learn it, and I did. Adulthood seemed a series of exhausting obligations. But his logistics ran so smoothly that he simply tacked mine on. I moved into his flat, onto his level, drag and drop, cleaner thrice a week, bills automatic. By opting out of partnership in my 20s, I granted myself a kind of compartmentalized, liberating selfishness none of my friends have managed. I am the work in progress, the party we worry about, a surprising dominance. When I searched for my first job, at 21, we combined our efforts, for my sake. He had wisdom to impart, contacts with whom he arranged coffees; we spent an afternoon, laughing, drawing up earnest lists of my pros and cons (highly sociable; sloppy math). Meanwhile, I took calls from a dear friend who had a boyfriend her age. Both savagely ambitious, hyperclose and entwined in each other’s projects. If each was a start-up , the other was the first hire, an intense dedication I found riveting. Yet every time she called me, I hung up with the distinct feeling that too much was happening at the same time: both learning to please a boss; to forge more adult relationships with their families; to pay bills and taxes and hang prints on the wall. Neither had any advice to give and certainly no stability. I pictured a three-legged race, two people tied together and hobbling toward every milestone.

I don’t fool myself. My marriage has its cons. There are only so many times one can say “thank you” — for splendid scenes, fine dinners — before the phrase starts to grate. I live in an apartment whose rent he pays and that shapes the freedom with which I can ever be angry with him. He doesn’t have to hold it over my head. It just floats there, complicating usual shorthands to explain dissatisfaction like, You aren’t being supportive lately . It’s a Frenchism to say, “Take a decision,” and from time to time I joke: from whom? Occasionally I find myself in some fabulous country at some fabulous party and I think what a long way I have traveled, like a lucky cloud, and it is frightening to think of oneself as vapor.

Mostly I worry that if he ever betrayed me and I had to move on, I would survive, but would find in my humor, preferences, the way I make coffee or the bed nothing that he did not teach, change, mold, recompose, stamp with his initials, the way Renaissance painters hid in their paintings their faces among a crowd. I wonder if when they looked at their paintings, they saw their own faces first. But this is the wrong question, if our aim is happiness. Like the other question on which I’m expected to dwell: Who is in charge, the man who drives or the woman who put him there so she could enjoy herself? I sit in the car, in the painting it would have taken me a corporate job and 20 years to paint alone, and my concern over who has the upper hand becomes as distant as the horizon, the one he and I made so wide for me.

To be a woman is to race against the clock, in several ways, until there is nothing left to be but run ragged.

We try to put it off, but it will hit us at some point: that we live in a world in which our power has a different shape from that of men, a different distribution of advantage, ours a funnel and theirs an expanding cone. A woman at 20 rarely has to earn her welcome; a boy at 20 will be turned away at the door. A woman at 30 may find a younger woman has taken her seat; a man at 30 will have invited her. I think back to the women in the bathroom, my husband’s classmates. What was my relationship if not an inconvertible sign of this unfairness? What was I doing, in marrying older, if not endorsing it? I had taken advantage of their disadvantage. I had preempted my own. After all, principled women are meant to defy unfairness, to show some integrity or denial, not plan around it, like I had. These were driven women, successful, beautiful, capable. I merely possessed the one thing they had already lost. In getting ahead of the problem, had I pushed them down? If I hadn’t, would it really have made any difference?

When we decided we wanted to be equal to men, we got on men’s time. We worked when they worked, retired when they retired, had to squeeze pregnancy, children, menopause somewhere impossibly in the margins. I have a friend, in her late 20s, who wears a mood ring; these days it is often red, flickering in the air like a siren when she explains her predicament to me. She has raised her fair share of same-age boyfriends. She has put her head down, worked laboriously alongside them, too. At last she is beginning to reap the dividends, earning the income to finally enjoy herself. But it is now, exactly at this precipice of freedom and pleasure, that a time problem comes closing in. If she would like to have children before 35, she must begin her next profession, motherhood, rather soon, compromising inevitably her original one. The same-age partner, equally unsettled in his career, will take only the minimum time off, she guesses, or else pay some cost which will come back to bite her. Everything unfailingly does. If she freezes her eggs to buy time, the decision and its logistics will burden her singly — and perhaps it will not work. Overlay the years a woman is supposed to establish herself in her career and her fertility window and it’s a perfect, miserable circle. By midlife women report feeling invisible, undervalued; it is a telling cliché, that after all this, some husbands leave for a younger girl. So when is her time, exactly? For leisure, ease, liberty? There is no brand of feminism which achieved female rest. If women’s problem in the ’50s was a paralyzing malaise, now it is that they are too active, too capable, never permitted a vacation they didn’t plan. It’s not that our efforts to have it all were fated for failure. They simply weren’t imaginative enough.

For me, my relationship, with its age gap, has alleviated this rush , permitted me to massage the clock, shift its hands to my benefit. Very soon, we will decide to have children, and I don’t panic over last gasps of fun, because I took so many big breaths of it early: on the holidays of someone who had worked a decade longer than I had, in beautiful places when I was young and beautiful, a symmetry I recommend. If such a thing as maternal energy exists, mine was never depleted. I spent the last nearly seven years supported more than I support and I am still not as old as my husband was when he met me. When I have a child, I will expect more help from him than I would if he were younger, for what does professional tenure earn you if not the right to set more limits on work demands — or, if not, to secure some child care, at the very least? When I return to work after maternal upheaval, he will aid me, as he’s always had, with his ability to put himself aside, as younger men are rarely able.

Above all, the great gift of my marriage is flexibility. A chance to live my life before I become responsible for someone else’s — a lover’s, or a child’s. A chance to write. A chance at a destiny that doesn’t adhere rigidly to the routines and timelines of men, but lends itself instead to roomy accommodation, to the very fluidity Betty Friedan dreamed of in 1963 in The Feminine Mystique , but we’ve largely forgotten: some career or style of life that “permits year-to-year variation — a full-time paid job in one community, part-time in another, exercise of the professional skill in serious volunteer work or a period of study during pregnancy or early motherhood when a full-time job is not feasible.” Some things are just not feasible in our current structures. Somewhere along the way we stopped admitting that, and all we did was make women feel like personal failures. I dream of new structures, a world in which women have entry-level jobs in their 30s; alternate avenues for promotion; corporate ladders with balconies on which they can stand still, have a smoke, take a break, make a baby, enjoy themselves, before they keep climbing. Perhaps men long for this in their own way. Actually I am sure of that.

Once, when we first fell in love, I put my head in his lap on a long car ride; I remember his hands on my face, the sun, the twisting turns of a mountain road, surprising and not surprising us like our romance, and his voice, telling me that it was his biggest regret that I was so young, he feared he would lose me. Last week, we looked back at old photos and agreed we’d given each other our respective best years. Sometimes real equality is not so obvious, sometimes it takes turns, sometimes it takes almost a decade to reveal itself.

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How Long Does the SAT Take?
The total time for the digital SAT is 2 hours and 14 minutes, not including breaks, and the test consists of: Reading and Writing: 64-minute section with 54 questions (1 minute 11 seconds per question) Math: 70-minute section with 44 questions (1 minute 35 seconds per question) Compared to the ACT®, the SAT® provides 67% more time per question.
Expert Guide: How Long Is the SAT?
The SAT is three hours (180 minutes) long in total, excluding the optional essay and breaks. With the optional essay, the total test time increases to three hours and 50 minutes. Here's an overview of the SAT test length: The Math section is the only section separated into two pieces: a No Calculator and a Calculator section.
SAT Exact Start Time and End Time
SAT End Time Without the Essay. If you choose not to take the essay, ... The essay is 50 minutes long, and you'll get a short break of five to ten minutes before you start writing. That means you can add 55 minutes to an hour to your end time. If you start taking the SAT (with the essay) between 8:30AM and 9:00AM, ...
How Long is the SAT Test?
The total testing time will be 230 minutes (3 hours and 50 minutes). The total duration from start to finish will be 247 minutes (4 hours and 7 minutes). Your total time spent inside the testing area will be at least 277 minutes (4 hours and 37 minutes). Good luck, and enjoy your test prep!
How Long Is The SAT? 2024 Ultimate Guide
How long does the SAT take? The SAT has three sections: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. The Math section consists of 2 tests: with a calculator and without. The SAT test length is 180 minutes or 3 hours, excluding the time for breaks. The optional Essay section, on the other hand, runs for 50 minutes.
How Long Is the SAT With Breaks?
Including breaks, the SAT is exactly four hours and seven minutes long. This time includes all sections (Reading Test, Writing and Language Test, Math No Calculator Test, Math Calculator Test, and optional Essay) as well as all breaks. There are three breaks throughout the test. There is a 10-minute break after the Reading section and a five ...
How Long is the SAT? Your Top Timing Strategies
The SAT test lasts a total of 3 hours without the essay and 3 hours 50 minutes with the essay, including breaks. 2. How is the time divided for each SAT section?
How Long is the SAT?
How Long Does the SAT Take? The SAT clocks in at 3 hours (3 hours and 15 minutes with breaks). And if you choose to sign up for the optional essay , the SAT takes 3 hours and 50 minutes to complete (or 4 hours, 5 minutes with breaks). SAT Test Length by Section. How are those 3 hours broken up by section?
How Long Does the SAT Take?
The exact time that you begin taking your SAT is never determined in advance. Instead, it varies according to how long it takes each testing center to complete registration, seat students, and distribute testing materials. Most SATs begin between 8:30-9:00AM. Once testing has begun, students will no longer be admitted.
How Long the SAT Is and How to Manage That Time
While the majority of colleges were no longer requiring the SAT essay, many students still opted in.According to data from the College Board, which administers the SAT, 57% of nearly 2.2 million ...
Your Guide: How Long is the SAT Without Essay?
The SAT without the essay section is approximately 3 hours long, excluding breaks. The reading section consists of 52 questions and lasts for 65 minutes. Following this, the writing and language section, with 44 questions, is allocated 35 minutes of test time.
How Long Is the SAT? The Excellent Guide to Test Success
Without the essay, the SAT is three hours and 15 minutes long (including breaks). With the optional essay, the SAT is four hours and five minutes long (including breaks). Here's the breakdown of each section: Reading: 65 minutes, 52 questions. Writing and Language: 35 minutes, 44 questions.
How Long is the SAT Exam: Sections and Breaks
The SAT Math section time is divided into two parts: 55-minute section with a calculator ( 10:10-10:35) 25-minute section without a calculator (10:40-11:35) As you can see, the duration of the whole section is 80 minutes. During the test, you need to cover 58 questions. The math parts - both with and without calculators - require special ...
How long is the SAT?
Mike is an expert test prep tutor (SAT/ACT/LSAT) and college essay consultant. Nearly all of Mike's SAT/ACT students score in the top 5% of test takers; many even score above 1500 on the SAT. His college essay students routinely earn admission into their top-choice schools, including Harvard, Brown, and Dartmouth.
SAT with essay vs without
Pros of taking the SAT without the essay: 1. Less expensive: The test fee is lower without the essay option. 2. Shorter testing time: You'll spend less time in the testing center, which might help you maintain focus on the crucial sections of the exam. 3.
The Definitive Guide to the SAT 2024
For some students in particular states, an optional Essay portion adds an extra fifty minutes at the end. ... How long is the SAT? Without breaks, the SAT takes 134 minutes (64 for Reading & Writing, 70 for Math) to complete, with two modules in each section. The test includes one break: ten minutes between the Reading & Writing and Math sections.
How Long is the SAT with Optional Essay Section?
The SAT test typically starts between 8:30 and 9 AM. So, with essay, that means you'll get out of the testing center at about 1 PM. The SAT Essay section itself is 50 minutes long, and is given at the very end of the test. This allows any students who are not taking this optional essay to leave the testing center.
How Long Is the SAT Test in 2024: Time Breakdown
The SAT testing time varies depending on whether you choose to take the optional essay section. Without the essay: The SAT takes 3 hours, or 3 hours and 15 minutes with breaks. This includes the Reading, Writing and Language, and Math sections. With the essay: The SAT takes 3 hours and 50 minutes, or 4 hours and 5 minutes with breaks.
SAT Essay Scoring
Responses to the optional SAT Essay are scored using a carefully designed process. Two different people will read and score your essay. Each scorer awards 1-4 points for each dimension: reading, analysis, and writing. The two scores for each dimension are added. You'll receive three scores for the SAT Essay—one for each dimension—ranging ...
Which Colleges Require the SAT Essay? Complete List
With the College Board's decision to end the SAT Essay, no colleges now require the essay, ending a long trend in college admissions. Call Direct: 1 (866) 811-5546 Sign In Start Free Trial. SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips ... If you take the SAT without Essay, your application will be incomplete and you won't get admitted.
why does it say "sat without essay"? : r/Sat
There used to be an essay, so you could take with or without essay. The essay was discontinued a while ago, so everything is without essay. CB isn't exactly great with their web site. You'll still see it referenced as SAT-R, for "revised", even 6 years after it was changed. 17. Solid_Sandwich_1113. • 1 yr. ago. Nothing wrong, it's ...
Should I Take the SAT Essay? How to Decide
Taking the SAT with the essay will also cost you a bit more money. Taking the SAT without the essay costs $46, but if you choose to take the essay, it costs $14 extra, raising the total cost of the SAT to $60. However, if you're eligible for an SAT fee waiver, the waiver also applies to this section of the exam, so you still won't have to pay ...
Bringing back the SAT requirement is a smart move
A student looks at questions during a college test preparation class at Holton-Arms School in Bethesda, Md., in 2016. Some universities are bringing back SAT scores as part of college admissions.
Opinion
Test-optional policies would have confounded me, but in the 2009-10 admissions cycle, I had to submit my scores; my fellow hopefuls and I were all in this together, slogging through multiple ...
How Long Is the SAT With Extended Time?
The most common option for extended time on the SAT lengthens it by 50%. Time and a half makes the SAT without the optional essay a total of 4 hours and 30 minutes and the SAT with the essay a total of 5 hours and 45 minutes. Students with time and a half take the SAT at the usual time and place, on a Saturday morning at their testing center of ...
Return of some SAT requirements scramble college admissions again
After a dramatic drop in 2020 spurred by the sudden closure of test sites, the number of students taking the SAT nationally has risen every year since, per the College Board, and reached 1.9 ...
Age Gap Relationships: The Case for Marrying an Older Man
The reception of a particular age-gap relationship depends on its obviousness. The greater and more visible the difference in years and status between a man and a woman, the more it strikes others as transactional. Transactional thinking in relationships is both as American as it gets and the least kosher subject in the American romantic lexicon.

How Long Is the SAT?

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How Long Are the SAT Test Sections?

When Are the Breaks During the SAT?

How Can I Track Time During the SAT?

What Time Warnings Will My Proctor Give?

What About the Optional Essay?

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How Long Is the SAT? 2023 Ultimate Guide

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How Long is the SAT? Your Top Timing Strategies

Article Contents 11 min read

SAT Sections

Reading Section

Math Section

Essay (Optional)

Strategies for Improving Passage Analysis in SAT Reading Section

Strategies for Improving Your Speed in SAT Writing and Language Section

Strategies for Improving Your Speed in the SAT Math Section

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Your Guide: How Long is the SAT Without Essay?

Understanding the SAT Format

Reading Section:

Writing and Language Section:

Math Sections: