This may sound weird, but I've seen various posts about when the SAT starts, and I'm actually really confused. What time does the SAT start and end? Will breaks and other factors affect these times? Thanks!
Not weird at all! Knowing the SAT test start and end times will help you be better prepared on test day. The SAT itself takes about 3 hours in total, but the entire test day experience will likely last around 4-4.5 hours, including breaks and other procedural elements.
Usually, you should plan to arrive at the testing location around 7:30-7:45 AM. The doors will close at 8:00 AM, and then administrators will check your admission ticket and ID, assign seats, and distribute materials. The actual test typically begins around 8:30 AM or a little later, depending on how quickly everything gets organized.
The test itself consists of four sections – two Math sections (one without calculator and one with), Reading, and Writing & Language. There will be a 10-minute break after the Reading section and a 5-minute break after the Math No Calculator section. With breaks, section transitions, and other factors, the test should conclude around 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM.
Bear in mind that these times are approximate, and your specific testing experience might vary. It's always a good idea to plan for unexpected delays, so give yourself extra time in your schedule to account for any discrepancies. Good luck on your SAT!
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