Hey folks! As we're nearing the end of the year, I'm wondering whether the November SAT is any different from the ones given earlier in the year. Will the difficulty or test format vary, or is it pretty much consistent throughout the year? Bit anxious about it, so any insights would be appreciated.
The SAT is designed to maintain a consistent level of difficulty and format throughout the year, including the November test. This consistency is ensured by the College Board through a process known as equating. Equating essentially adjusts for minor variations in difficulty across different test forms, ensuring scores are comparable from one test date to another.
The format of the SAT has remained consistent for the past several years. As of 2024, when the SAT went fully digital, the SAT is structured as follows:
- Reading and Writing: two 32-minute modules, to complete 54 questions. You have about 71 seconds per question.
- Math: two 35-minute modules, to complete 44 questions. You have 96 seconds per question, or a little over a minute and a half.
This is the structure that you can expect on any SAT test date, including November. Additionally, keep in mind that there is no longer a no-calculator section on the SAT; you can use your calculator on both math modules.
The best way to approach your SAT is through continuous practice. You can use resources like the Bluebook™ app, which allows you to preview the digital SAT and take full-length practice tests, to get accustomed to the real test conditions. This should give you a solid foundation to tackle the SAT in November, or on any other test date. Good luck!
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.