SAT Day Planning: Testing Duration

I'm going for the SAT in a few weeks and amaaazingly nervous. I was wondering if anyone knows how long I will have to stay at the test center? And does the time differ if you're doing the SAT with Essay? Super stressed and any help would be miraculous!

Hello! I totally understand your nerves, but don't worry –– we've got your back.

As of spring 2024, the SAT went fully digital and the structure changed a bit. The test now comprises of two sections:

1. Reading and Writing: There are two 32-minute modules here, comprising 54 questions in total.

2. Math: This has two 35-minute modules to complete 44 questions.

The total duration of the digital SAT is about 134 minutes – that's equivalent to around 2 hours and 14 minutes – to complete all 98 questions.

To answer the second part of your question, there's no longer a writing section or an essay on the SAT anymore. It was discontinued in 2021, so you don't have to set aside additional time for this.

In general, you should plan to spend about 2.5 to 3 hours at the test center. You would want to arrive early enough to settle in, use the restrooms if necessary, perhaps squeeze in some last-minute review, and orient yourself to your workspace.

Keep in mind, though, that times can vary. Some tests may run longer due to administrative procedures at the beginning and end of the exam. It's always a good idea to keep your schedule flexible on SAT day.

Finally, if you're looking for more information about exactly what to expect on test day, and preparation tips to ensure you do as well as possible, I'd check out CollegeVine's series of free blog posts focused on SAT prep: https://blog.collegevine.com/category/standardized-tests/sat/

Remember to carry all your necessary documents, a simple calculator, and snacks to keep you energized. You've got this! You've put in the hard work – now it's time to trust yourself and your preparations. Good luck!