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A Complete Guide to SAT and ACT-Syllabus, Dates, and Preparation Tips

A Complete Guide to SAT and ACT-Syllabus, Dates, and Preparation Tips

The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) and the American College Testing (ACT) are standardized tests whose scores are required by most colleges and universities in the U.S. as part of their application process. Additionally, some state universities also require SAT and ACT scores as eligibility criteria for granting scholarships and financial aid. Therefore, achieving a good score on these tests is essential for prospective students.

Continue reading to learn more about the SAT and ACT, its syllabus, how to prepare for them, and upcoming registration dates.

What is SAT?

The SAT is a standardized test that is used to assess a student’s readiness for college. While not every college requires SAT scores, many top-tier institutions still consider them as a part of their admissions process. A good SAT score is often believed to provide insight into a student’s academic capabilities. Therefore, if you are aiming for a specific college, it’s important to focus on your SAT score.

SAT SYLLABUS 2024:

If you want to score good on the SAT, you must be aware of the SAT’s 2024 syllabus. The new syllabus of SAT is given below:

SectionsModulesTotal QuestionsTime Allocated per ModuleTotal Time
Reading & Writing2 Modules in each54 questions
(27 questions from each module)
32 minutes each64 minutes
(1 hour 4 mins)
Math2 Modules in each44 questions
(22 questions from each module)
35 minutes each70 minutes
(1 hour 10 mins)

The total duration of the test is 2 hours and 14 minutes, with a 10-minute break given to students between sections.

Total Score Calculation: Reading and Writing Score + Math Score

SAT Math Syllabus:

It consists of following modules:

  • Algebra: Linear Equation in one & two variables, System of two Linear equations in two variables, Linear Inequalities in one & two variables, and Absolute value equations and inequalities.
  • Advanced Math: Exponents & Radicals, Non-Linear equations including Quadratic and Exponential Equations., Introduction to Non- Linear functions including Polynomial functions, and Equivalent expressions.
  • Problem-Solving and Data Analysis: Ratios, rates, Proportion & Unit conversion, Percentages & their application, Reading & Analyzing data including scatterplots, Box- whisker plots, Bar graphs, pie charts, line graphs, etc., and Statistics & Probability.
  • Geometry and Trigonometry: Area & Volumes, Lines, Angles Triangles, Introduction to Trigonometry, and Circles.

SAT EXAM DATES: Upcoming SAT exams dates are as follows:

SAT DateRegistration DeadlineDeadline for Late Registration and Changes
November 2, 2024October 18, 2024October 22, 2024
December 7, 2024November 22, 2024November 26, 2024
March 8, 2025February 21, 2025February 25, 2025
May 3, 2025April 18, 2025April 22, 2025
June 7, 2025May 22, 2025May 27, 2025

What is ACT?

The American College Testing (ACT) is a standardized exam required for college admissions. Unlike the SAT, which tests only reading, writing, and math skills, the ACT assesses students’ writing, math, verbal, and science skills through an online multiple-choice format. It has an optional writing section, too.

ACT SYLLABUS 2024:

If you want to score well on the ACT, you must be aware of the ACT’s 2024 syllabus. The new syllabus of ACT is given below:

SectionsTotal QuestionsTime Allotted Per Test
(in minutes)
English7545
Math6060
Reading4035
Science4035
Writing (Optional)1 essay40

ACT English Syllabus:

  • Punctuation
  • Strategy
  • Grammar
  • Usage
  • Organization and
  • Style

ACT Math Syllabus:

  • Pre-Algebra
  • Intermediate Algebra
  • Elementary Algebra
  • Coordinate Geometry
  • Plane Geometry and
  • Trigonometry

ACT Reading Syllabus:

  • Central Idea
  • Detail
  • Vocabulary
  • Function and
  • Implied Idea

ACT Science Syllabus:

  • Research Summaries
  • Data Representation and
  • Conflicting Viewpoints

ACT Writing (Optional)

The writing test involves composing a short essay that includes three different viewpoints. Students must analyze each viewpoint, discussing its merits and demerits, and conclude with suggestions for improvement.

ACT EXAM DATES

Upcoming ACT exams dates are as follows:

Test DateRegular Registration Deadline
Late Fee Applies After This Date
Late Registration DeadlinePhoto Upload and Standby Deadline
December 14, 2024November 8November 22December 6
February 8, 2025January 3January 20January 31
April 5, 2025February 28March 16March 28
June 14, 2025May 9May 26June 6
July 12, 2025*June 6June 20July 4

SAT and ACT PREPARATION TIPS:

  • Understand the format of the SAT and ACT exams, including the types of questions that are frequently asked. By familiarizing yourself with the exam structure, you can manage your time more efficiently.
  • Create a proper study plan. Give more time to your weaker areas and ensure you prepare each subject thoroughly. With a solid plan in place, you can effectively monitor your progress. 
  • Refer to official study resources, such as study guides, sample questions, and practice exams available online, or obtain them from the College Board or ACT’s official website.
  • Take the practice tests to assess your preparedness and areas for improvement.
  • Through the practice tests, you will know your weaknesses. Work on improving them.
  • Maintain consistency in preparing for exams. Follow a regular timetable. Remember, the more you practice, the luckier you will get.
SAT and ACT preparation tips

Conclusion:

If you want admission to your dream college, scoring well on the SAT and ACT is essential. Even though many colleges consider these exam scores optional, still strong standardized test scores can enhance your college application and improve your chances of success.

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