Article

Prepare yourself for SAT

Written by Maria Janes

Topic: Continuing EducationPublished December 6, 2011
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Today, the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) is the benchmark standardized assessment of the critical reading, mathematical reasoning, and writing skills students have developed over time and that they need to be successful in college. The SAT in Ghana (technically known as the SAT I) is a general test of verbal and quantitative reasoning accepted for U. S. college admissions. These exams provide a path to opportunities, financial support and scholarships, in a way that's fair to all students. The test is required for admission to undergraduate programs of most US universities. Many universities also require you to take SAT-II tests.

SAT-I : Reasoning Test

The SAT-I is a three hour, primarily multiple-choice test that measures verbal and mathematical reasoning abilities that develop over time. Most colleges require SAT-I scores for admission.

SAT-II : Subject Tests

The SAT-II subject tests are one hour, primarily multiple-choice tests that measure your knowledge of particular subjects and your ability to apply that knowledge. Many universities may require you to take this along with SAT-I.

Educators trust the SAT as a useful part of the college application process because the SAT is:

  • The most researched standardized admissions test
  • The standard in reliability and validity
  • An internationally recognized, accurate measure of college readiness and scholarship potential.

Eligibility

The combination of high school grades and SAT scores is the best predictor of your academic success in college. Anyone and everyone interested is eligible for taking the SAT. The SAT test scores are valid for Five years, i.e., most universities accept scores up to five years old.

The SAT consists of three major sections: Critical Reading, Mathematics, and Writing. Each section receives a score on the scale of 200–800. All scores are multiples of 10. Total scores are calculated by adding up scores of the three sections. Each major section is divided into three parts. There are 10 sub-sections, including an additional 25-minute experimental or "equating" section that may be in any of the three major sections. The experimental section is used to normalize questions for future administrations of the SAT and does not count toward the final score.

SAT Subject Tests allow you to differentiate yourself in the college admission process or send a strong message regarding your readiness to study specific majors or programs in college. In conjunction with your other admission credentials (your high school record, SAT scores, teacher recommendations, etc.), they provide a more complete picture of your academic background and interests.

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About the Author

The author is a journalists by profession and has written many articles regarding International Education and SAT in Ghana.