The SAT Overview
| Purpose | University admissions (mostly US) |
| Test Sections | Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW), Math & Essay (optional) |
| Test Format | Digital, multiple-choice |
| Highest SAT Score | 1600 |
| Average SAT Score | 1060 |
| SAT Time Length | 2 hours 14 minutes |
| Exam Frequency | Several times a year |
| Accepted By | US universities, some international universities |
What is the SAT Exam?
The Scholastic Assessment Test or SAT is standardize entrance exam widely used by college and universities, especially in the United States, to make admissions decisions. It is developed and administered by the College Board and is conducted digitally.
The SAT helps colleges measure a student’s readiness for university-level education and offers a starting ground to compare applicants from diverse academic backgrounds.
How is the SAT Evaluated?
College admissions officers typically review SAT scores alongside:
- High school GPA
- Course rigor
- Letters of recommendation
- Extracurricular involvement
- Admissions interviews
- Personal essays
Who Can Take the SAT?
There are no specific age, nationality, or academic requirements to take the SAT. However, most students take it during their final two years of high school, usually between ages 16 and 18, as part of their undergraduate application process.
There is no limit to how many times a student can take the SAT. That said, most students take it between one and three times, often to improve their scores. The SAT is available internationally, including to Indonesian students.
Where is the SAT Held in Indonesia?
The SAT is conducted at official test centers worldwide. In Indonesia, the exam is offered in major cities like:
- Jakarta
- Surabaya
- Bali
- Medan
- Bandung
Most SAT exams in Indonesia are hosted at international schools or educational institutions affiliated with the College Board.
Why is the SAT Important?
The SAT plays a significant role in the university admission, scholarship process and academic readiness assessments, especially for Indonesian students planning to pursue higher education abroad.
University Admissions
Many universities in the United States, Canada, and several other countries use SAT scores as part of their admission criteria. The test provides a consistent and objective way to compare applicants from different educational systems.
Alongside high school GPA and extracurricular achievements, a strong SAT score can enhance your application by demonstrating your academic abilities.
Scholarships
Many scholarship programs, including the international ones, consider SAT scores in their selection process. A high SAT score can significantly boost your chances of receiving financial aid or merit-based scholarships.
Academic Ability Assessment
The SAT is designed to measure a student’s academic ability, including reading comprehension, analytical thinking, grammar and writing, and mathematical reasoning. It helps ensure that students have the academic foundation necessary to succeed in college.
Research shows that higher SAT scores correlate with greater success in college, making it a reliable predictor of academic readiness.
What is the SAT Structure?
The SAT consist of three main sections:
Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW)
The ERW sections consist of two subtests:
Reading Test: Assesses students’ reading and comprehension skills. Students will be given several reading passages, including works of fiction, history, social studies, and science.
Questions on this test will ask students to demonstrate their understanding of the main ideas, important details, and relationships between information in the text.
Writing and Language Test: Tests students’ writing and grammar skills. Students will be asked to read several questions that focus on improving the quality of their writing. This includes corrections to grammar, style, and sentence structure.
Math
The math section consists of two subtests:
Math Test with Calculator: This subtest allows the use of a calculator. Questions cover topics such as algebra, functions, geometry, and data analysis. Calculators can help solve more complex problems and time-consuming calculations.
Math Test with No Calculator: This subtest does not allow the use of a calculator. Students are expected to solve math problems using conceptual understanding and basic calculation skills. Topic tested include arithmetic, algebra, and simple data analysis.
Essay (Optional)
The essay section requires students to write an essay based on their analysis of a specific text. Students will read a short text and then write an essay explaining how the author builds his or her argument, uses evidence, and rhetorical techniques.
Although the essay section is optional, some universities may require or recommend it as part of the admissions process.
SAT vs. SNBT (Indonesia’s National Test)
| Category | SAT | SNBT |
| Used In | US and international universities | Indonesian universities |
| Focus | Language & Math skills | Scholastic potential & academic competency |
| Format | Computer-based exam, multiple choice and optional essays | Computer-based exams |
| Purpose | College and university admissions & scholarship evaluation | University admissions |
The SAT is an important exam that helps students demonstrate their academic abilities and college readiness. For Indonesian students aspiring to study abroad, particularly in the United States, the SAT is a key criteria in university admissions and scholarship opportunities.
With thorough preparation and an understanding of the SAT format, youcan maximize your performance and improve your chances of achieving your educational goals abroad.
To support your university application and cultural readiness, Dimulti Educational Immersion Program offers students a unique opportunity to experience academic enrichments while exploring life in the US, especially East Coast. Preparing you for success in global university environment.
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