Why Take the SAT?
Find out how the SAT can benefit you
As the nation’s most widely used college admission test, the SAT is the first step toward higher education for students of all backgrounds. It’s taken by more than two million students every year and is accepted by virtually all colleges and universities.
There are many reasons to take the SAT, but here are a few of the biggies:
It tests what you already know
The SAT tests the reading, writing and math skills that you learn in school and that are critical for success in college and beyond.
It gives both you and colleges a sense of how you’ll be able to apply the thinking, writing and study skills required for college course work.
It’s fair to everyone
The questions are rigorously researched and tested to make sure students from all backgrounds have an equal chance to do well.
And the test is straightforward. There are no tricks designed to trip you up. Students who do well in the classroom are often the same ones who will do well on the SAT.
It’s more than just a test
The SAT also provides the opportunity for you to connect to scholarship opportunities, place out of certain college courses and learn more about your academic strengths.
It helps you select the right fit for college
SAT scores are among the factors considered in college admission. Many schools’ websites share the range of SAT scores reported by their admitted students. You can also find this information in College Search. This valuable information allows you to research which colleges might be the best fit for you.
Rise to the challenge
The 21st century global economy is fast-paced and changeable. You’ll need a new set of skills – and a habit of lifelong learning – to flourish in this information age. The best way to succeed and thrive as an adult is to challenge yourself to rise to a high level of academic excellence now. You’ll do that best by taking challenging high school courses and working hard in them.
The SAT provides a trusted, nationally recognized indicator of your academic readiness for college. In a way, the SAT is the bridge between the hard work you’ve already done and the college that is the best fit for the future you are about to create.
What is the SAT I?
The SAT I is designed to measure a secondary school student's reasoning skills. It is a requirement for applicants to some, but not all, U.S. and international universities. The SAT I is made up of multiple-choice questions that measure mathematical and verbal reasoning abilities.
Where do I get an SAT I bulletin?
AMIDEAST maintains a supply of registration bulletins and Taking the SAT I bulletins. If you are not in a country where AMIDEAST has an office, please visit your high school guidance counselor or local advising office to obtain a bulletin.
Where and when can I take the SAT I?
The SAT I is offered several times a year with registration deadlines approximately two months before the test date. The SAT I is administered on those dates in a paper-based format.
How do I register?
Students who wish to take the test in a country where AMIDEAST has an office may register for the SAT I at most AMIDEAST offices. Other candidates should refer to the SAT bulletin to register by fax or mail. They may also register on-line using a credit card.
How do I prepare for the SAT I?
It is important for you to be familiar with the kinds of questions asked on the SAT I. There are several ways to prepare.
- Visit the SAT Web site for sample questions and tips
- Do the questions and sample test in the free Taking the SAT I bulletin
- Purchase SAT preparation materials from AMIDEAST
- Take a test preparation class at AMIDEAST
What do I do on the day of the test?
Arrive at the test site 30 minutes before the assigned test time. Check-in procedures take time. If you arrive late, you may not be admitted to the test, and you will forfeit your test fees. Bring photo bearing identification, as described in the SAT registration bulletin. Bring your test confirmation information.
What about my scores?
Your official scores will be mailed from the United States about three weeks after the test. Please allow time for them to arrive by international mail.
If you need score reports to be sent to additional institutions, please complete the form in the SAT registration bulletin and return it with payment to the College Board. If paying by credit card, you may also contact the College Board on-line or by telephone as detailed in the registration bulletin.
Questions about any missing score reports (scores not received after 8 weeks or longer) should be directed to the Educational Testing Service, which issues the SAT score reports. An e-mail sent to the This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. usually will receive a response in five to seven days. Score report problems are best avoided by careful preparation of the registration form: writing name and mailing address clearly and following payment.
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