The SAT in 2016

So what are the changes that will be implemented to the New SAT? Below you can find a summary of the changes and see that they are far from a simple return to the 1600 scoring. We have outlined the 8 changes you need to know for the New SAT.

Content

SAT Vocabulary words will more closely align with those used in college courses, instead of more obscure and esoteric terms

Every exam will have a reading passage containing an exerpt from either one of the nation's "founding documents" or a text from the "ongoing Great Global Conversation about freedom, justice, and human dignity."

Every exam will include source documents from a broad range of disciplines in the reading and writing sections, i.e. science and social studies.

The math portion of the test will focus on three main areas:

Linear equations
Complex equations or functions
Ratios, percentages and proportional reasoning

Instead of receiving an open-ended prompt like the current SAT, test-takers will read a passage before analyzing it in the form of an essay for the optional essay portion of the exam.

Scoring
Total exam score will range from 400-1600 Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section 200-800 point scale Math section 200-800 point scale Students will no longer be penalized for incorrect answers The essay will be a separate score and will be optional

Structural Differences Between the Old and Current SAT

  Old SATCurrent SAT
Number of Sections11 (With Experimental Section)5 (With Optional Essay Section)
Critical Reading Tests3 Sections (20-25 minutes each)
67 questionsOne 65 minute Reading Test
52 Questions
Writing Tests3 Sections (10-25 minutes each)
49 Questions35-minute Writing and Language Test
44 Questions 
Math Tests3 Sections (10-25 minutes each)
54 QuestionsOne 25-minute section without calculator (20 Questions)
One 55 minute section with claculator (38 Questions)
Essay Tests1 Required Essay Test (25 minutes)1 Optional Essay Test (50 minutes) 
Experimental Sections10 

Current SAT Practice Problems