College Board is revising the SAT, and a new redesigned SAT will be offered starting in March 2016. The last time the current SAT will be offered is January 2016. Current juniors and seniors will still be taking the current SAT. Sophomores (Class of 2017) have the option of taking either the current SAT or the new SAT--both will be admissible for college applications. Freshmen (Class of 2018) will be required to take the new SAT. The PSAT is also being revised to be in line with the new SAT. Starting in 2015, the PSAT will reflect the content of the new SAT.

What are the differences between the current and new SATs?

Questions

  • Total Score
  • Total Time
  • Sections
  • Essay
  • Guessing Penalty
  • Math Section
  • Critical Reading
  • Vocabulary

Current SAT (2015)

  • 2400
  • 3 hours 45 minutes
  • Critical Reading, Math, Writing
  • 25 minutes, mandatory
  • -0.25 points for an incorrect answer
  • Calculators allowed
  • Focus on comprehension
  • Wide range of vocabulary

New SAT (2016)

  • 1600
  • 3 hours + 50 minute optional essay
  • Evidence-based Reading & Writing, Math, optional essay
  • 50 minutes, optional
  • No penalty for incorrect answers
  • Calculators not allowed on one math section
  • Focus on drawing evidence from passages
  • Shift towards more generally used words
Sequoia Academy offers preparation for whichever SAT you plan on taking. Visit the SAT page for more information on our SAT prep courses.