Skip to main content
What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Understanding the SATs: Quantity of Questions?

Hey everyone, I'm just starting to prep for the SATs and I'm feeling a tad overwhelmed. Can anyone walk me through matters like how many questions I should expect to attempt throughout the whole test?

a year ago

Absolutely, it can be a bit much when you're just starting out, so it's great that you're asking! For the SATs, anyway, it's all quite structured.

Since 2024, the SAT has become fully digital, and its structure follows kind of a pattern of modules. There are two sections: Reading/Writing and Math.

In the Reading and Writing Section, you have two 32-minute modules, within which you will complete 54 questions. You're given roughly 71 seconds to answer each question. As it's digital, pacing yourself might feel slightly different than with a paper test, but you'll get the hang of it.

In the Math Section, you similarly have two 35-minute modules, but in this case, you will complete 44 questions. You have a bit more time per question here, about 96 seconds per question if you time it out. And good news, unlike the older format, you are allowed to use your calculator for both math modules.

So, in terms of quantity, if you add those up, the total for the digital SAT is 98 questions. The whole test runs for about 134 minutes, a bit over two hours.

If you're feeling anxious, it may help to simulate the test environment and time constraints at home while studying, or preview a digital SAT via the Bluebook™ app to get familiar with the structure. It sounds like a lot initially, but with practice, it'll feel more manageable. Good luck on your prep!

a year ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.