does the august sat have an essay

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Hi! I've heard mixed information about the SAT essay. Does the current SAT still include an essay section or has it been removed? I'd appreciate any clarity on this!

Hello! The SAT has undergone a range of changes lately, and in June 2021, the College Board eliminated the optional Essay section from the SAT. This means that the current SAT no longer includes an essay portion, and you'll only be assessed on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math sections. With this change, it's essential to focus on maximizing your scores in these two sections to demonstrate your academic abilities to colleges and universities.

Additionally, many colleges now place greater emphasis on personal statements and supplemental essays in their evaluation of your writing abilities instead of turning to your SAT Essay score. To make sure your essays are as strong as possible, consider utilizing CollegeVine's Free Peer Essay Review Tool, or submitting your essay for a paid review by an expert college admissions advisor through CollegeVine's marketplace.

Best of luck with your SAT!

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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.

The Optional SAT Essay: What to Know

Tackling this section of the SAT requires preparation and can boost some students' college applications.

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Even though an increasing number of colleges are dropping standardized test requirements, students who must write the SAT essay can still stand to gain from doing so.

Although the essay portion of the SAT became optional in 2016, many students still chose to write it to demonstrate strong or improved writing skills to prospective colleges.

In June 2021, the College Board opted to discontinue the SAT essay. Now, only students in a few states and school districts still have access to — and must complete — the SAT essay. This requirement applies to some students in the SAT School Day program, for instance, among other groups.

How Colleges Use SAT, ACT Results

Tiffany Sorensen Sept. 14, 2020

Whether or not to write the SAT essay is not the biggest decision you will have to make in high school, but it is certainly one that requires thought on your part. Here are three things you should know about the 50-minute SAT essay as you decide whether to complete it:

• To excel on the SAT essay, you must be a trained reader.
• The SAT essay begs background knowledge of rhetoric and persuasive writing.
• A growing number of colleges are dropping standardized test requirements.

To Excel on the SAT Essay, You Must Be a Trained Reader

The SAT essay prompt never comes unaccompanied. On the contrary, it follows a text that is about 700 words long or approximately one page. Before test-takers can even plan their response, they must carefully read and – ideally – annotate the passage.

The multifaceted nature of the SAT essay prompt can be distressing to students who struggle with reading comprehension. But the good news is that this prompt is highly predictable: It always asks students to explain how the author builds his or her argument. In this case, "how” means which rhetorical devices are used, such as deductive reasoning, metaphors, etc.

Luckily, the author’s argument is usually spelled out in the prompt itself. For instance, consider this past SAT prompt : “Write an essay in which you explain how Paul Bogard builds an argument to persuade his audience that natural darkness should be preserved.”

Due to the essay prompt’s straightforward nature, students should read the passage with an eye toward specific devices used by the author rather than poring over “big ideas.” In tour SAT essay, aim to analyze at least two devices, with three being even better.

The SAT Essay Begs Background Knowledge of Rhetoric and Persuasive Writing

Since your SAT essay response must point to specific rhetorical devices that the author employs to convince the reader, you should make it a point to intimately know 10-15 common ones. The more familiar you are with rhetorical devices, the faster you will become at picking them out as you read texts.

Once you have read the passage and identified a handful of noteworthy rhetorical devices, you should apply many of the same essay-writing techniques you already use in your high school English classes.

For instance, you should start by brainstorming to see which devices you have the most to say about. After that, develop a concise thesis statement, incorporate quotes from the text, avoid wordiness and other infelicities of writing, close with an intriguing conclusion, and do everything else you could imagine your English teacher advising you to do.

Remember to always provide evidence from the text to support your claims. Finally, leave a few minutes at the end to review your essay for mistakes.

A Growing Number of Colleges Are Dropping Standardized Test Requirements

In recent years, some of America’s most prominent colleges and universities – including Ivy League institutions like Harvard University in Massachusetts, Princeton University in New Jersey and Yale University in Connecticut – have made submission of ACT and SAT scores optional.

While this trend began as early as 2018, the upheaval caused by COVID-19 has prompted many other schools to adopt a more lenient testing policy, as well.

Advocates for educational fairness have long expressed concerns that standardized admissions tests put underprivileged students at a disadvantage. In light of the coronavirus pandemic , which restricted exam access for almost all high school students, colleges have gotten on board with this idea by placing more emphasis on other factors in a student’s application.

To assess writing ability in alternative ways, colleges now place more emphasis on students’ grades in language-oriented subjects, as well as college application documents like the personal statement .

The fact that more colleges are lifting their ACT/SAT requirement does not imply that either test or any component of it is now obsolete. Students who must write the SAT essay can still stand to gain from doing so, especially those who wish to major in a writing-intensive field. The essay can also demonstrate a progression or upward trajectory in writing skills.

The SAT essay can give a boost to the college applications of the few students to whom it is still available. If the requirement applies to you, be sure to learn more about the SAT essay and practice it often as you prepare for your upcoming SAT.

13 Test Prep Tips for SAT and ACT Takers

Tags: SAT , standardized tests , students , education

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The Definitive Guide to the SAT 2024

Dec 12, 2023 | Articles , SAT , Standardized Tests

What is the SAT?

The Digital SAT is a standardized test created by the College Board and has been completely redesigned beginning with the March 2024 test. You’ll take the test on the SAT Bluebook™ app (unless you have paper-based accommodations) which you’ll want to download and practice with before test day. Typically, juniors and seniors take the test for college admissions, scholarship awards, and school assessments. The test takes about two and a half hours, including two short breaks. For some students in particular states, an optional Essay portion adds an extra fifty minutes at the end.

What are the sections of the SAT? 

The Digital SAT includes two sections with two modules each, Reading & Writing and Math . Each section counts for 50% of your composite score. This newly adaptive test contains a mix of easy to difficult questions in the first module for each section, then offers an easier or tougher second module depending on how well you answer the questions in the first section.  No Science section exists on the SAT as on the ACT, but knowledge of interpreting charts, tables, and graphs is assessed throughout all test sections. The SAT provides 68% more time per question than the ACT, and there’s no penalty for guessing.

Reading & Writing

The Reading & Writing section includes short (25-150 words) reading passages (or passage pairs) on subjects from literature, history/social studies, the humanities, and science.  Each multiple-choice question that follows a passage covers one of four domains:

• Information and Ideas.  Measures comprehension, analysis, and reasoning skills and knowledge and the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, and integrate information and ideas from texts and informational graphics (tables, bar graphs, and line graphs).
• Craft and Structure.  Measures the comprehension, vocabulary, analysis, synthesis, and reasoning skills and knowledge needed to understand and use high-utility words and phrases in context, evaluate texts rhetorically, and make connections between topically related texts.
• Expression of Ideas.  Measures the ability to revise texts to improve the effectiveness of written expression and to meet specific rhetorical goals.
• Standard English Conventions.  Measures the ability to edit text to conform to core conventions of Standard English sentence structure, usage, and punctuation.

The Math section requires a deep understanding of algebra, but the test provides basic geometry formulas. The Bluebook app includes a built-in calculator, or you can still choose to bring your own from an approved list . Most (approximately 75%) questions are multiple-choice; but for some questions, you’ll need to provide a specific answer. These student-produced response (SPR) format questions may have multiple correct responses, but you’ll only provide one answer. Questions measure your ability to apply essential math concepts and about 30% of questions ask you to evaluate an in-context (worded) scenario and determine how to apply your math skills to find the answer. Each question covers one of four content areas:

• Algebra. Algebra measures the ability to analyze, fluently solve, and create linear equations and inequalities as well as analyze and fluently solve equations and systems of equations using multiple techniques. (13-15 questions)
• Advanced Math. The Advanced Math area measures skills and knowledge central for progression to more advanced math courses, including demonstrating an understanding of absolute value, quadratic, exponential, polynomial, rational, radical, and other nonlinear equations. (13-15 questions)
• Problem-Solving and Data Analysis. Problem-Solving and Data Analysis measures the ability to apply quantitative reasoning about ratios, rates, and proportional relationships; understand and apply unit rate; and analyze and interpret one- and two-variable data. (5-7 questions)
• Geometry and Trigonometry. Problems to solve include area and volume formulas; lines, angles, and triangles; right triangles and trigonometry, and circles. (5-7 questions)

How long is the SAT? 

How many questions are on the SAT? 

The SAT includes 154 questions. 

• Reading & Writing includes 54 questions in 64 minutes (average 71 seconds per question)
• Math  has 44 questions in 70 minutes (average 95 seconds per question)

What are the SAT dates? 

The SAT is offered seven times each year in March, May, June, August, October, November, and December. This provides multiple opportunities to take the test and increase your scores. Many schools, especially in states where the SAT is mandated for all high school juniors, also offer the test during the school day for students, generally in the spring. Check with your school to see if and when they offer the SAT. 

What is the average SAT score?

SAT scores range from 400 to 1600. The average SAT score for the class of 2023 was 1028 , down 22 points from 2022. ( Curious what that would be on the ACT? ) A ccording to the College Board’s latest score report , only 7% of all test-takers scored higher than 1400. No one scored below 590, and 12% of test-takers scored between 600 and 790. The Digital SAT (March 2024 onward) may be difficult to compare with the previous version of the SAT.

How do you register for the SAT?

Register for the SAT at www.collegeboard.org . Test centers can be found on the SAT website , where you can search by state and test date. B ring a photo ID with your admission ticket on test day. You can use a driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued photo ID. If you don’t have any of these IDs, the SAT offers alternative methods to prove your identity.   When you register, you can choose to include information to allow colleges and scholarship organizations to contact you. 

On test day, you are expected to bring your fully-charged device with the Bluebook testing app already loaded. You can also bring a pen/pencil and use the scratch paper provided at the test site.

How much does the SAT cost? 

For 2023, taking the SAT costs $60. Add $30 if you register late, after the regular deadline. You can send up to four free score reports up to nine days after the test date. Additional score reports or reports ordered after you take the test are $14 per report. The SAT offers fee waivers to eligible test-takers (free & reduced lunch, receiving public assistance, etc.). Students can use the waivers to take two free SATs (with or without the essay) and send unlimited score reports. If you think you may be eligible, work with your school counselor to submit your request. 

When should you take the SAT?

Taking the PSAT is a good introduction to the format and content of the SAT, during the sophomore or junior year of high school. You may only qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program by testing during your junior year. Register for the PSAT through your school. After taking the PSAT, consider taking the SAT at least four times. No one gets their best score the first (or even second) time. Try taking the test twice in your junior year and twice in your senior fall. This increases the chances of scoring your best and boosting potential scholarships and financial aid! 

Should you take the SAT or ACT? 

All colleges accept both the ACT and SAT, so try both, then decide where to focus your effort. The SAT has two Math sections compared to only one for the ACT. The ACT, however, has a Science and Data Interpretation section.   In general, the content on the SAT is more challenging, but more time is given per question, compared to the ACT. Th e most important thing is to take either test multiple times. Improve your scores through practice.

How long does it take to get SAT scores? 

SAT multiple-choice scores are usually reported within 2-3 weeks of your test date. A schedule for individual test dates is available. The College Board sends a ll score reports to your selected colleges within ten days. 

How do you improve your SAT scores?

Practice and preparation are two of the biggest ways you can improve your SAT score. Find SAT prep that’s fun and engaging but also gives you strategies to help take the test. Not all test prep is created equal, so research, read reviews, and look past flashy guarantees.   OnToCollege offers an effective video course that not only gives you strategies but also practice tests and solution videos to help you learn from your mistakes. Use actual SAT practice tests as you study, (three are included in our course) to learn the format of the test. Then take the actual SAT multiple times, ideally twice your junior year and twice your senior year. 

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When Is the August SAT? Should You Take It?

The SAT is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. Traditionally, the SAT has been offered several times a year, including in August. However, it's important to stay updated with the College Board's official SAT website to confirm the availability of the August SAT as scheduling may vary from year to year. In this article, we'll explore the potential benefits and considerations of taking the August SAT.

1. Timing and Preparation:

The August SAT can be advantageous for students who prefer to take the test before the pressures of the academic year begin. It allows students to dedicate focused preparation time during the summer when they may have fewer academic obligations. Additionally, taking the SAT in August provides an opportunity to receive scores early, enabling students to plan their college application strategies accordingly.

2. Early Application Deadlines:

Many colleges and universities have early application deadlines, such as Early Action or Early Decision, typically due in November or December. Taking the August SAT can ensure that students have their scores ready to submit with their early applications, giving them a competitive edge and potentially increasing their chances of admission.

3. Retake Opportunity:

If a student takes the SAT in August and is not satisfied with their scores, they have the option to retake the test in subsequent months. This provides an opportunity for improvement and the ability to submit higher scores to colleges during regular application rounds if necessary.

4. Considerations:

While the August SAT offers advantages, there are a few factors to consider. First, students need to balance their preparation time with other summer commitments. It's important to create a study plan and allocate sufficient time for practice tests, review, and improvement. Second, availability may vary, so it's essential to check the College Board's official website for test dates and registration deadlines. Lastly, students should assess their readiness and determine if they have adequately covered the necessary content and skills required for the SAT.

When Are the August SAT Scores Available?

The availability of August SAT scores can vary depending on the test administration and the specific year. Generally, SAT scores are released approximately 10 days after the test date. However, it's important to note that score release dates are subject to change, and the College Board provides the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding score release on their official website (www.collegeboard.org).

To ensure you have the most current information, I recommend checking the College Board website or contacting their customer service for the exact score release date for the August SAT administration you are interested in. They can provide you with the specific timeline and any updates related to score reporting.

Pros and Cons of Taking the SAT in August

Taking the SAT in August can have both pros and cons. Let's explore some of the advantages and disadvantages to consider:

1. Early Preparation: The August SAT allows you to start your test preparation early, providing you with ample time to study and review the content during the summer break when you may have fewer academic commitments.

2. Early Scores: By taking the August SAT, you have the opportunity to receive your scores earlier than students who take later test dates. This can be beneficial if you plan to apply for early admissions or want to gauge your performance and make any necessary adjustments to your college application strategy.

3. Retake Opportunity: If you're not satisfied with your scores from the August SAT, you have the option to retake the test in subsequent months. This allows you to improve your scores and potentially enhance your college application.

4. Reduced Academic Pressure: Taking the SAT in August can alleviate some of the academic pressures during the regular school year. By tackling the test early, you can focus on your coursework without the added stress of test preparation.

1. Limited Preparation Time: The August SAT may require intense preparation during the summer months, which can be challenging if you have other commitments or limited access to study resources.

2. Reduced Study Support: Some students may find it difficult to maintain consistent study routines during the summer break due to limited access to teachers, tutors, or study groups.

3. Limited Availability: Not all test centers offer the SAT in August. It's essential to check the availability of the test in your area and ensure you register well in advance.

4. Timing Conflict: The August SAT may coincide with other summer activities or commitments, such as vacations, internships, or summer programs. This could create scheduling conflicts and potentially impact your ability to focus on test preparation.

Ultimately, the decision to take the SAT in August depends on your individual circumstances, academic readiness, and goals. Consider factors such as your ability to dedicate sufficient time for preparation, availability of resources and support, and any potential conflicts with other summer commitments. It's important to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision that aligns with your specific situation and college application timeline.

In conclusion, taking the SAT in August has its advantages and disadvantages. It provides the opportunity for early preparation, early score reporting, and the chance to retake the test if needed. It also allows you to tackle the test without the academic pressures of the regular school year. However, there may be challenges such as limited preparation time, reduced study support, and potential conflicts with other summer commitments. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your individual circumstances, readiness, and goals. Consider your ability to dedicate time to preparation, access to resources, and any potential conflicts before making a decision. Remember, early planning and thorough consideration will help you make the most informed choice for your college admissions journey.

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Digital SAT Reading and Writing

Course: digital sat reading and writing   >   unit 1.

• About the digital SAT
• Digital SAT overview
• About the digital SAT Reading and Writing test

Digital SAT FAQs

• About the digital PSAT/NMSQT

Frequently asked questions

What is the digital sat, which version of the sat will i take.

• Starting in 2023, students taking the test outside the United States and its territories (American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands) will take the digital SAT.
• Starting in 2024, the digital SAT will be taken by all students.
• You’re taking it outside of the U.S., you should prepare for the digital SAT only by using Khan Academy’s Official Digital SAT Prep .
• You’re taking it in the U.S. (or its territories), you should prepare for the paper-and-pencil test using Khan Academy’s Official SAT Practice .

What is the difference between the digital SAT and the paper-and-pencil test?

• Calculator use: Calculators are now allowed throughout the entire Math section. A graphing calculator is integrated into the digital test experience so that all students have access.
• Question word count: The average length of Math word problems has been reduced. In-context questions are still a big part of the test, but they’re not quite so wordy.
• One test for Reading and Writing: While the pencil-and-paper SAT tested reading and writing in separate test sections, the digital SAT combines these topics.
• Shorter passages (and more of them): Instead of reading long passages and answering multiple questions on each passage, students taking the digital SAT will encounter shorter passages, each with just one follow-up question.
• New question types: With a greater number and variety of passages, the digital SAT includes new types of questions, with new prompts that require new strategies.

How should I start studying for the digital SAT?

• Starting with a practice test will help you diagnose the areas where you need the most practice.
• After taking each practice test, you can review your performance and read answer explanations for the questions you missed.
• You can take full-length practice tests using College Board’s Bluebook app .
• We recommend taking full-length practice tests at set intervals throughout your test prep journey. Doing this will help you gauge your progress, refine the focus of your skill practice, and build endurance and experience for test day.
• The best way to practice individual skills is to explore both the digital SAT Math course and the digital SAT Reading and Writing courses on Khan Academy.
• In these courses, you can read articles and watch videos that cover each skill, practice those skills, then test yourself in the related exercises. As you become proficient in more skills, you’ll become more prepared for test day.

How many practice tests should I take to be prepared?

What types of practice does khan academy’s official digital sat prep have.

• The Math course is organized into 37 math skills and features three levels of difficulty in each skill.
• The Reading and Writing course is organized into 11 skills and covers the full range of questions on the exam.

Will Official Digital SAT Prep show me where to focus when I study?

What is included in the math section of the digital sat.

• Algebra: Analyze, fluently solve, and create linear equations and inequalities, as well as analyze and fluently solve systems of equations.
• Advanced Math: Demonstrate attainment of skills and knowledge central for successful progression to more advanced math courses, including analyzing, fluently solving, interpreting, and creating a variety of equation types.
• Problem-Solving and Data Analysis: Apply quantitative reasoning about ratios, rates, and proportional relationships; understand and apply units and rates; and analyze and interpret one- and two-variable data.
• Geometry and Trigonometry: Solve problems that focus on perimeter, area, and volume; angles, triangles, and trigonometry; and circles.
• Multiple-choice: Questions offer four possible choices from which students must select the answer.
• Student-produced response: Questions require students to produce their own answer, which they then enter into the provided field.

How can I use Khan Academy’s digital SAT Math course to study for the digital SAT?

• Taking the course challenge: By attempting 40 questions from different lessons throughout the course, you can get credit for the skills you’ve already mastered and identify the skills where you could improve. You can also get credit within individual units by attempting unit tests.
• Working from top to bottom: The course takes all the math skills tested on the SAT and splits them into three difficulty levels: Foundations, Medium, and Advanced. By working through the course from top to bottom, you’ll encounter each skill at each level, keeping your practice balanced and ensuring no skills fall through the cracks.
• Taking quizzes and unit tests as you go: As you progress through different skills, you can take quizzes and unit tests to prove your mastery of the content. The more units you master in the course, the more prepared you’ll be for test day.

What is included in the Reading and Writing section of the digital SAT?

• Information and Ideas: Use, locate, interpret, and evaluate information from various texts and infographics.
• Craft and Structure: Determine the meaning of high-utility academic words and phrases in context, evaluate texts rhetorically, and make supportable connections between multiple related texts.
• Expression of Ideas: Use revision skills and knowledge to improve the effectiveness of written expression in order to accomplish specified rhetorical goals.
• Standard English Conventions: Use editing skills and knowledge to make texts conform to core conventions of Standard English sentence structure, usage, and punctuation.

How can I use Khan Academy’s digital SAT Reading and Writing course to study for the digital SAT?

• Work from top to bottom: The course takes all the reading and writing skills tested on the SAT and organizes them by focus. By working through the course from top to bottom, you’ll encounter each skill in turn, keeping your practice balanced and ensuring no skills fall through the cracks.
• Try exercises more than once: Because the digital SAT Reading and Writing test is new, there’s not as much content available for practice as there is for the SAT Math test. While we hope to expand this course in the future, we encourage you to squeeze every last bit of practice you can from the presently available materials. So, even if you’ve tried (and passed) an exercise before, you can get extra practice by attempting it again!

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What Colleges Require the SAT Essay?

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If you’re going to be applying to college soon, there’s a good chance that you’re already thinking about the SAT. Most colleges still require standardized test scores, and millions of students across the country tackle this exam each year. 

As you begin your college search, it’s important to understand the exact standardized test requirements of the colleges on your list. Some will be test-optional . Others require scores from the SAT or ACT. In addition, some will require that you submit scores from the optional essay portions of these tests. There may also be schools that require or recommend SAT Subject Tests. Knowing the exact testing policy at each school you’re considering will help you plan your test taking strategy, and begin test prep well in advance. 

If you’re planning to take the SAT, you won’t want to miss this complete overview of what colleges require the SAT essay. 

What is the SAT Essay? How is it Scored?

Before we dive into which schools require it, let’s take a closer look at what exactly the SAT essay is, and how it is scored. 

On the SAT Essay, students are provided with a written argument that they must read and analyze. Students have 50 minutes to read the passage, plan the essay, and write their response. Most successful responses stick to the standard five-paragraph essay format. To see an example prompt and scoring rubric, check out the Essay Sample Questions on the College Board website. 

It’s important to note here that the SAT Essay score is separate from your overall composite SAT score. It does not impact the score ranging from 400-1600 as reported on your score report. Instead of being included in your composite score, it is provided in addition to it. 

The Essay is scored on a scale from 2-8 in three areas of evaluation—Reading, Analysis, and Writing. Each essay is reviewed by two scorers, and scores between 1-4 are awarded in each dimension. These scores are then added together so that you’ll receive three scores for the SAT Essay—one for each dimension—ranging from 2–8 points. A perfect score on the essay would be 8/8/8, but the mean score on the essay is a 5 for Reading and Writing, and 3 for Analysis. This means if you can achieve any score over 5/3/5, you have scored above average on the essay. For a more complete look at how the test is scored, don’t miss our post What is a Good SAT Essay Score?

Should I Take the SAT Essay?

First of all, the SAT essay is technically an optional section, so no, you are not required to take it. That being said, some colleges do require applicants to take the SAT with Essay. If you choose not to take the essay portion of the test, you will not be an eligible applicant for any of these schools. 

The SAT Essay used to be required at many top colleges, but it has become optional at many schools. Now, among elite schools, only the University of California schools require the Essay. Other selective colleges like Duke University, Amherst College, and Colby College recommend the Essay, but it’s not required. 

Take a look at the colleges on these lists, and see if there are any you plan to apply to. Also be sure to double-check on your schools’ webpages, as these policies can change. 

If you think you might change your mind about which schools you want to apply to, you should take the SAT Essay to leave those doors open. This is why we generally recommend taking the essay, regardless of whether or not it’s required. After all, you can’t go back and just take the SAT Essay if you decide to change your mind and apply to a school that requires it—you’d have to retake the entire SAT.

Some colleges don’t require the essay, but do recommend it. In these cases, we always direct students to do what the college recommends. 

That being said, there is currently no option to withhold your essay score if you do terribly on it. Your essay scores will always be reported with your other test scores from that day, even to colleges that don’t require them. 

What Colleges Require the SAT with Essay?

There colleges request scores from the SAT with Essay in order to apply.

Schools that Require the SAT Essay:

• All of the University of California schools
• Benedictine University
• City University London
• Delaware State University
• DeSales University
• Dominican University of California
• Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
• Howard University
• John Wesley University
• Kentucky State University
• Martin Luther College
• Molloy College
• Schreiner University
• Soka University of America
• Southern California Institute of Architecture
• Texas A&M University—Galveston
• United States Military Academy (West Point)
• University of North Texas
• West Virginia University Institute of Technology
• Western Carolina University

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These schools do not require the SAT Essay, but do recommend that students submit it. At CollegeVine, our best advice is to always follow a college’s recommendations. 

Schools that Recommend the SAT Essay:

• Abilene Christian University
• Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
• Allegheny College
• Amherst College
• Art Institute of Houston
• Augsburg University
• Austin College
• Caldwell University
• California State University, Northridge
• Central Connecticut State University
• Central Michigan University
• Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
• Coastal Carolina University
• Colby College
• College of Wooster
• Colorado School of Mines
• Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art
• Corban University
• Cornerstone University
• Dallas Christian College
• Duke University
• Eastern Illinois University
• Eastern Nazarene College
• Easternn University
• Endicott College
• Five Towns College
• Gallaudet University
• George Washington University
• Georgia Highlands College
• Greenville University
• Gwynedd Mercy University
• High Point University
• Hofstra University
• Holy Family University
• Husson University
• Indiana University South Bend
• Indiana University Southeast
• Indiana Wesleyan University
• Inter American University of Puerto Rico: Barranquitas Campus
• Juilliard School
• Keiser University (West Palm Beach)
• Lehigh University
• Madonna University
• Manhattan College
• Marymount California University
• Massachusetts Maritime Academy
• McMurry University
• Mercy College
• Modern College of Design
• Montana Tech of the University of Montana
• Morehouse College
• Mount Saint Mary College
• Mount St. Joseph University
• National-Louis University
• New Jersey City University
• Nichols College
• North Park University
• Occidental College
• Ohio University
• Oregon State University
• Purdue University Northwest
• Randall University
• Randolph-Macon College
• Reading Area Community College
• Rowan University
• Rutgers University—Camden Campus
• Rutgers University—Newark Campus
• Saint Michael’s College
• Sciences Po
• Seton Hill University
• Shiloh University
• Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
• Silver Lake College of the Holy Family
• Southern Illinois University of Carbondale
• Southern Oregon University
• Spring Hill College
• Sul Ross State University
• SUNY Farmingdale State College
• SUNY University at Stony Brook
• Tarleton State University
• Texas A&M International University
• Texas A&M University
• Texas State University
• The King’s College
• United States Air Force Academy
• University of Evansville
• University of La Verne
• University of Mary Hardin—Baylor
• University of Massachusetts Amherst
• University of Minnesota: Twin Cities
• University of New England
• University of Northwestern—St. Paul
• University of the Virgin Islands
• University of Toledo
• University of Washington Bothell
• VanderCook College of Music
• Virginia Union University
• Wabash College
• Webb Institute
• Webber International University
• Wesleyan College
• William Jewell College

If any of the schools you are considering appear on either of the lists above, we recommend taking the SAT with Essay. In fact, we recommend that most, if not all, students take the SAT essay since it leaves more doors open in your college search. However, if you’re absolutely sure you won’t be applying to colleges that require or recommend the SAT with Essay, you can skip it.

Regardless, as you consider which colleges to add to your list, you’ll want to be certain you know what colleges require the SAT essay so that you can plan ahead for this part of your test. 

For help figuring out which schools might be a great fit for you, don’t miss our customized and innovative Chancing Engine and School List Generator . Here, we use a proprietary algorithm backed by over 100,000 data points to develop a school list based on your real admissions chances and preferences.

Want to know how your SAT score impacts your chances of acceptance to your dream schools? Our free Chancing Engine will not only help you predict your odds, but also let you know how you stack up against other applicants, and which aspects of your profile to improve. Sign up for your free CollegeVine account today to gain access to our Chancing Engine and get a jumpstart on your college strategy!

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The SAT Essay 2022-2023: What to Expect

Last updated: March 2022

How to write the SAT essay:

• Read the prompt to understand the task.
• Read the sample passage, underlining the examples and evidence.
• Come up with a thesis statement.
• Outline your SAT essay.
• Write a draft.
• Edit it: check arguments and evidence, make sure there’s a logic in the essay.
• Proofread your SAT essay: check grammar, spelling, sentence structure, etc.

Good news for those afraid of SAT essays:

This section is optional now. It means they won’t require you to write the SAT essay this year.

Many colleges still recommend it to see your writing and critical thinking skills.

What are those colleges that require SAT essays? How long is the SAT with essays? How to write it? And what is the SAT essay, after all?

Keep on reading to find out all the details, and get ready to earn the highest score for your essay this year.

Source: Unsplash

That’s what you’ll learn in this guide:

Table of Contents:

• Organization
• The SAT essay: to take or not to take?
• How to decide when to take the SAT
• How to register for the SAT
• Top changes to SAT essays in 2022
• How to write SAT essay?
• SAT essay tips
• Colleges that require SAT essay

What is the SAT?

Invented by Carl Brigham in 1923 , the SAT is owned and developed by College Board. It’s a not-for-profit organization in the USA, with over 6,000 schools, colleges, and universities being its members.

SAT Purpose

The purpose of the SAT is to measure your readiness for college. It’s focused on the knowledge and skills you’ve got in high school, and it provides colleges with one common score to compare all applicants.

College admission officers review the SAT score alongside with your other achievements such as:

• Your high school GPA.
• The admission interview.
• Your personal essay .
• Letters of recommendation from your teachers.
• The classes you took in school.
• Your extracurricular activities.

The higher your final score, the more options you’ll have for admission.

SAT Organization

The SAT includes three mandatory parts: Reading, Writing, and Math. As per 2016, an SAT essay is optional for applicants to take, though many colleges still require it.

You’ll have three hours to complete your SAT (without the essay). If you write the essay, you’ll have 3 hours 50 minutes to finish the whole test.

To succeed with the test, you should complete its all sections. If you leave some questions unanswered, your scores will be canceled.

The total you can get for your SAT is on a scale of 400–1600, with 200–800 for each of two sections: Reading and Writing + Math.

Sounds difficult?

Okay, here’s a kinda SAT score calculator for you:

If you write an SAT essay, you can get an extra 2–8 points for each of three criteria. What are these criteria, and what is a good essay score?

Two graders from College Board score each SAT essay on a scale of 1-4 across three criteria:

• Reading: it should be clear from your essay that you’ve understood the material. So, cover its main points and show how they interrelate.
• Analysis: an essay should include persuasive claims about the text’s main points. So, evaluate them and provide supporting evidence for its claims.
• Writing: an essay should be structured well. So, present your arguments logically, vary sentence structure, state a thesis, and avoid grammar/spelling mistakes.

Summed together from two graders, your SAT essay score can range between 2 and 8 for each criterion.

In 2018, the average SAT essay score was 5 out of 8 for Reading, 4 out of 8 for Analysis, and 5 out of 8 for Writing. ( Source )

As you see, the analysis was the most challenging part for students. That’s because it differs from what you do in standard essays:

In high school, you mostly write persuasive essays to give your personal opinion on the topic. In the SAT essay, they ask you to analyze the author’s opinion. It’s more like writing an expository essay . And although the structure of SAT essays doesn’t differ from that of a standard essay, it may be difficult for you to logically link the arguments and evidence of another person in a new paper.

SAT Dates in 2022-2023

As a rule, the SAT takes place on the first Saturday of November, December, May, and June. Other dates include late January, March or April, and late August or October.

In other words, you can take the exam almost every month. Just make sure you are ready and don’t miss a registration deadline for your chosen data.

Here are the SAT dates for 2022-2023:

The SAT Essay: to Take or Not to Take?

As you’ve read already, an SAT essay is optional now. However, there are many colleges and universities in the USA that still require it from applicants. So, if you decide not to write the SAT essay, you won’t be able to apply to these schools.

Later in this article, you’ll find the list of colleges that require the SAT essay. Make sure yours is not there; otherwise, you’ll have to write an essay. If you are still unsure of what college to apply, writing the essay would come in handy anyway.

The SAT with essay costs $57 as opposed to the $45 for the SAT without an essay section.

Pros and cons of taking the SAT essay:

How to Decide When to Take the SAT

Think strategically when choosing the date for taking your SAT:

• How much time do you need to prepare? Map it out, set goals, visualize your plan – and you’ll know what SAT date fits you best.
• How busy are you with other tasks at the moment? With tons of other assignments and commitments to complete, you’ll hardly find enough time for preparation. So, choose the season when your schedule is not that crazy.
• What is your college application timeline? You’ll need the SAT completed before you submit the application, so time accordingly.

How to Register for the SAT

First of all, choose the date, based on the tips above. Try to complete your SAT registration as soon as possible, because the late registration usually needs an extra fee.

Also, decide if you take the SAT essay. For that, find out if your chosen colleges require such essays. Also, check if they ask applicants to take SAT Subject Tests (they are given by College Board on individual subjects).

You can complete the registration on the College Board website , or fill in the Student Registration Booklet and send it by email. ( Ask your school counselor for this booklet .)

You’ll need to upload a picture of yourself and provide all your personal data. Make sure the photo and info match with those in your ID. Also, pay a registration fee.

Once your registration is complete, print out the Admission Ticket: you’ll need it when come to take your test.

Top Changes to SAT Essays in 2022

In case you don’t know, the SAT has changed since 2016. Many educational blogs and websites wrote about it because it was the year of the biggest change to this test, and it impacted students greatly.

Time, format, scores, sections… Everything is different now!

Here go the most significant changes to SAT essays in 2020 and later:

• The SAT essay is optional now.
• Students have 50 minutes for writing it. (The old SAT gave them only 25 minutes.)
• This essay is argumentative now, and it asks you to analyze another essay. (The old SAT required to answer a theoretical prompt in your essay.)
• The SAT essay is scored separately now. (The old SAT had an essay as a part of the Writing section, and the score range for it was 200-800.)

More changes to the overall SAT test are gathered and turned into the infographic by Student Tutor. Check here for details.

Or, let’s turn to SAT essay examples!

That’s what an SAT essay task looked back in 2016:

As you see, it’s focused on a more theoretical response. Graders didn’t estimate any analytical skills.

And that’s the example of a new SAT essay task:

It requires a more argumentative and analytical approach from students. Graders can see your critical thinking skills, not just your personal opinion on a given theoretical prompt.

Both examples are taken from Allen Cheng’s article at PrepScholar. He shared the complete guide to the SAT new rules and its most meaningful changes for students.

How to Write SAT Essay?

Below, you’ll find SAT essay tips that can help to improve your scores. But now let’s turn to an essay structure and your step by step tutorial on how to write SAT essays.

Lucky you are, the SAT essay structure is similar to any standard academic paper teachers asked you to write in class. Known as a 5-paragraph essay , its basic parts are:

• Introduction: 2-3 sentences with a hook and a thesis statement.
• Thesis statement: a central argument of your essay, so take your time to craft it.
• Supporting paragraphs (two or three, if time) : each of them should include a topic sentence, evidence, and a concluding sentence to demonstrate how it refers to your thesis statement.
• Conclusion: 3-4 sentences, summarizing your arguments in a concise manner.

Given that you have 50 minutes for writing the SAT essay, make sure to allocate this time like a boss:

• Read the prompt: 1 minute .
• Read the passage, annotating the core info: 15 minutes .
• Outline the essay: 5 minutes .
• Write an essay: 25 minutes .
• Check an essay: 4 minutes .

Don’t hurry up to read the passage: pay attention to the task (prompt) itself, as it will help you understand what information and evidence to concentrate. So, here we have the first step to writing a good SAT essay: read the prompt before the passage .

After that, read the sample passage carefully . Underline the evidence and examples you can use to answer the prompt in your essay. Remember, that your SAT essay will be scored for Reading , so you’ll need to demonstrate that you understand the text’s main points.

To get a high score for Analysis , you’ll need to explain and evaluate the author’s arguments. So, when reading the passage, identify his central claim and instruments he uses to support it (reasoning, evidence, stylistic elements). Focus on the most relevant and persuasive ones.

State your thesis . It should sum up your assessment of the author’s argument. Make it concise and clear, but don’t add any personal attitudes. Remember: you analyze the author’s view rather than share your own. Stay objective when reading the passage and then creating your central claim.

Now it’s time for outlining your essay. Map out it briefly in the introduction, then specify topic sentences and evidence for each paragraph of your essay’s body. Write the draft , with an essay conclusion restating your thesis and summarizing the whole paper.

Check your SAT essay: make sure to use effective language and word choice. Use a variety of sentence structures but stay clear and informative. Your essay gets scores for Writing too, and high scores go to works that are “cohesive and demonstrate highly effective use and command of language.” ( Source )

Source: Giphy

So, avoid low-level vocabulary, correct all spelling and grammar mistakes, and check if you use the right transitional phrases to describe relationships between the arguments in your essay.

SAT Essay Tips

Everyone loves tips, especially if they help to achieve goals and conquer new peaks. And when your goal is a high score for an SAT essay, you need tips more than ever. No wonder:

Who doesn’t want to get a magic bullet to hit the target at one stroke, right?

We asked our team of professional academic writers to give readers their recommendations on essay writing, and here go the essay tips they’ve shared:

What you can do to earn high scores for the SAT essay:

• Understand the scoring system.
• Study essay samples; analyze their structure.
• Practice a lot: take sample prompts and spend 50 minutes on writing essays based on them.
• Learn to analyze texts and see central claims and evidence in them.
• During the SAT, read the prompt before the passage. Always.
• Use accurate facts: support your points with evidence from the passage.
• Be objective: answer the prompt but don’t add any personal opinion or points.
• Take your time to organize the SAT essay, and don’t forget to revise it.
• Make your essay longer than one page: though they say length doesn’t matter, your short response might be not enough for graders to see your writing skills — and you score for the Writing criterion will suffer.
• Follow standard tips for essay writing: use straightforward language, give a clear thesis, structure your essay logically.
• Use a timer when practicing your SAT essay: remember that you’ll have 50 minutes only, so make time for analyzing, planning, writing, and revising it.

Colleges That Require SAT Essay

Your decision to take the optional SAT essay might heavily depend on which college you are going to apply.

So, let’s check what colleges require SAT essays. If yours isn’t in the list, feel free to catch a break: you won’t have to prepare for this writing test and spend money on taking it. However, we would recommend you to double-check with each school at their official websites. (Rules change, you know, and the information tends to go out of date in time.)

We took the most popular colleges among US students only. If your school isn’t on the list, check SAT essay policies of all educational institutes at the official College Board website.

SAT Essay Examples

As mentioned, you need to practice a lot to write the SAT essay worth a high score. That’s true. But what else you can do is pre-plan the examples and evidence you’ll use in the essay! For that, analyze SAT essay examples available online.

Yes, the specifics of your prompt will differ; but they can help choose the types of examples you’ll use to explain the author’s argument.

College Board shares many SAT essay examples with detailed analysis and explanations of why they gave these or those scores to students. They’ll help you understand what to expect from your essay and what writing weaknesses of yours to improve.

This is the SAT essay example that has got 2/1/1 from graders.

(Oops, you better don’t write like that!)

And this work has got 4/4/4 points! See the difference:

(c) College Board

Additional Resources to Check:

• The SAT Student Guide 2022, College Board
• SAT Essay Practice on Khan Academy
• Practice With a Redesigned SAT Essay Prompts
• Best Books to Prepare for SAT
• SAT Essay Prompts: The Complete List

Related posts

• What Is the Difference between Primary and Secondary Sources
• Common Types of Plagiarism with Examples
• Exemplification Essay – Ideas and Tips

Our Writing Guides

Digital SAT – Everything you need to know

• Author: Litera Centre
• Updated: January 11, 2023
• Language: English

Globalization is at its zenith in the current times. Nearly 30 lakh aspirants across the globe attempt the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) every year at various test centers in more than 170 countries to study in various national and international institutions. SAT is conducted at least five times every year in the months of March, May, August, October, and December for different groups of students whether international or belonging to US schools.

SAT is a comprehensive test globally accepted by colleges and universities for admission into various bachelor or undergraduate study programs across the world. It is conducted for a full score of 1600 of which a score range of 1200-1600 opens the aspirants to a plethora of admission and scholarship opportunities worldwide.

The test hitherto has been a three-hour long PBT or pen & paper-based test. But the College Board of the United States has come up with a transition to the digital mode called the Digital SAT . This transition will be effective from 2023 at all the international test centers and 2024 at all the US schools. The recent SAT conducted on 3 December 2022 was the last ever pen-paper version of the test.

According to the College Board, the new Digital SAT has been introduced to solemnize the test and make it the best possible option for students. Let’s dive into the intricacies of the new SAT.

1. Digital SAT:

Digital SAT is the newly transitioned digital version of the existing Scholastic Assessment Test popularly known as SAT. This will be conducted digitally, meaning online on an electronic device such as a laptop or a tablet.

Students are supposed to take the test on the Digital SAT Suite Application administered by the College Board’s digital testing application. But that doesn’t imply the test can be taken anywhere. The candidates should take the test at a test center where they can carry their devices and will be guided to download the testing application for the assessment, or the candidates can download the same on their own.

The Digital SAT will be first made available for international students in the spring of 2023 and then to US students in the spring of 2024. If the international students missed the 2022 SAT on 3 December, which was the last pen-paper-based test, their only option is the next Digital SAT of March 2023, which will be the first-ever digital test.

2. SAT Vs DSAT:

The existing version of SAT which is a pen-paper test is an exhaustive version of SAT with separate Reading & Writing Language Sections and Math, aimed to assess the skills and knowledge of the aspirants for their required course of study and career.

It takes place for three hours for a full score of 1600. The digital transition of SAT is called Digital SAT or DSAT. In contrast to the exhaustive nature of the current SAT, DSAT will be an adaptive version aimed at optimisation of the candidate’s scoring accordingly.

Similarities:

• Both versions of assessments are divided into two sections each of which has two modules adaptive to the candidate’s performance.
• They both aim at the evaluation of the candidate’s skills and readiness.
• The test is for a total score of 1600.
• The test has to be taken at a scheduled test center.
• Practice materials free of cost are available for both modes of assessment.
• Their validity is similar for both course admission as well as for scholarships.

SAT Vs DSAT(Differences):

Following is the overview of major changes from SAT to DSAT:

3. The New SAT:

The conventional SAT had 4+1 sections with an optional Essay writing section, each section separately timed and assessed.

The breakdown is as follows:

• SAT Reading (65 questions – 65 minutes)
• SAT Math (no calculator) (20 questions – 25 minutes)
• SAT Math (calculator) (38 questions – 55 minutes)
• SAT Writing and Language (44 questions – 35 minutes)
• SAT Essay Writing (optional) (1 question – 50 minutes)

The Digital SAT has both Reading and Writing sections combined into one and a separate Math section. Both areas have 2 modules each adaptive and separately timed. In the Reading and Writing Sections earlier, a specific passage format was followed in which one long passage and multiple questions were given to answer comprehending the same.

Now, each question will have 1 or 2 short passages or texts specific to the question. So, a wide spectrum of contexts and genres could be covered and assessed.

DSAT follows an adaptive model i.e., each module has 3 levels – easy, medium, and hard. The level of Module 2 depends on the candidate’s performance in Module 1. 

• If Module 1 has more correct responses, Module 2 will be a harder one but the scoring range will be higher.
• If Module 2 has lesser correct responses, Module 2 will be an easier one but the scoring range will be lower.

SAT Reading and Writing Section : 2 Modules – 64 minutes

• Module 1: 20 operational & 2 pre-test questions – 32 minutes
• Module 2: 20 operational & 2 pre-test questions – 35 minutes

SAT Math : 2 Modules – 70 minutes

• Module 1: 20 operational & 2 pre-test questions – 35 minutes

4. What’s New?

While the traditional pen-paper SAT has its own merits, the new DSAT has scores of interesting elements facilitated by technology. Some of them are:

• The first feature is the reduced exam time which earlier was over 3 hours (50 minutes more with essay) down to just 2 hours 14 minutes now.
• The test is taken digitally on a wide range of devices like laptops and tablets.
• The Digital SAT Suite has a separately timed sections feature which helps the candidates keep an eye on the timer and pace accordingly.
• SAT has two Math sections, one no-calculator section and one allowing calculator use. DSAT moves away from the no-calculator attribute. The DSAT suite application has an in-built Desmos Graphing Calculator to facilitate the working of arithmetic operations.
• Various topics and areas are covered in the passages or texts which offer a personally relatable and interesting view similar to the ones of one’s school or college examinations. 
• The application displays only one question at a time to fully focus on one thing at a time.
• The number of sections has been reduced to only 2 equally-lengthed and separately timed ones with a 10-minute break in between.
• Increased average time per question. From just 60-62 seconds in the case of SAT to 75 seconds in Digital SAT.
• It is based on a multi-stage adaptive model in which the performance is assessed for the initial module and the following one whether an easier or a harder one is accommodated accordingly. [ Refer to DSAT in 3. The New SAT]
• The application is equipped in such a manner that it is made tolerant of minor interruptions such as a momentary power cut, internet buffering, device battery run-out, and other minor network issues.
• Testing time loss is taken care of. The DSAT suite application survives the cases of battery drain or a momentary power off etc in the case which, one has to only plug in an adapter or a charger to the device and resume immediately. It autosaves the responses and allows the resume of the test without losing much testing time.
• Options such as mark for review and view reference sheet are available.
• One can even highlight, annotate and make a note whenever and wherever required.
• Digital SAT greatly subtracts the hassle of printing, shipping, packing-unpacking, and distribution of test materials to test centers.
• It lowers the admin time including the time for pre and post-test activities in case of a pen-paper test.
• DSAT amplifies the feasibility and flexibility of taking the test.
• Delivers faster results than the traditional SAT which is 2-3 weeks whereas DSAT results can be accessed in only a few days.
• The digital SAT is flexible, more secure and easier. It nullifies the probability of copying or malpractice during the test making it more reliable.

5. Litera Center SAT:

Litera Center is a globally renowned Ed-tech platform catering to the educational needs of students of grades 6-12 of IB and IGCSE curriculums, AS & A level classes, SAT tuitions and guidance to the students in fulfilling their academic aspirations.

It is a student-friendly, reliable and affordable online tuition platform for students. Litera Center offers complete and comprehensive SAT classes and guidance to aspirants. Click here to get complete information about SAT tuition and guidance from Litera Center.

International students of the 2023 class aspiring for SAT will be the first ones to take the Digital SAT or DSAT in the spring of 2023 i.e., in March 2023 and they will not be able to go for pen-paper SAT again since the College Board has decided to make SAT completely digital 2023 onwards.

While the conventional SAT for international students is a missed opportunity, the students of US schools can attempt the pen-paper SAT in 2023 while they still can since SAT will go entirely digital across the world notwithstanding whether a US school or international student from 2024 onward.

Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ )

Does the digital sat have an essay.

No, the Digital SAT (dSAT) does not have an essay section. The essay section was optional in the traditional pen-and-paper SAT, but it was removed in the digital format transition. The dSAT evaluates skills in Reading, Writing, and Math content, but no essay component exists.

What is DSAT vs SAT?

The Digital SAT (DSAT) is the digital version of the SAT exam. It is administered on computers or other digital devices like laptops and tablets. The DSAT has several features facilitated by technology, including reduced exam time and separately timed sections. It is designed to provide students with a more efficient and streamlined testing experience. On the other hand, the SAT refers to the traditional pen-and-paper version of the exam. It consists of sections in Reading, Writing, and Math, with an optional essay section. The SAT has been administered in this format for many years before the introduction of the DSAT 

Is there an essay on the Digital SAT ?

No, the Digital SAT does not include an essay section. The essay section was removed from the linear SAT in 2021 and is not part of the digital exam version. The Digital SAT consists of combined Reading and Writing sections and a separate Math section, all taken digitally on devices like laptops and tablets.

What is the DSAT?

The DSAT stands for Digital SAT, the same as the DSAT mentioned earlier. The digital version of the SAT exam is taken on a computer or other digital devices. The DSAT retains the same content areas as the traditional SAT, including Reading, Writing, and Math, but it does not include an essay section. The DSAT offers features such as reduced exam time and separately timed sections to enhance the testing experience for students.

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Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, which colleges require the sat essay complete list.

SAT Logistics , SAT Essay

Planning to take the SAT? Before you sign up, you need to decide whether you're going to take the test with or without the optional Essay . How should you pick? Well, some colleges require that you apply with the SAT with Essay; others don't care whether you submit an SAT score with or without the Essay.

In this article, I'll provide you with a complete list of colleges that require or recommend taking the SAT with the Essay .

UPDATE: SAT Essay No Longer Offered

In January 2021, the College Board announced that after June 2021, it would no longer offer the Essay portion of the SAT (except at schools who opt in during School Day Testing). It is now no longer possible to take the SAT Essay, unless your school is one of the small number who choose to offer it during SAT School Day Testing.

While most colleges had already made SAT Essay scores optional, this move by the College Board means no colleges now require the SAT Essay. It will also likely lead to additional college application changes such not looking at essay scores at all for the SAT or ACT, as well as potentially requiring additional writing samples for placement.

What does the end of the SAT Essay mean for your college applications? Check out our article on the College Board's SAT Essay decision for everything you need to know.

What Is the Optional SAT Essay?

The redesigned SAT debuted in March 2016 with a now-optional Essay section. For the Essay, you have 50 minutes to read a passage (similar to those you see on the Reading section ) and write an essay dissecting how the author made the argument . Did the author use evidence to support the main claim? Appeals to emotion? Specific word choice?

If you take the SAT without Essay, the test length is three hours . However, if you take the SAT with Essay, the optional Essay adds 50 minutes . It also costs more to take the SAT with Essay : $64.50 vs $49.50 without the Essay.

Don't automatically assume you must take the Essay. Whether it's important for you depends on which schools (and scholarships) you're applying to and what the rest of your application looks like. I'll go into more depth later about how to decide which version of the SAT to take.

List of Schools That Require the SAT With Essay

Below, I've compiled a list of colleges that require or recommend taking the SAT with Essay. All data comes from the College Board and some individual schools we consulted separately.

Note: This list is subject to change, so make sure to double-check with each school you're applying to.

Surprisingly (and in contrast to how it's been in the past), top schools mostly do not require the SAT essay . Currently, no Ivy League School requires students to take the SAT with Essay; the same is true for Stanford, Caltech, Duke, Georgetown, Johns Hopkins, MIT, Northwestern, NYU, and UChicago. Many of these schools no longer even recommend students to take the SAT with Essay, which is a huge turnaround from just a couple of years ago.

Similarly, most liberal arts colleges do not require or recommend the SAT with Essay ; however, there are some exceptions, such as Soka University, which does require it.

In general, most state schools also do not require the SAT with Essay, though there's still a significant portion that do. There tends to be some weird variance even within states. For example, all University of California schools require the SAT with Essay, but most of the California State University schools do not.

Regardless of the types of schools you're applying to, don't assume that they all ask for the SAT with Essay . Check with every school to make sure you understand their testing requirements.

How to Decide Whether to Take the SAT Essay: 4 Questions

When making your decision about whether to take the SAT with Essay or the SAT without Essay, you'll need to consider the following four questions.

#1: Do Any Schools I Want to Apply to Require the SAT Essay?

If you're applying to any school that requires the Essay, then you must take the SAT with Essay . If you take the SAT without Essay, your application will be incomplete and you won't get admitted. By contrast, if you apply to any schools that don't require the SAT Essay, you can still take the SAT with Essay since these schools will accept both types of SAT scores (with or without Essay).

To reiterate, colleges that require the SAT Essay won't consider your score if you took the SAT without the Essay . The last thing you want to do is take the SAT without the Essay and get a good score—but then find out that one of your target schools requires you to take the SAT with Essay.

Remember that some colleges change their application policies from year to year, so make sure to double-check the testing policies of the schools you're applying to .

#2: Do Any Schools I Want to Apply to Recommend the SAT Essay?

If you're not applying to any schools that require the SAT Essay section but are applying to some that recommend it, then I'd still suggest taking it . This gives you another dimension schools can use to evaluate your application; however, there are some cases in which you shouldn't take the SAT with Essay.

If, for some reason, you do not qualify for SAT fee waivers and paying the extra cost to take the SAT with Essay would be a financial burden to you , then please don't feel as if you have to take it. In this case, it's fine to take the SAT without Essay instead.

In addition, if you really struggle to write essays under time constraints (due to anxiety), you might want to opt out of the Essay . That said, I only recommend this for students who normally have strong English and writing skills but struggle to write coherent essays when there's the added pressure of a time constraint.

For example, do you get As on essays you can work on at home but Cs on in-class essays because you get easily nervous? If that's the case, taking the SAT with Essay might not be a good idea.

#3: Am I Applying to Any Scholarships That Require an SAT With Essay Score?

Many scholarships (such as National Merit ) require you to submit SAT scores , and some specifically want SAT with Essay scores.

Therefore, be sure to check the requirements of each scholarship you're planning on applying for . While scholarships that don't require or recommend the SAT Essay should still accept your SAT with Essay score, scholarships that require the Essay section will not consider your SAT score if you took the no-essay version .

#4: Will the SAT Essay Enhance My Application in Other Ways?

Generally speaking, taking the SAT Essay if it's not required won't add a lot to your application. In truth, colleges that don't recommend or require the Essay really don't pay much attention to it.

Nevertheless, the Essay might be helpful for international students who want to prove they have strong English skills and who think they'll do especially well on it. If you fall into this category and feel confident you'll get a high score on it ( after doing practice essays , for example), definitely consider taking the SAT with Essay.

On the other hand, if you don't think you'll do well on the Essay, I recommend against taking it.

What's Next?

Need help preparing for the SAT? Read our ultimate study guide to get expert tips on prep and access to the best free online resources. If you're taking the test soon, learn how to cram for the SAT .

Want to learn more about the SAT Essay? Check out our step-by-step guide to writing a great essay .

Not sure where you want to go to college? Learn how to do college research right and figure out your SAT target score .

Ready to go beyond just reading about the SAT? Then you'll love the free five-day trial for our SAT Complete Prep program . Designed and written by PrepScholar SAT experts , our SAT program customizes to your skill level in over 40 subskills so that you can focus your studying on what will get you the biggest score gains.

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As an SAT/ACT tutor, Dora has guided many students to test prep success. She loves watching students succeed and is committed to helping you get there. Dora received a full-tuition merit based scholarship to University of Southern California. She graduated magna cum laude and scored in the 99th percentile on the ACT. She is also passionate about acting, writing, and photography.

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