The SAT math section requires students to respond to a number of questions, both multiple choice and grid-ins, in which students provide their own response. The math exam covers a wide variety of information, from algebra to geometry to logic. Most students will have seen the covered topics by their third year in high school. The math section is scored out of 800 points. The majority of SCAD applicants score between 470 and 580 on the math section of the SAT. However, students who are applying to the professional architecture program must score above 540 (this requirement can also be met by scoring above 23 on the math section of the ACT).
The critical reading section of the SAT tests students' ability to understand written passages. The section includes both sentence completions, where one word from the sentence is missing, and longer passages, in which students read the passage and respond to questions about what they've read. Like the math section, the critical reading is scored out of 800 points. In general, SCAD's incoming student body scores between 480 and 590 on the SAT critical reading section. Foreign students who do not wish to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language or other English language examinations can prove their mastery of the language by scoring above 500 on this section of the exam.
The most recent addition to the SAT, the writing section is divided into multiple-choice questions, which ask students to identify the errors in sentences or to improve paragraphs, and the essay. Always the first section of the exam, the essay asks students to respond to a provided quote and question. It does not require outside knowledge. The multiple-choice and essay sections combine for a total possible score of 800 points. The average incoming SCAD student scores between 470 and 580 on the SAT Writing section. Other essays may be required for admission, as well, depending on which program the student applies to.