The SAT General Test is broken into ten sections, totaling three hours and 45 minutes: seven 25-minute sections, two 20-minute sections, and one 10-minute section. Each section is separately timed, so that you cannot use extra time from one section to answer more questions in the next. The test begins with a 25-minute Essay section and ends with a 10-minute Writing multiple choice section. Before the test begins, the proctor will introduce the test and students will fill out their answer grids with identification information. Expect to arrive at the test site early to be ready for this process.
The College Board’s Guide for Counselors on the SAT states that students receive two five-minute breaks as well as a one-minute break; College Board’s Professionals website lists three five-minute breaks. Regardless of slight variations, you should expect to receive three short breaks during the test. Use these breaks for standing and stretching, eating snacks or drinking beverages, and using the restroom. You may not use a cell phone, talk about the test or consult outside resources during breaks.
Students with documented disabilities receive timing accommodations on the SAT. Students given 50 percent extended time will be given 38 minutes for each 25-minute section, 30 minutes for each 20-minute section and 15 minutes for the 10-minute section, with two five-minute breaks after sections 2 and 6 and a one-minute break after section 4. Students with 100 percent extended time take the test over two days and are granted 50 minutes for a 25-minute section, 40 minutes for a 20-minute section and 20 minutes for the 10-minute section. These students receive a five-minute break on each day, the first after section 2 and the second after section 6.
SAT Subject Tests are unique tests which evaluate your skills in specific topics, such as math or history. Each Subject Test takes one hour and students may take up to three Subject Tests on a single day. Students with documented timing accommodations can receive 90 minutes or two hours to complete the one-hour test, depending on the degree of their documented disability.