SAT Exam Syllabus 2025: Check Section-wise SAT Syllabus

SAT Exam Syllabus 2025: Check Section-wise SAT Syllabus

Reading Time11 minutes/Updated on 10-09-2025

Indian students who wish to get admission in the best colleges in the US and around the world must learn about the SAT exam syllabus. The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT exam full form) is an important test for getting into college and knowing what subjects it covers will help you make a study plan. It is even more important to know the details of the SAT exam before you start studying because it is now fully digital, and the types and lengths of questions have changed.

sat exam syllabus

Dive into the article to know about the SAT exam syllabus in detail. But before that, check out the key updates rolled out this year.

SAT Exam Syllabus Key Updates in 2025

For 2025, the SAT has made changes to its structure that affect both the test format and the syllabus. The whole test is now digital, which means that the test is shorter and the sections have been changed. Here are the most important changes:

  • There are only two parts to the SAT now: Reading and Writing (combined), and Math. There are no separate science or essay parts.
  • There are now only 98 questions in total: 54 for reading and writing, and 44 for maths.
  • The exam time is cut down to 2 hours and 14 minutes, which made preparing for the SAT exam easier.
  • Adaptive question modules make the test more tailored to you.
  • You can use calculators in all of the Math sections.
  • Reading and writing passages are shorter and more focused (25–150 words)
  • More focus on real-world context and reasoning, which affects students from different backgrounds, including those who are studying for the SAT exam syllabus for Indian students.

As an international student, you are required to give additional tests besides SAT. Check our guide on the Top 10 Exams to Study Abroad.

SAT Exam Pattern 2025

Before you can understand the SAT syllabus, you need to look at the SAT exam pattern. The following is the most recent and only proposed SAT 2025 exam pattern. It is broken up into sections and is almost an hour shorter than the previous one. Take a look at the most recent SAT Digital exam pattern for 2025 below.

Digital ParametersDigital Reading & Writing SectionDigital Math Section
FormatTwo-staged: the first phase evaluates the Reading section, while the second phase evaluates the Writing section. The two are administered in modules that are timed independently.Two-staged: The mathematics component is conducted in two timed modules.
Test Length1st module:

  • 25 operational questions
  • 2 pretest questions
1st module:

  • 20 operational questions
  • 2 pretest questions
1st module: 32 minutes

2nd module: 32 minutes

1st module: 35 minutes

2nd module: 35 minutes

Total Questions5444
Total Time Allocated = 134 minutes64 minutes70 minutes
Scores ReportedTotal score calculation: Reading & Writing + Math section scores
Question TypeDiscrete; MCQs with four optionsMCQ (75%) and student-produced response (SPR)(25%)
Topics TestedLiterature, History / Social Studies, Humanities and ScienceScience, Social Science, and real-world related topics
Informational GraphicsTested, includes tables, bar graphs, line graphsAlso tested
  • SAT exam subjects: English (combined Reading & Writing) and Math
  • Total marks of SAT: 1600 (800 per section)
  • SAT exam duration: 2 hours 14 minutes with a 10-minute break in between

Are you curious if you can get admitted without the test? Read our guide on studying in the USA without SAT to know your options.

SAT Exam Syllabus 2025

A lot of students are curious about how different the SAT test syllabus is for 2025. The syllabus is similar to what is taught in high school. It focuses on English language analysis and maths up to class 12, so anyone can take it.

SAT English Syllabus: Digital Reading & Writing Syllabus 2025

This section combines reading and writing into one interactive module to test your understanding, grammar, and editing skills. It uses short passages (25–150 words) from Literature, History/Social Studies, humanities, and Science. After each passage, there are multiple-choice questions that are meant to:

Reading & Writing Section AreasDescriptionWeightage
Craft and StructureComprehending word meanings and context28%
Information and IdeasUnderstanding information, ideas, and data from the text26%
Standard English ConventionsShowing that you know how to use correct grammar and sentence structure26%
Expression of IdeasRevising and making ideas clearer20%

Types of Questions in the Reading & Writing Section

Here’s what students can expect in the SAT English syllabus:

  • Vocabulary in context: Find out what words mean in the passage
  • Command of evidence: Back up your answers with evidence from the text
  • Rhetorical synthesis: Look at the author’s purpose and how their ideas change
  • Grammar and punctuation: How to use them correctly and where to put them in a sentence
  • Revising for effectiveness: Editing passages to make them clearer and more effective

There are four choices for each question, and there is no negative marking. They focus on reasoning and understanding instead of memorising things.

SAT Math Syllabus 2025

Maths Section AreasTopicsWeightage
AlgebraLinear equations, inequalities, and functions35%
Advanced MathPolynomials, nonlinear equations, and complex functions35%
Problem Solving & Data AnalysisRatios, statistics, data interpretation, and probability15%
Geometry & TrigonometryAngles, triangles, circles, area/volume, and trigonometric ratios15%

Two main question types:

  • MCQs (75%)
  • Student-produced response (SPR, 25%) where students input numerical answers

All math questions permit calculator use, making the SAT more manageable for those focusing on quantitative skills.

Download the SAT exam syllabus here 

Digital SAT Pattern vs Old SAT Pattern 

The table below highlights all key differences between the old paper-based SAT and the new digital SAT exam format for 2025.

FeatureOld SAT Pattern (Paper-Based)Digital SAT Pattern (2025)
ModePaper and pencilOnline
Test sectionsReading, Writing & Language, Math + EssayReading & Writing (combined), Math
Duration3 hours (+ Essay time)2 hours 14 minutes
EssayOptional Essay sectionNo Essay section
Math calculator policyCalculator allowed only in partCalculator allowed throughout 
Total Questions (RW/Math)52 RW / 58 Math54 RW / 44 Math
Time Per SectionRW: 100 mins; Math: 80 minsRW: 64 mins; Math: 70

SAT Exam Preparation Tips 2025

Getting ready for the SAT? Here are some expert tips for getting ready for the SAT exam:

  • Know the syllabus and start early: Use things like the SAT syllabus pdf as a guide.
  • Use digital modules to practice: Get used to the new format by taking full-length mock tests online.
  • Use online coaching: Look into coaching sites that are made for Indian students.
  • Manage time: Learn how to manage your time by practising test conditions and giving each module a set amount of time.
  • Focus on weak areas: Make sure to spend extra time on SAT exam subjects that give you trouble, like Maths or English.
  • Improve your vocabulary and speed at math: Go over common grammar and math topics regularly to practice.
  • Look over sample questions: Look at past years’ papers to get a feel for how hard the questions are.

Study in the US without SAT with The WorldGrad

Applying directly to US universities would require you to take the SAT exam. With The WorldGrad, you can study in top US universities without taking the SAT exam. We are partnered with 28 US universities. You start your studies from your home country with our Smart Programs, build a strong academic profile, and then transfer to our partner universities in the US. Our Smart Programs include All American Undergraduate Program and All American Graduate Program.

This makes the process smoother, more affordable, and accessible for students who want to pursue higher education in the US without the pressure of SAT exams.

Conclusion

The SAT exam syllabus for 2025 is streamlined and adaptable, testing the basic analytical and quantitative skills necessary for academic success abroad. Indian students benefit from a syllabus that matches what they learn in school, which makes studying for this test more organised and useful.

SAT Exam Syllabus FAQs

Q1. What is the SAT exam full form?

A1. SAT stands for Scholastic Assessment Test, used for college admissions globally.

Q2. What are the primary SAT exam subjects?

A2. English (Reading & Writing) and Math.

Q3. What are the total marks of the SAT exam?

A3. The test is scored out of 1600 marks: 800 for Reading & Writing, 800 for Math.

Q4. What is the SAT exam pattern for Indian students?

A4. Two sections with 98 questions (54 Reading & Writing, 44 Math), digital format.

Q5. What is the SAT exam duration?

A5. The total SAT exam duration is 2 hours 14 minutes.

Q6. What are the key topics in the SAT Maths syllabus?

A6. Algebra, Advanced Math, Data Analysis, Geometry & Trigonometry.

Q7. Can I study in the US without taking the SAT exam?

A7. Yes, with The WorldGrad, you get SAT exam waivers. Therefore, you can study in the US without taking the SAT exam.

Stanley Lazarus Chelli

Author: Stanley Lazarus Chelli

Stanley is our seasoned writer known for his deep knowledge of the ed-tech industry. He delivers insightful and impactful content that resonates with readers. Beyond his exceptional writing abilities, he is a die-hard petrolhead with a profound love for the automotive industry. Additionally, Stanley is a soon-to-be professional keyboardist.