Format and timing
How long is the SAT?
The standard digital SAT has 134 minutes of testing and a 10-minute break: 2 hours 24 minutes once testing begins. Arrival, check-in, and instructions add time; approved accommodations or a School Day essay can change the schedule.
Time by module
Reading and Writing comes first, followed by the break and Math. There is no scheduled break between the two modules within a section.
| Part | Questions | Standard time |
|---|---|---|
| Reading and Writing, module 1 | 27 | 32 minutes |
| Reading and Writing, module 2 | 27 | 32 minutes |
| Break | — | 10 minutes |
| Math, module 1 | 22 | 35 minutes |
| Math, module 2 | 22 | 35 minutes |
When will I be finished?
Do not calculate pickup from arrival time plus 2 hours 24 minutes. Testing starts after check-in and instructions, and a delayed start delays dismissal. Use the arrival instructions on your admission ticket and leave room for the center to finish the administration.
A useful rehearsal is to complete four modules in order, with one 10-minute break. Separately record setup time so it does not get mistaken for testing time. Timed modules let you practice a section when a full test will not fit.
Extended time and the essay
Follow your approved accommodations rather than multiplying the entire visit by a fixed number: breaks and other arrangements may differ. Some state-provided SAT School Day administrations include a separate 50-minute essay. Ask the school coordinator for that day’s schedule.