SAT Test for Admission to Turkish Universities

Now, let’s learn about the SAT test and its importance in university admissions and helping students gain acceptance to Turkish universities.

The SAT test is one of the most well-known university entrance exams in Turkey. 

It is administered by a non-profit organization in the United States called College Board, founded in December 1899. 

This test assesses academic proficiency and evaluates a student’s academic skills in specific areas such as English language, mathematics, and some scientific knowledge.

The university is provided with this data for each student who takes the SAT test, along with the specialization that might suit the student. 

Consequently, a comparison is made between students to determine their majors and whether to accept or reject their applications.

 It is a paper-based test consisting of multiple-choice questions. The purpose of the SAT exam in Turkey is to assist students in gaining admission to distinguished Turkish universities for undergraduate and graduate studies.

The SAT test is offered seven times a year in the following months: March, May, June, August, October, November, and finally, December.

Key topics in this article include:

– Do all universities in Turkey require the SAT test?
– Types of SAT tests and their contents.
– Scoring in the SAT test.
– Required documents for SAT registration.
– How to register for the SAT test.
– Preparation time for the SAT test.
– Important tips for passing the SAT test.
– What is the difference between the SAT test and YÖS (Foreign Student Exam)?

Do all universities in Turkey require the SAT test?

Several Turkish universities require the SAT exam as part of their essential admission criteria. In recent times, this number has been increasing, including prestigious universities such as Yildiz Technical University, Bosphorus University, Marmara University, Hacettepe University, Istanbul Technical University, Gazi University, Orta Dogu Teknik University, Bogazici University, and other renowned institutions. Some Turkish universities accept applicants without the SAT test but prefer students holding this certification over others during the admissions process.

Types of SAT tests and their contents

The SAT test consists of two types:

1. SAT 1: This is the widely recognized exam required by public universities in Turkey. It assesses proficiency in mathematics, writing, and reading. It comprises three sections:

– Mathematics: 20 multiple-choice questions in 25 minutes.
– Mathematics: 10 standard questions and 8 multiple-choice questions in 25 minutes.
– Mathematics: 16 multiple-choice questions in 20 minutes.

SAT 2: Turkish universities do not require this test, but it is necessary for specific majors. 

Duration of the SAT test

The total time for the SAT exam is three hours, distributed as follows:

– 65 minutes for reading.
– 25 minutes for math without a calculator.
– 55 minutes for math with a calculator.
– 35 minutes for reading and writing.
– 50 minutes for the optional essay section.
The SAT test comprises 154 multiple-choice questions in total.

Scoring in the SAT test

Each section of the SAT test is scored between 200 and 800 points, and each Turkish university sets its own minimum acceptable score for admission. 

The highest possible SAT score is 1600 points, which is considered excellent, while the lowest score is regarded as poor.

Required documents for SAT registration

– An ID card with a photo or a valid government-issued student ID.
– Original documents are required, and printed or electronic documents will not be accepted.
– The photo on the SAT admission ticket must match the photo on the ID.
– All documents submitted must be in English and have clear copies.
– The candidate’s full name and surname must be written correctly on the documents.
– Candidates should be in good mental and physical condition on the day of the test.

How to register for the SAT test

Registration for the SAT test is done exclusively through the official SAT website. 

Students need to create an account, provide the required information, choose a test center, pay the fees (which are $50 or $65 with the optional essay), and additional fees may apply for international testing centers.

Preparation time for the SAT test

SAT test preparation typically takes between 4 to 8 months.

 There are preparatory courses available at specialized institutes and books that students use for these courses.

Important tips for passing the SAT test

– Students should pay attention to the correct timing for answering questions since each section of the SAT test has a specific time limit.
– When receiving the test questions, candidates should note the number of questions and allocate a specific time to answer each one.
– It’s essential to manage stress and pressure before the test day since being in good mental and physical condition during the test helps improve focus.
– If a challenging question takes a long time to answer, it’s advisable to move on to other questions to maximize the opportunity to answer as many questions as possible.
– Before the test day, make sure all required documents are complete.

What is the difference between the SAT test and YÖS (Foreign Student Exam)?

– Language of the test: The SAT is an international test in English, whereas YÖS is a local test in Turkish.
– Number of questions: The SAT test consists of 155 questions, while YÖS contains between 80 to 100 questions.
– Test content: The SAT covers a wide range of subjects, including English language and mathematics, while YÖS is primarily focused on mathematics.
– Test duration: The SAT test can last up to 3 hours, while YÖS takes 100 minutes.

If you wish to continue your studies in Turkey and want assistance every step of the way, including help with university admissions and choosing the right major, our team at Alemni Shokran is here to assist you. 

We offer guidance and support to help you achieve your goals.