SAT vs JEE: Scores, Syllabus, Exam Dates

Did you know in 2023, 1.9 million students took the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) while 1.1 million appeared for the Joint Entrance Examination or JEE (Mains)? While it is evident that both these examinations are popular among aspirants, how about a detailed SAT vs JEE comparison? 

Here’s looking at the key differences between the two. 

SAT vs JEE- Highlights 

Here are some SAT vs JEE highlights that you should be aware of: 

Source: Official websites

SAT vs JEE- Structure and Format 

When it comes to a JEE vs SAT comparison, looking at the structure and format of both the examinations is vital. Here is a closer glimpse of the same. 

SAT

JEE

Paper-1 (BE/BTech)- 

Paper 2A (BArch)- 

Paper 2B (BPlanning)- 

If you wish to do a SAT vs JEE Advanced comparison, you should know that the latter contains 54 questions in total (18 each for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics). It is divided into two papers of 3 hours each, each with 54 questions as per the division given above and the same three sections. 

SAT vs JEE: Content 

JEE

Paper 1- 

• Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry- Objective-type MCQs (multiple-choice questions) and questions where the answer is a numerical value. Equal weightage is given to all three sections. 

Paper 2A- 

• Part I- Mathematics- Objective-type MCQs and questions where the answer will be a numerical value
• Part II-Aptitude Test- Objective-type MCQs
• Part III- Drawing- Questions for evaluating drawing skills 

Paper 2B-

• Part I- Mathematics- Objective-type MCQs and questions where the answer will be a numerical value
• Part II- Aptitude Test- Objective-type MCQs
• Part III- Planning- Objective-type MCQs

SAT

• Reading and Writing- Short-reading passages, ranging from 25 to 150 words, with MCQs with two modules and four domains- Standard English Conventions, Expression of Ideas, Information and Ideas, and Craft and Structure. Passages are taken from literature, humanities, history/social sciences, and science. 
• Math- 

1. Algebra (linear equations, linear functions, linear inequalities, etc.)
2. Advanced Math (nonlinear equations and functions, equivalent expressions, systems of equations)
3. Problem-solving and Data Analysis (one-variable and two-variable data, ratios, rates, units, and proportional relationships, percentages, inference from margin of error and sample statistics, conditional probability and probability, evaluation of statistical claims, experiments, and observational studies)
4. Geometry and Trigonometry (Lines, angles, and triangles, area and volume formulas, circles, right triangles, and trigonometry

SAT vs JEE: Requirements 

What does the SAT require in comparison to the JEE? Let’s find out: 

SAT- 

• No specific requirements
• Only a photo has to be uploaded as per the requirements listed on the official website. 

JEE-

• No age criteria
• Candidates should have passed their Class XII qualifying examination.
• The year of appearance matters, i.e., those clearing the examination in the years 2022 and 2023 or those appearing for the same in 2024 have eligibility to sit for the JEE this year.

SAT vs JEE: Registration 

The SAT registration process takes only 30 minutes on average with the following steps: 

• View testing center locations and choose the suitable one. 
• Select the chosen testing date.
• Create an account and then sign into the College Board account.
• Complete online registration by uploading a photograph and finalizing the test date and center information. 

The JEE registration procedure involves the following:

• Register by creating a DigiLocker account via the NAD portal or by creating an Academic Bank of Credits ID. You can also log in with Indian/non-Indian passport numbers or PAN/Aadhar enrollment numbers. 
• Choose the option for examination center authentication, i.e., via Aadhar/valid Government ID with a photograph (candidates should reach the examination center one hour before the test to get their biometrics recorded in this case).
• Provide personal details while filling out the online application form and upload the necessary documents, including the scanned photograph, signature, and PwD certificate or UDID Card, if applicable. Submit the form and keep the application number for future reference. 
• You can then pay the examination fee online via credit card/debit card/net banking/UPI. 
• Keep a copy of the confirmation page of the application form. 

SAT vs JEE: Exam Dates 

The examination dates for the SAT in 2024 are the following: 

• 9th March, 2024 (registration deadline- 23rd February, 2024)
• 4th May, 2024 (registration deadline- 19th April, 2024)
• 1st June, 2024 (registration deadline- 16th May, 2024)
• 24th August, 2024 (registration deadline to be announced)
• 5th October, 2024 (registration deadline to be announced)
• 2nd November, 2024 (registration deadline to be announced)
• 7th December, 2024 (registration deadline to be announced)

Below are the anticipated August–December 2024 SAT test dates:

• August 24, 2024
• October 5, 2024
• November 2, 2024
• December 7, 2024

In 2024, the JEE Main Paper 1 was conducted on the 27th, 29th, 30th and 31st of January and the 1st of February, 2024. The Papers 2A and 2B were held on the 24th of January, 2024. The last date for registration for session two was 4th March, 2024. The examination will take place between the 4th and 15th of April, 2024. 

SAT vs JEE: Scoring Pattern 

The scoring pattern of the JEE is the following: 

SAT or JEE: Which Test to Take 

Let’s see which test is the better choice for you- SAT or JEE? If you wish to study engineering at prestigious institutions in India, you should opt for the JEE. However, if you wish to apply for undergraduate studies in various disciplines in the US and Canada along with other countries like Australia, the UK, and others, you may consider applying for the SAT. 

Conclusion 

Based on the SAT vs JEE comparison, it can be stated that these are both different examinations. The latter measures your knowledge and skills in specific disciplines suited to engineering, while the former measures reading and writing and Math skills which are suited for varying college programs abroad. Before deciding which test to take, do a detailed study of the comparison in this article and decide per your future academic and professional interests.
Read More:

• SAT Exam Eligibility
• SAT Exam Resources