Table of Contents
- What kind of tests are they?
- How do I study for them?
- How does scoring work?
- How are the tests formatted?
- Which devices can I use on the tests?
- How long do I get to take the tests?
- When can I take the tests?
- How much do the tests cost?
- Which test should I take?
What kind of tests are they?
You’ve probably heard of the SAT since it is used by most colleges and universities for the admissions process. Created and administered by the College Board, the SAT is a digital multiple-choice test completed in person at a testing center. (Paper-based SAT is only available in US at the moment.)
On the other hand, the Bocconi Admission Test is an online test designed for students applying to Bocconi for programs in Economics, Management, Finance, Law, and Social Sciences.
How do I study for them?
How to ace the SAT
If it’s your first time taking the SAT, expect to spend 6–20 hours preparing. Take a full-length practice test to get a feel for the test. Give yourself time to review the concepts you’re struggling with so you’re ready for test day.
If you’re unsure how to study independently, the 700+Club covers your bases with extensive SAT prep to get top scores.
Pro tip: Check out our blog for tips and tricks on doing your best on the SATs.
Prepping for the Bocconi test
The first thing on your list is to familiarize yourself with the test format and learn everything about the exam. The structure, scoring, and timing differ from the SAT, so you’ll want to be fully prepared.
Even though there aren’t books or courses to prepare for this exam, many of the same SAT study topics are on the Bocconi test. You’ll also find that the Numerical Reasoning questions are more manageable than those on the SAT math section.
The Bocconi test’s inclusion of logarithms in the math section makes it unique. So brush up, take the practice test, and try your hand at the simulation test.
How does scoring work?
SAT scoring
- Scored on a 400 to 1600 scale
- Get a subscore for math, reading, writing, and language
- It’s better to make an educated guess than leave it blank
Bocconi Test scoring
- You get 1 point for each correct answer
- Any missing answers to questions will not be penalized
- Each wrong answer will be penalized by 0.2 points
How are the tests formatted?
The SAT consists of Reading, Writing, and Math, totaling 98 questions. Each section is divided and taken on its own. Most questions are multiple-choice, except some math questions where a response must be written.
- Reading and Writing: 44 questions
- Math: 58 questions
The Bocconi test consists of 50 multiple-choice questions divided into four subject areas. These are mixed up within the test, not separate.
- Logic: 15 questions
- Mathematics: 15 questions
- Reading comprehension: 13 questions
- Numerical reasoning: 7 questions
Which devices can I use on the tests?
BYOC: Bring your own calculator to the SAT
You’re allowed to use a calculator for part of the Math Test. Before test day, pop in fresh batteries and double-check the permitted list of calculators.
Only brain power for the Bocconi test
Unlike the SAT, you can’t use a calculator on this test.
How long do I have to take the tests?
Get your pencils sharpened because the SAT is long, clocking in at 134 minutes. The Bocconi Test is much shorter at only 75 minutes long.
When can I take the tests?
Registering for the SAT
Most students take the SAT during their junior or senior year of high school. Check out the test dates and deadlines to ensure you’re ready on testing day. Find SAT testing centers that offer the SAT in your country.
Pro tip: Leave time to retake the test if you need to raise your score before you apply to universities.
Registering for the Bocconi test
Easily book your testing slot online anytime based on the slots on the testing website. You also have the chance to get the best score by retaking the test up to three times for high school students applying for three-year/single-cycle master’s degrees in law. While university students applying for master’s degrees can take the test a maximum of twice.
Pro tip: Remember to take the test and get a score before submitting your application to Bocconi.
Planning is the name of the game before testing. Be mindful of your calendar because the SAT is offered only on specific dates throughout the year, whereas you have more flexibility with the Bocconi test. Whichever you choose, make sure you pencil it in on your agenda.
How much do the tests cost?
SAT test fees
The SAT costs $60. Other fees may apply if you sign up late, by phone, or change registration.
Bocconi test fees
The Bocconi test costs €60 each time you take it.
Which test should I take?
Your testing options in a nutshell
The SAT or Bocconi test? That’s the big question that has you doing mental gymnastics! Try taking both tests because you may do better on one or the other. You’ll be well versed in both tests with thorough SAT prep.
The Bocconi Admission Test is valid for Bocconi admission. So you’ll still need to take the SAT to apply to other universities. Why take the Bocconi test? It’s an excellent fallback if your SAT scores need to be higher for admission to Bocconi.
Summary
To wrap things up, start by choosing a test based on what you think is suitable for your needs based on your strengths and weaknesses is your best bet. Each test has pros like the SAT can be used to apply to other schools, while that’s not the case for the Bocconi test. On the other hand, the Bocconi test is much shorter to complete than the SAT. Trying out each test can help you see which test you perform best since scoring and format vary for both exams. Look at our group and individual SAT courses if you’re getting ready for your SAT test. Or if you want personalized admissions consulting for Bocconi University. With 700+Club, you’ll get closer to your educational goals.
