SAT Subject Test Practice
World History
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Next Tests:
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Introduction
Passionate about world history? Taking the World History Subject Test allows you to demonstrate your interest in the subject and can differentiate you in the college admission process. The test covers all historical themes (political and diplomatic, intellectual and cultural, social and economic) from ancient times to the present, and is an excellent opportunity to showcase your knowledge and achievement in world history.
Test Basics
Scoring, Timing, Number of Questions
| Points | Minutes | Questions |
|---|---|---|
| 200–800 | 60 | 95 |
| Multiple Choice |
Important Notes
Offered in December and June
Getting Ready for the Test
Anticipated Skills- Familiarity with terminology, cause-and-effect relationships, geography and other data necessary for understanding major historical developments
- A grasp of concepts essential to historical analysis
- An ability to use historical knowledge in interpreting data in maps, graphs, charts or cartoons
- One-year comprehensive course in world history at the college-preparatory level
- Independent reading or study of historical topics covered on the test
- Review of world history textbooks, with careful attention to areas of weakness and trends within major periods (timelines are useful tools for doing this)
Free Downloadable Practice Resources
- The Getting Ready for the SAT Subject Tests™ practice booklet contains information on all 20 SAT Subject Tests, official sample questions, test-taking tips and approaches and more.
- Answer Explanations to the World History Practice Questions from the booklet.
Additional Things to Know
The World History Subject Test uses the chronological designations B.C.E. (before Common Era) and C.E. (Common Era). These labels correspond to B.C. (before Christ) and A.D. (anno Domini), which are used in some world history textbooks.
Questions on the World History Subject Test may be presented as separate items or in sets based on quotes, maps, pictures, graphs or tables.
Please note that this test reflects what is commonly taught in high school. Due to differences in high school classes, it’s likely that most students will find questions on topics they’re not familiar with. This is nothing to worry about. You do not have to get every question correct to receive the highest score (800) for the test. Many students do well despite not having studied every topic covered.
