Navigating GAT and SAAT Exams: Key Insights for Students in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, getting into university can be tough due to exams like the General Aptitude Test (GAT) and Scholastic Aptitude Admission Test (SAAT). These tests are more than just challenges—they're crucial for getting into top universities across the country. Let's explore the formats and subjects covered to help you get into your dream university!

General Aptitude Test (GAT) - Qudurat

The General Aptitude Test (GAT) assesses students' cognitive abilities through a structured format:

• Format: GAT consists of multiple-choice questions divided into 2 sections: a Quantitative (Math) and a Verbal (English) section.

Subjects Tested:

• Quantitative Reasoning: covers arithmetic, algebraic, geometric, analytical, and statistical questions.
• Verbal Reasoning: includes sentence completion, verbal analogy, contextual error, and reading comprehension.

Attempts: Candidates may attempt the GAT up to five times:

• A: 3 paper-based, 2 computerized
• B: 2 paper-based, 3 computerized
• C: 1 paper-based, 4 computerized

Paper-Based Test:

• Contains 5 sections with 120 questions, including experimental questions for research purposes that do not affect scores.
• Registrations are biannual, once per term, with grades released approximately one month after the test.

Computerized Test:

• Consists of 4 sections with 96 questions.
• Registration is year-round, requiring booking at least 3 days prior to the exam.
• Grades are typically released within two days to two weeks after the test.
• Note: The “odd one out” section from verbal reasoning has been removed from the computerized test.

Scientific vs. Artistic Streams:

• Scientific: Scientific stream students take an exam where quantitative and verbal sections are equally weighted.
• Artistic: Artistic stream students face an exam that places a stronger emphasis on verbal skills (70%) with a reduced focus on quantitative topics (30%), omitting algebra from testing.

Additional Information:

• Once a section's time expires in the paper-based test, reviewing or revisiting questions is not permitted. Similarly, time constraints prevent returning to unanswered questions in the computerized format.

Scholastic Aptitude Admission Test (SAAT) - Tahsili

It is conducted annually at the end of the academic year for secondary school students (usually grade 12).

Subjects Tested:

• The Tahsili exam typically covers core subjects such as mathematics and sciences (physics, chemistry, biology).

Structure:

• 110 multiple-choice questions divided into 5 sections
• Each section contains 22 questions drawn from all four subjects tested
• Each section is allotted 25 minutes so the total testing time is 125 minutes

The importance of GAT and SAAT

Several prominent universities in Saudi Arabia consider the GAT and SAAT as pivotal for admission and scholarships. King Saud University and King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah are two examples. They consider these tests when admitting students and awarding scholarships to those who do well. Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, the largest women's university globally, also uses these tests to decide who gets admitted and who receives scholarships. These universities understand how important these tests are in finding talented students and helping them succeed in higher education.

Conclusion

In summary, the GAT and SAAT exams serve as critical components of the university admissions process in Saudi Arabia. Through thorough understanding of their structures and dedicated preparation across the tested subjects, students can significantly enhance their chances of admission to their desired institutions. Whether pursuing scientific or artistic disciplines, meticulous preparation and strategic approach are essential for success in these pivotal standardized tests.