New SAT test raising student stress levels: Exam now includes 25-minute essay, more advanced algebra

DAILY MAIL STAFF

George Washington High School junior Davey Nelson was happy to seesomeone giving away free energy drinks the morning he was scheduledto take the Scholastic Aptitude Test.

The energy rush didn't last long.

"After the essay, you feel tired and drained," he said.

The SAT - the monster test that colleges have used for decades asa way to compare prospective students - has always been stressful.

But the stress level has risen for college-bound juniors sinceMarch when administrators added a 25-minute essay and advancedalgebra questions. On the essay, students are asked to take aposition and develop a well-stated argument.

The new …