USAT Paper Pattern 2026
USAT Part I: 75 MCQs in 100 minutes — Part II: essays in 40 minutes
The regular USAT structure separates the test into a 75-question Part I and a writing-based Part II. Part I combines 20 Verbal, 25 Quantitative and 30 category-specific academic MCQs. Part II uses argumentative and narrative essay writing.
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- Part I
- 75 MCQs
- Part I time
- 100 minutes
- Part II time
- 40 minutes
- Essays
- Argument + Narrative
Guide 01
Part I question distribution
| Section | Questions | Share of Part I |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | 20 | Common to all categories |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 25 | Common to all categories |
| Academic | 30 | Depends on USAT-M, CS, E, A, COM or GS |
| Total | 75 | 100 minutes |
Guide 02
Part II writing structure
| Writing task | Marks | Preparation focus |
|---|---|---|
| Argumentative essay | 15 | Position, reasons, examples, paragraph logic and conclusion. |
| Narrative essay | 10 | Clear event sequence, conflict/turning point, detail and reflection. |
| Combined Part II | 25 | Complete both tasks within the 40-minute writing period. |
Guide 03
What this pattern means for preparation
- Do not prepare only reasoning: 30 of the 75 Part I questions are category-specific academics.
- Do not prepare only academic subjects: 45 Part I questions are common Verbal + Quantitative reasoning.
- Practise both argumentative and narrative writing before Part II.
- Use category-specific 75-question mocks to practise switching between all Part I sections.
- Check current HEC/ETC instructions for your actual test sitting before test day.
Sources, review and corrections
This guide separates official HEC/ETC information from SCHOLIX-created learning material and student/community recalls. Official dates, eligibility and final instructions should always be verified through HEC/ETC.
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