How Students Drink Coffee During SAT Breaks in 2011

When over 30 students from Harbin No.3 High School’s international studies center sat the SAT alongside tens of thousands worldwide on December 10, 2011, they weren’t just facing a grueling four-hour test—they had to manage their energy between sections. The December SAT was a globally synchronized event, and for these students, one key question loomed: what do you do during the break to reset for the next part?

During the 15-minute break after the math section, most students drank coffee or Red Bull and snacked lightly. That short window—mandated by the College Board—was their only chance to eat, move around, and recharge before continuing.

What Was the 2011 SAT Like for These Students?

The SAT on December 10, 2011, started promptly at 8:30 a.m. For these students, unlike China’s gaokao, two extra items were required: a passport and a calculator. The test was administered entirely in English, with proctors reading instructions aloud.

The first section was Critical Reading (labeled here as “English”), a 45-minute, 75-question multiple-choice block. Students were given a five-minute warning before each section ended and had to stop writing immediately when time was called. Math followed, a 60-minute, 60-question section starting at 9:17 a.m.

What Happened During the 15-Minute Break?

After the math section, students were led to a designated rest area. This 15-minute break was not optional—it was built into the SAT’s official schedule. Here, students could leave the testing room, walk around, and eat or drink. Many chose coffee or energy drinks like Red Bull, and some had light snacks. This break was a College Board requirement, designed to let students decompress before the next sections.

According to on-site reports, most students spent the time drinking coffee or Red Bull. While some chatted quietly, the majority used the time to refocus with caffeine and a bite to eat. This was their only opportunity to eat anything until the test concluded.

How Was the Rest of the Test Structured?

Test-takers didn’t receive their test booklets one section at a time. All four main sections—Critical Reading, Math, Writing, and Science (similar to China’s science-focused section)—were handed out before the first section began. But once the test started, students could only work on the section being timed. They couldn’t go back to previous sections, even though the booklets remained in front of them.

After math, students returned to the exam room and opened the third section: Reading. Though they had just had a break, many students looked more tense. The reading section reportedly included a lot of U.S. and world history content, which added to the difficulty. The fourth section was Science, which some found slightly easier than expected. The test concluded with a writing section at 12:25 p.m.

What Did Students Think of the Math Section?

One repeat test-taker, Sun Lingqi, said math was easier compared to China’s gaokao—all multiple choice and less demanding. He pointed out that the hardest parts were Reading (with historical references) and Writing (which had higher expectations). The principal of the international center noted that graduates from the previous two years had all gained admission to U.S. universities ranked in the top 100.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did students really drink coffee during SAT breaks in 2011?

Yes, many students drank coffee or Red Bull during the 15-minute break after the math section. It was a common way to recharge before continuing with the test.

How long was the SAT break in 2011?

The scheduled break was 15 minutes, and it happened after the math section. This was the only official break period during the exam.

What could students do during the SAT break?

Students could leave the testing room, walk around, drink coffee or energy drinks, eat snacks, and talk quietly. The break was designed for rest and refocusing.

Was the SAT in 2011 all multiple choice?

Mostly. The Math section was all multiple choice, while the Writing section included an essay. The Reading section was also multiple choice.

Could students go back to previous SAT sections once time was up?

No. Even though all test booklets were given upfront, students could only work on the current timed section and could not revisit earlier ones.

What items were required for the 2011 SAT?

Students needed a passport (not just an ID), a calculator, and other standard items. The passport was specifically required for identity verification.

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