The Digital SAT is a computer-based version of the SAT, which is a standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. It has the same content and structure as the SAT paper but has some features and benefits that are unique to the digital format. It was first offered in March 2023 and is now the only version of the SAT available.
Save these key items:
The digital SAT is administered on a computer with the Bluebook app.
The app has a built-in timer and calculator.
Students can mark questions for review and return to them later.
The test is adaptive, meaning the difficulty of the questions changes based on your performance.
You can get your scores online within 2-3 weeks of taking the test.
If you are planning to take the SAT, it is important to familiarize yourself with the digital format. You can do this by taking practice tests on a computer and learning about the Bluebook app’s features.
Get to know the key differences between the digital SAT and the paper-based SAT:
Feature
Digital SAT
Paper-based SAT
Length
2 hours and 14 minutes
3 hours
Section breakdown
Reading and Writing, Math
Reading, Writing and Language, Math
Time per question
1 minute
1.5 minutes
Adaptive technology
Yes
No
Ability to mark and skip questions
Yes
No
The digital SAT is a new way of taking the SAT that offers advantages over the paper SAT. However, it is not a different test and still requires the same skills and strategies to do well.
1. How to Prepare for the Digital SAT
What is it?
A computer-adaptive test that replaces the paper SAT
Offers the same content and scoring as the paper SAT
First offered in March 2023
What’s different?
Students mark their answers on a touchscreen computer
Can’t skip or go back to questions
Have 65 minutes for Reading and Writing and Language, and 35 minutes for Math
How to prepare?
Take practice tests
Learn the format and timing
Familiarize yourself with the onscreen tools
2. Pros and Cons of the Digital SAT
There are both pros and cons to taking the digital SAT. Some of the pros include:
The test is shorter, which can be less stressful for some students.
The digital format allows you to use tools that can help you focus on the questions and passages, such as highlighting and zooming in.
You can track your time, which can help you manage your pacing.
You can get your scores faster, usually within two to three weeks after the test day.
Some of the cons of the digital SAT include:
There is a risk of technical problems, such as network connectivity issues or computer glitches.
Not all students have access to a computer or internet, which may make it difficult for them to take the test.
The adaptive format of the test can make it difficult to predict your score.
3. Experience and Advice from Those Who Have Taken the Digital SAT
Here are some thoughts from students who have taken the digital SAT:
“I found the digital SAT less stressful than the paper SAT. I liked using the tools and features to help me focus on the questions.” – Danielle, the student who took the digital SAT in the US.
“The digital SAT was easier for me than the paper SAT, especially the math section. I found the calculator very helpful.” – Omar, the student who took the digital SAT in Egypt.
“I recommend that students take practice tests on the Bluebook app to get used to the format and the tools.” – Lisa, college admission counselor.
“Please bring your personal laptop to the exam room and check it carefully because the Blue Book app will have its own regulations on exam devices. Most of you have difficulty with the Math Module 2 section. Strange vocabulary also causes a lot of confusion in the exam sections.” – Phan Nguyễn Quỳnh Nhi, TAS student, SAT paper 1400+ & digital 1480
Parting words
The digital SAT is a new way of taking the SAT that offers advantages over the paper SAT. However, it is not a different test and still requires the same skills and strategies to do well. Therefore, the best way to prepare for the digital SAT is to practice using the tools and features available on the computer.
Stay calm and focused. The digital SAT can be a daunting experience, but it’s important to stay calm and focused. Take deep breaths and remind yourself that you’ve prepared for this.
Use the tools and features available to you. The computer-adaptive format of the digital SAT allows you to skip and come back to questions, so don’t be afraid to use this feature. You can also use the highlighter, pencil, and eraser to help you stay organized.
Pace yourself. The digital SAT is a timed test, so it’s important to pace yourself. Don’t spend too much time on any one question. If you’re stuck, skip it and come back to it later.
Review your answers. Once you’ve finished the test, take a few minutes to review your answers. Make sure you’ve answered all of the questions and that you’re confident in your answers.
