The last paper and pen version of the SAT was held on December 2nd, 2023.
Though international students have taken the digital version of the exam since March 2023, the Digital SAT is now the new normal for U.S. based students.
But how is the Digital SAT different from previous iterations of the exam?
1. The Digital SAT is significantly shorter
2. The Digital SAT is a fully virtual, multistage adaptive exam
The test will also adjust its difficulty in response to a student’s performance level. Each test section (Reading and Writing, Math) is split into two modules. Questions in the second module will vary depending on the student’s performance in the first module.
3. The Reading and Writing section of the exam introduces new question types
4. The Math section of the exam allows for a wider scope of answers
Despite all of these changes, the Bluebook platform provides a variety of resources to help students succeed on the test.
KEY TIP
Students are able to take the Digital SAT on their personal computers; however, if they do not have a suitable device on which to complete the exam, they may request one from the College Board. Another crucial consideration is that students will not lose time from connectivity or device issues. Bluebook automatically saves students’ progress and allows them to continue taking the test without disruption — even after losing connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Digital SAT?
The Digital SAT is a shorter, adaptive version of the SAT that will be offered in place of a paper-and-pencil exam. The Digital SAT was first administered to international students in March 2023, while students in the United States will begin taking the Digital SAT in the spring of 2024. Additionally, all PSAT tests, including the PSAT 8/9, PSAT 10, and PSAT/NMSQT, will be administered digitally beginning in the fall of 2023.
How is the Digital SAT different from the old SAT?
There are three key differences:
- The digital SAT will be taken completely on a computer.
- The digital SAT uses multistage adaptive testing, meaning that the test will offer different sets of questions in response to a student’s performance level. Each test section (Reading and Writing, Math) will be divided into two modules. Questions in the second module will vary depending on the student’s performance in the first module.
- The digital SAT is significantly shorter than the old SAT
| Digital SAT | Old SAT |
| 2 hours and 14 minutes | 3 hours and 15 minutes |
How can I study for the Digital SAT?
The content on the digital SAT remains similar to the content on the Paper SAT. For a more detailed look at the new test, click here
However, you should make sure to familiarize yourself with the digital format. There are four digital practice tests available on the College Board website for you to practice.
The College Board has developed Bluebook, a testing app that provides a secure platform to take both official and practice tests. Learn more about Bluebook here.
I don’t have a device to take the Digital SAT. What should I do?
If you don’t have a suitable device to take the SAT, you may request to borrow one from the CollegeBoard and one will be provided.
