The SAT’s digital format is relatively new to the standardized testing landscape, but it still serves as a critical component of college admissions at many institutions.
Students and parents alike often have questions about the digital SAT such as how the exam is scored, and how much time students have to complete the test. Today, we’re exploring some of the most frequently asked questions about the digital SAT.
Do Colleges Accept the Digital SAT?
The short answer is yes, colleges do accept the digital SAT.
The longer answer is the function of the SAT remains the same despite the format changes. Many schools remain test-optional, but test-optional schools will consider digital SAT scores as part of the application process, and strong scores boost a student’s odds of admission. With more schools reinstating test-required policies, SAT scores will become increasingly important for college admissions, and the digital SAT is the default format for the test.
Paper versions of the SAT will continue to be available for students who require accommodation.
Can You Go Back to Questions on the Digital SAT?
Yes, you can go back to questions on the digital SAT as long as there is time remaining in the appropriate module. Once time runs out, you will no longer be able to review your previous questions.
The Math section and the Reading and Writing section are each divided into two modules. Within each module, your child can preview upcoming questions, return to previous questions, and adjust their answers until their time runs out.
Students have 32 minutes to complete each Reading and Writing module and 35 minutes for each Math module.
Does Everyone Get the Same Questions on the Digital SAT?
The digital SAT tests all students on the same concepts, but the order and wording of questions may vary between each exam.
The digital SAT’s adaptive design format adjusts the second module of each section based on your child’s performance in the first module. This allows the test to determine student performance in less time and using fewer questions, but it also means that test-takers will see different questions even on the same test day.
Does the Digital SAT Penalize You for Wrong Answers?
Scores are calculated based on the number of questions your child answers correctly. There is no deduction or penalty for wrong answers, so it’s in your child’s best interest to respond to as many questions as possible. Even if they don’t know the correct answer, guessing gives them a better chance of earning points than skipping the question altogether.
Does the Digital SAT Get Harder as You Go?
Yes—and no.
On the Reading and Writing modules, questions are grouped first by question type. For example, all questions asking about words in context appear at the beginning of the module. Within each question type, questions are ordered from easiest to hardest.
On the Math modules, questions appear in order of difficulty. The questions at the end of the module are harder than the questions at the beginning of the module.
The modules themselves also differ in overall difficulty. For all students, the first module of each section offers a mix of easy, medium, and hard questions. Performance on this first baseline module determines whether the student’s second module will be easier or harder than the first.
How Many Times Can You Take the Digital SAT?
The College Board recommends taking the exam at least twice. However, there is technically no limit to the number of times your child can take the digital SAT before they finalize their scores.
Your child has until fall of their senior year to finalize their scores, but they can always do it before then. In fact, students who only plan to take the SAT once often take their exam in their junior year. This will give them a solid foundation of the materials covered while also allowing them time to retake the exam if they don’t score as high as they hoped.
Your child may benefit from taking versions of the PSAT™ 10 or PSAT/NMSQT®, as both can offer more insight into what to expect on the digital SAT.
Is There a Downside to Taking the SAT Multiple Times?
Some schools require students to disclose scores on all of the standardized tests they have completed. Others may utilize “superscoring,” in which they combine a student’s highest scores on the Math section and the Reading and Writing section for the best possible cumulative total. However, many colleges allow applicants to submit only their highest scores.
In general, there are very few disadvantages to taking the SAT multiple times. If your child is unhappy with their initial scores, retaking the exam can help them reach their goals.
Do You Have to Bring Your Own Computer for the Digital SAT?
During registration, your child must indicate whether they plan to take the digital SAT on a personal computer, a school-issued computer, or a device loaned to them by the College Board. Your child will have the option to request a device during this process. Through the lending program, College Board will send devices directly to your child’s testing center.
A teacher, counselor, or school administrator may need to verify your student’s eligibility to receive a device on loan. Your child must register for the exam at least one month prior to their testing date if they plan to borrow a device from the College Board. They must also arrive about 30 minutes early on test day to allow ample time to retrieve their device.
Can I Bring My Own Calculator to the Digital SAT?
Your child may bring their own calculator for the Math section of the digital SAT, and most scientific and graphing calculators are allowed. If your child is unsure whether or not their specific device is acceptable, they can check the official College Board website for a complete list of models.
The Bluebook™ app includes a built-in calculator your child can access to answer questions on the Math section.
No matter which calculator your child chooses, they should spend some time working on practice problems with their chosen device so they know exactly how it works on test day.
SAT Test Prep at C2 Can Help Your Child Excel
At C2, we offer world-class digital SAT prep courses with industry-leading tutors. From personalized, small-group sessions to summer boot camp programs, your child will gain exposure to testing materials, exam formats, and time constraints to help them feel confident on test day.
Request more information today to get your child on the path to success!
