Digital SAT test day: what to expect and what to bring
Test day goes smoother when nothing about it is a surprise. Here's what to bring, what to expect from the digital format, and how to keep your head during the two-module sections. Always check the College Board's current test-day rules before you go.
The short version
•Set up Bluebook on your device before test day; bring a charger.
•Bring your admission ticket, an acceptable photo ID, and a snack.
•An approved calculator is allowed even though Desmos is built in.
•Pace each module; answer everything — there's no wrong-answer penalty.
What to bring
Bring your device with the Bluebook app installed and set up in advance, your admission ticket, an acceptable photo ID, and a charger. You can bring an approved calculator even though Desmos is built in, plus pencils for scratch work and a snack for the break.
Complete Bluebook's exam setup before test day so you're not troubleshooting in the room.
Managing the modules
Each section has two timed modules, and you can't return to a module once it ends — so pace yourself within each one and don't leave questions blank (there's no wrong-answer penalty). Flag and skip a hard question, then come back within the same module if time allows.
Use the break between sections to reset. If you've practiced in the real format, the rhythm will already feel familiar.
Frequently asked
What do I need to bring to the digital SAT?
Your device with Bluebook installed and set up, a charger, your admission ticket, an acceptable photo ID, and optionally an approved calculator, pencils for scratch work, and a snack for the break. Check the College Board for the current acceptable-items list.
Can I go back to questions on the digital SAT?
You can move freely within a module while its timer runs, but you can't return to a module once it ends. So pace yourself within each module and answer every question.
What should I do the night before the SAT?
Confirm Bluebook is set up and your device is charged, gather your ticket and ID, do a light review at most, and get a full night's sleep — cramming the night before tends to hurt more than help.