The SAT exam got a digital transformation and now become a new standardized test format for college admissions in the US. It’s entirely taken on a computer, replacing the traditional paper and pencil version. Here’s what you need to know:
- Structure: It’s divided into two sections: Reading & Writing (combined) and Math. The total testing time is about 2 hours and 14 minutes.
- Shorter and Adaptive: Compared to the old format, it has fewer questions (98 vs. 154) and uses adaptive questioning. This means the difficulty of the questions adjusts based on your performance. Do well on the initial questions, and you’ll face tougher ones (worth more points) later.
- No penalty for guessing: There’s no downside to attempting an answer, so it’s always best to give one even if you’re unsure.
- Faster Scores: You’ll receive your results in days instead of weeks, allowing for quicker college application decisions.
Here’s a quick comparison of the old and new formats:
| Feature | Old SAT | Digital SAT |
| Format | Paper and Pencil | Computer-based |
| Number of Questions | 154 | 98 |
| Question Difficulty | Fixed | Adaptive |
| Guessing Penality | YES | NO |
Digital SAT Exam Highlights
| Exam Name | SAT (Digital) |
| SAT full form | Scholastic Assessment Test |
| Official Website | https://www.collegeboard.org/ |
| SAT Exam Duration | 2 hours 14 minutes |
| Most popular for | Undergraduate courses in the US and Canada |
| Conducted by | College Board |
| Mode of Exam | Online |
| SAT Fee for Indian Students | $60 + $43 +$18.54 = ₹10,075 (approx.) |
| Score Range | on a 1600 scale point |
| SAT Contact Info | The College Board National Office 250 Vesey Street New York, NY 10281 Phone: 212-713-8000 |
Some Key Features :
- Students belonging to the age group of 17 to 19 appear for the SAT exam in maximum numbers.
- For USA students, the Digital SAT exam is applicable by 2024 onwards, that is, March, May, June, August, October, November, and December but the number of attempts is limited to 5.
- The knowledge skill of students is tested on the basis of the Critical Reading section, Mathematics section and Writing section.
- Earlier The SAT questionnaire was designed for the time duration of 3-4 hours but now Digital SAT is of 2 hours 14 minutes.
- The range of scores varies from 200 to 800 on each of the 2 sections , i.e., you can get a minimum score of 600 and maximum score of 1600.
Explore the SAT Course Book a Free Trial Session
Check the SAT Preparation Online Courses
| Advanced Level | Intermediate Level | Intermediate Level | Intermediate Level |
| Digital SAT Prep Online – 42 hrs | Digital SAT Prep Online – 60 hrs | Digital SAT Prep Online – 72 hrs | Digital SAT Prep Online – 90 hrs |
| Rs. 58,174 | Rs. 73,614 | Rs. 90,134 | Rs. 1,06,654 |
| USD 696.67 | USD 881.56 | USD 1,079.34 | USD 1277.16 |
| Digital SAT (42 Hrs) Details: | Digital SAT (60 Hrs) Details: | Digital SAT (72 Hrs) Details: | Digital SAT (90 Hrs) Details: |
| 1. Live & Interactive Real Time Sessions 2. Best English and Maths Experts For Digital SAT 3. High Score Course Modules 4. Session Wise Assignments 5. 3 Types of Tests – Online, Offline and Hard Copy 6. Practice of 3600 questions during the entire course 7. Comprehansive Study Material – Module Wise 8. Regular Doubt Removal Sessions 9. Rapid Reading Excercises 10. Suggested Reading Sessions 11. Special Tips and Techniques to get a perfect score |
1. Live & Interactive Real Time Sessions 2. Best English and Maths Experts For Digital SAT 3. High Score Course Modules 4. Session Wise Assignments 5. 3 Types of Tests – Online, Offline and Hard Copy 6. Practice of 3600 questions during the entire course 7. Comprehansive Study Material – Module Wise 8. Regular Doubt Removal Sessions |
1. Live & Interactive Real Time Sessions 2. Best English & Maths Experts For SAT 1 3. Scientifically Designed Course Modules 4. Session Wise Assignments 5. 3 Types of Tests – Online, Offline and Hard Copy 6. Practice of 3600 questions during the entire course 7. Comprehansive Study Material – Module Wise 8. Regular Doubt Removal Sessions 9. Rapid Reading Excercises 10. Suggested Reading Sessions 11. Special Tips and Techniques to get a perfect score |
1. Live & Interactive Real Time Sessions 2. Best English & Mathematics Experts For Digital SAT 3. Scientifically Designed Course Modules 4. Session Wise Assignments 5. 3 Types of Tests – Online, Offline and Hard Copy 6. Practice of 3600 questions during the entire course 7. Comprehansive Study Material – Module Wise 8. Regular Doubt Removal Sessions 9. Rapid Reading Excercises 10. Suggested Reading Sessions 11. Special Tips and Techniques to get a perfect score |
SAT Private Tutoring
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SAT Tutoring / Course |
Hours Package |
|
Feature |
Description |
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Personalized Instruction |
Tailored lessons to address the specific strengths and weaknesses of the individual student. |
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Customized Curriculum |
Development of a study plan focused on the student’s goals and target scores. |
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Flexible Scheduling |
Ability to schedule sessions at convenient times for the student. |
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Individual Attention |
Dedicated attention from the tutor to address the student’s questions and concerns. |
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Detailed Feedback |
Comprehensive feedback on practice tests and assignments to track progress. |
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Targeted Strategies |
Instruction on specific test-taking strategies and techniques to improve scores. |
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Adaptive Approach |
Adjustments in teaching methods based on the student’s learning style and pace. |
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Access to Resources |
Provision of study materials, practice tests, and supplementary resources. |
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Continuous Support |
Availability of support between sessions via email or messaging for additional assistance. |
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Performance Tracking |
Regular assessment of progress and performance to identify areas for improvement. |
|
Course Details |
Digital SAT Live Sessions:
Ideal Time for Digital SAT Preparation:
Recommendation Window
1. Junior Year (11th Grade):
- Many students opt for their 1st attempt of digital SAT exam during their junior year. This allows them to have adequate time to re-appear the exam if needed before college application deadlines.
- You can opt for SAT exam in the spring of your junior year, around March, May, or June.This timing gives you the opportunity to use your summer break for further preparation or to retake the exam if necessary .
2. Senior Year (12th Grade):
- Students may re-appear in grade 12th which may lead to improve their score or If students didn’t take the SAT exam their junior year.
- Make sure to check college application deadlines to ensure you have your scores sent in on time.
Other Factors to Consider:
- Your Class Schedule: If you have a busy spring with AP exams or other commitments, you might opt for the fall of your junior year instead.
- Your Overall Test Scores: If you’re already scoring well on practice tests, you might feel comfortable taking the SAT earlier (like spring of your sophomore year).
- College Application Deadlines: Be sure to factor in application deadlines for the colleges you’re interested in. Taking the SAT early enough ensures your score report arrives on time.
Additional Tips:
- Talk to your school counselor: They can provide personalized advice based on your academic standing and goals.
- Consider taking practice tests: This will help you gauge your readiness and identify areas that need improvement.
- The SAT is offered multiple times a year: You have flexibility in choosing a test date that works for you.
Digital SAT Exam Structure
Digital SAT English Section Exam Structure (Reading and Writing)
The Reading and Writing section contains 2 modules. There are 25 operational questions and 2 pretest questions in each module. The time duration for each module is 32 minutes. You will find the exam structure in detail in the table given below:
| DIGITAL SAT EXAM STRUCTURE | |
| Section | Reading and Writing |
| Test length | Module 1:25 operational questions and 2 pretest questions Module 2:25 operational questions and 2 pretest questions |
| Time per module | Module 1:32 minutes and Module 2:32 minutes |
| Number of questions | 54 questions |
| Total time | 64 minutes |
Digital SAT Mathematics Section Exam Structure
The Mathematics section contains 2 modules. There are 23 operational and 2 pretest questions in each module. The total time allotted for the Mathematics section is 70 minutes, with 35 minutes for each module. Now in the Digital SAT, the calculator has already been added to the SAT Exam Window so you can use the calculator any time during the Digital SAT Exam. You will find the exam structure in detail in the table given below:
| DIGITAL SAT EXAM STRUCTURE | |
| Section | Mathematics |
| Test length | Module 1: 20 operational questions and 2 pretest questions Module 2: 20 operational questions and 2 pretest questions |
| Time per module | Module 1: 35 minutes and Module 2: 35 minutes |
| Number of questions | 44 questions |
| Total time | 70 minutes |
Digital SAT Exam Dates 2024 (International Students):
| SAT Test Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration & Testing Changes Deadline |
| March 8, 2025 | February 21, 2025 | February 25, 2025 |
| May 3, 2025 | April 18, 2025 | April 22, 2025 |
| June 7, 2025 | May 22, 2025 | May 27, 2025 |
| August 23, 2025 | To Be Announced | To Be Announced |
| September 13, 2025 | To Be Announced | To Be Announced |
| October 4, 2025 | To Be Announced | To Be Announced |
| November 8, 2025 | To Be Announced | To Be Announced |
| December 6, 2025 | To Be Announced | To Be Announced |
Digital SAT Student Review
At TestprepKart we feel satisfied having worked closely with students and parents toward achieving a common objective of a Great SAT Score and Selection in a Good University. Here is what our students speak about SAT Coaching at TestprepKart.
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FAQS
Q. What is Digital SAT?
A. The Digital SAT is the completely revamped version of the traditional paper-and-pencil SAT college entrance exam. Launched in Spring 2024, it offers a more streamlined and tech-focused testing experience. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:
Test Format:
- Digital Delivery: You’ll take the SAT on a laptop or tablet, either your own device or one provided at the testing center.
- Shorter & Focused: The test duration shrinks from 3 hours to 2 hours. Reading passages are shorter with a focus on one question per passage.
- Adaptive Testing: The difficulty of the questions adjusts throughout the test based on your performance. This personalizes the experience and assesses your true abilities.
- Calculator Friendly: Unlike the old paper SAT, calculators are allowed for the entire math section on the Digital SAT.
Benefits of the Digital SAT:
- Potentially More Efficient: The shorter test and focused passages could make it more manageable for some students.
- Streamlined Experience: Taking the test digitally can feel more natural for tech-savvy students.
- Potentially Fairer: Adaptive testing ensures a more personalized experience that reflects your true abilities.
Overall, the digital SAT represents a significant shift in how the SAT is administered. It offers a more modern testing experience, but requires some adjustment from students used to the traditional paper format.
Q. Is PSAT and DSAT are different?
A. Yes, PSAT and DSAT are entirely different tests. Here’s a breakdown of their key differences:
| Feature | PSAT | DSAT (Digital SAT) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Practice test for College SAT | College admissions test |
| Content | Reading, Writing, Math (practice format) | Reading, Writing, Math (digital format) |
| Scoring | 320-1520 (not used for admissions) | 320-1520 (used for admissions) |
| Length | 2 hours and 45 minutes | 2 hours |
| Who Takes It | High school sophomores & juniors | High school juniors & seniors |
Q. Will college accepts score from the Digital SAT?
A. Yes, colleges will accept scores from the Digital SAT just like they did for the paper SAT. The College Board, which administers the SAT, made the transition to a fully digital format in Spring 2024. Colleges are aware of this change and will consider scores from the Digital SAT in the same way they considered scores from the paper SAT.
Here’s a breakdown of why colleges accept Digital SAT scores:
- Standardized Assessment: The College Board maintains the integrity and rigor of the testing process, ensuring scores from the Digital SAT are a reliable indicator of a student’s college readiness.
- Comparable Difficulty: The core content assessed on the Digital SAT remains the same, and the scoring system hasn’t changed. This allows colleges to compare scores from the Digital SAT with scores from previous versions of the test.
- Focus on Skills: Colleges use the SAT, regardless of format (digital or paper), to assess a student’s critical reading, writing, and quantitative reasoning skills, which are considered valuable for academic success in college.
Q. How much the digital SAT Cost?
A. The cost of the Digital SAT is the same as the traditional paper SAT, which is around $52 (as of March 18, 2024). This fee covers the cost of administering the test and includes basic score reporting to four colleges of your choice.
Here’s a breakdown of the Digital SAT cost:
- Registration Fee: $52 (This is the base fee for the test itself)
- Additional Score Reports: There might be additional fees if you want to send your scores to more than four colleges. Check the College Board website for the latest fees on additional score reports.
- Late Fees: Registering after the deadline may incur late fees. Be sure to register well before the deadline to avoid these extra charges.
- Fee Waivers: The College Board offers fee waivers for low-income students who meet eligibility criteria. Check their website for details on how to apply.
Q. What is the scoring system of the digital SAT exam?
A. The scoring system of the Digital SAT exam is identical to the traditional paper SAT: a 400-1600 point scale. Here’s a breakdown:
- Section Scores: The SAT is divided into two sections: Reading & Writing (combined) and Math. Each section is scored on a scale of 200-800 points.
- Total Score: Your total SAT score is the sum of your Reading & Writing section score and your Math section score. It can range from a minimum of 400 (200 in each section) to a perfect score of 1600 (800 in each section).
Q. What is time limit of the digital SAT exam?
A. The total testing time for the Digital SAT is 2 hours and 14 minutes. This is a shorter duration compared to the 3-hour format of the traditional paper SAT.
Q. Do i need to carry my own laptop and calculator for the exam?
A. Laptop:You don’t need to carry your own device rather than you may use device issued by school. You can use laptop or tablet which is campatible with College Board’s guidelines.They have a list on their website.
Calculator: You don’t need to bring your own calculator for the Digital SAT. A scientific calculator is accessible on the screen throughout the Math section. Even though a calculator is provided, it’s still recommended to be comfortable using the digital calculator interface during your practice sessions.
Q. Can I practice for the Digital SAT?
A. Absolutely! Practicing for the Digital SAT is essential to familiarize yourself with the format, content, and time constraints. Here are some excellent resources to help you prepare:
Official Resources:
- The College Board: The College Board, the official administrator of the SAT, offers a variety of resources for Digital SAT preparation, including:
- Official Digital SAT Practice Tests: These full-length practice tests simulate the actual testing experience and allow you to get comfortable with the digital interface, question types, and time limits.
- Student Guide: This comprehensive guide outlines the testing format, content areas, scoring system, and tips for preparing for the Digital SAT.
Q. Are there any special accommodations for students with disabilities for the Digital SAT?
A. Yes, the Digital SAT offers special accommodations for students with disabilities to ensure a fair and accessible testing experience. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Who Qualifies:
Students with documented disabilities that may hinder their performance on the standardized test can apply for accommodations. This could include students with:
- Visual impairments
- Hearing impairments
- Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, ADHD)
- Physical disabilities
- Psychological disorders
Types of Accommodations:
The College Board offers a variety of accommodations for the Digital SAT. Here are some common ones:
- Extended Time: You may be granted additional time to complete the test sections.
- Extra Breaks: You might be allowed more frequent or extended breaks during the test.
- Assistive Technology: Use of screen readers, text-to-speech software, or other approved assistive technologies can be permitted.
- Modified Setting: Testing in a distraction-reduced environment might be an option.
- Reader/Scribe: A human reader can read test passages aloud, or a scribe can write your answers as you dictate them.
- Large Print Materials: An enlarged version of the test questions can be provided.
- Braille Test: For students with visual impairments, a Braille version of the test may be available.
How to Apply:
To apply for accommodations, you’ll need to submit documentation of your disability along with a completed application form through your school counselor. The College Board has a dedicated Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) office that reviews these applications and determines appropriate accommodations on a case-by-case basis.
Here are some resources for more information:
- The College Board’s Accommodations for the SAT: provides a comprehensive overview of the available accommodations, eligibility requirements, and the application process.
- Understanding Accommodations for the Digital SAT: offers an explanation of how specific accommodations are implemented on the Digital SAT platform.
Important Note:
- Apply well in advance of your test date. The College Board recommends submitting your application for accommodations at least eight weeks before your desired test date to allow sufficient processing time.
- Work with your school counselor or disability services coordinator at your school to ensure a smooth application process.
By understanding the available accommodations and following the application procedures, you can ensure that you have the necessary support to perform your best on the Digital SAT.
Q. What are the benefits of taking the Digital SAT?
A. There are several benefits to taking the Digital SAT compared to the traditional paper-and-pencil version:
- Shorter Testing Time: The Digital SAT is two hours long, compared to three hours for the paper SAT. This can be less tiring for test-takers and potentially improve focus throughout the exam.
- Digital Tools and Interface: Features like a built-in calculator and the ability to copy-paste text can be helpful for some students. The digital format might also allow for easier navigation and highlighting of passages.
- Faster Score Reporting: You can expect to receive your Digital SAT scores within days of taking the test, compared to weeks for the paper version. This quicker turnaround time can be helpful for college application deadlines.
- Potentially More Environmentally Friendly: Less paper is used for the Digital SAT, making it a more eco-friendly testing option.
- Practice with Technology: The digital format aligns more closely with how many students learn and take tests in classrooms today. Familiarity with the digital platform can be beneficial.
Here are some additional benefits to consider:
- Reduced Risk of Errors: Digital scoring eliminates the possibility of human error in the grading process.
- Accessibility Features: The Digital SAT offers a wider range of potential accommodations for students with disabilities, making the test more accessible.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that the Digital SAT might not be ideal for everyone:
- Tech Issues: While unlikely, there’s a chance of encountering technological glitches during the test, which could disrupt your performance.
- Comfort Level: Some students might find the digital format less familiar or comfortable than the traditional paper and pencil approach.
Overall, the Digital SAT offers a streamlined and efficient testing experience with several advantages. If you’re comfortable with digital testing environments, the Digital SAT can be a good option for demonstrating your college readiness.
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