What is the Digital SAT format as of 2024?

The Digital SAT consists of two main sections: Reading & Writing and Math. Each section has two adaptive modules, making four modules total. The test is taken on a computer or tablet using College Board's Bluebook app and lasts approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes, compared to 3+ hours for the old paper SAT.

How does adaptive testing work on the Digital SAT?

The Digital SAT uses a multistage adaptive design. Within each section, Module 1 is the same difficulty for all students. Based on your Module 1 performance, the algorithm assigns you either an easier or harder Module 2. A harder Module 2 gives access to higher scores, while an easier Module 2 caps the maximum score you can achieve.

What are the two sections of the Digital SAT?

The two sections are Reading & Writing (RW) and Math. Each is scored on a scale of 200–800, combining for a total score of 400–1600. The RW section comes first, followed by a break, then the Math section.

How many questions are on the Digital SAT?

The Digital SAT has 98 questions total: 54 in Reading & Writing (27 per module) and 44 in Math (22 per module). This is significantly fewer than the old paper SAT, which had over 150 questions.

How long is each section of the Digital SAT?

Each Reading & Writing module is 32 minutes (64 minutes total for both RW modules). Each Math module is 35 minutes (70 minutes total for both Math modules). There is a 10-minute break between the RW and Math sections.

What is the section order on the Digital SAT?

The order is fixed: Reading & Writing Module 1, Reading & Writing Module 2, a 10-minute break, Math Module 1, and Math Module 2. You cannot go back to a previous module once you have moved forward.

Can I use a calculator on the Digital SAT?

Yes — a calculator is permitted for the entire Math section on the Digital SAT. This is a key change from the old paper SAT, which had a no-calculator section. Desmos, a graphing calculator, is built directly into the Bluebook testing app.

How do I register for the SAT?

Register at collegeboard.org by creating a free College Board account. From your account dashboard, select 'Register for the SAT,' choose a test date and testing center, pay the fee, and upload a photo. Registration typically opens about 2 months before each test date.

When are the SAT test dates in 2025?

College Board typically offers 7 national test dates per year: March, May, June, August, October, November, and December. Exact 2025 dates are posted on collegeboard.org. International test dates may differ slightly. Check the College Board website for the current calendar.

How early should I register for the SAT?

Register as early as possible — ideally the day registration opens for your target date. Popular testing centers fill up quickly, especially in densely populated areas. Late registration is available for an additional $30 fee, but testing center selection is extremely limited.

What is the SAT registration deadline?

The regular registration deadline is approximately 4 weeks before test day. A late registration window, with a $30 surcharge, typically closes about 3 weeks before the test. After that, standby testing may be available for an additional fee, but is not guaranteed.

What is the school-day SAT?

The school-day SAT is administered at your own high school on a weekday, usually in the spring, often fully paid for by the state or district. Many states require all 11th graders to take the SAT as part of their regular school day. Check with your school counselor to see if your state or district offers this.

Is the school-day SAT free?

In many cases, yes. Over 20 U.S. states fund free school-day SAT testing for all public school juniors. Examples include Michigan, Connecticut, Colorado, Illinois, and many others. Even if your state does not fund it universally, many districts cover the cost. Ask your school counselor about your specific situation.

Can international students take the SAT?

Yes. The SAT is offered internationally in over 175 countries at designated College Board test centers. Registration for international students also goes through collegeboard.org. International fees are higher than domestic fees, and the availability of dates may be more limited.

How much does the SAT cost in 2025?

The standard SAT registration fee is $68 for U.S. students. International students pay higher fees, typically $116 or more depending on the country. Additional fees apply for late registration ($30), changing your test date ($30), and score sending beyond the initial 4 free score reports.

What is an SAT fee waiver?

An SAT fee waiver waives the registration fee for eligible low-income students in grades 11 and 12. Fee waiver recipients also receive two free score sends per waiver (in addition to 4 free sends at registration), a free application fee waiver for most colleges, and free access to Khan Academy SAT prep.

Who qualifies for an SAT fee waiver?

You may qualify if you meet any of the following criteria: enrolled in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), family income at or below USDA food assistance guidelines, enrolled in a federal, state, or local program for low-income students, parent is a migrant worker, living in a foster home or are homeless, or are a ward of the state.

How do I get an SAT fee waiver?

Fee waivers are distributed by your high school counselor, not directly by College Board. Talk to your school counselor to find out if you qualify and to get a fee waiver code. You then apply the code during your online SAT registration to eliminate the registration fee.

How many fee waivers can I get?

College Board allows eligible students to use up to two fee waivers total — one for each of 11th and 12th grade. Each waiver covers one full SAT test registration. If you use both waivers and want to take the SAT again, you must pay the standard fee.

What additional benefits come with a fee waiver?

Fee waiver students receive: waived SAT registration fee, two additional free score reports (beyond the 4 at registration), access to college application fee waivers at participating institutions, free access to College Board BigFuture tools, and automatic enrollment in Khan Academy's free personalized SAT prep program.

Is Khan Academy SAT prep really free?

Yes. Khan Academy offers a completely free, official SAT prep program in partnership with College Board. It includes thousands of practice questions, 8 full-length official practice tests, instructional videos, and personalized practice recommendations. You access it at khanacademy.org/sat.

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