As of March 2024, the paper-and-pencil SAT is no longer available. The new digital format of the SAT is delivered through Bluebook™, College Board’s official testing app. Here’s how to get the app and get ready for testing.
Since the SAT is now fully digital, you must download and use the Bluebook™ app to take the test. Follow these steps to install, set up, and practice (many times) before test day. Bluebook™ is the official testing app by College Board that students must use to take the digital SAT, PSAT, and AP exams. It is a secure, locked-down testing application that prevents students from accessing other programs during the test.
Bluebook will check your device’s memory, battery, and security settings to ensure it’s test-ready.
📝 How to Practice with Bluebook
Take a Full-Length Practice Test:
Inside Bluebook, you’ll find four official practice tests.
The test mimics the real SAT experience with:
Timer
Adaptive module changes
On-screen calculator
After finishing, you’ll get instant scores.
Familiarize Yourself with the Digital Tools:
✅ Use the built-in Desmos calculator for math.
✅ Try annotation tools to highlight and take notes.
✅ Use the flag feature to mark questions to return to later.
Review Official SAT Question Formats:
The digital test has new question styles, especially in Reading & Writing (shorter passages with one question each).
🔋 Preparing Your Device for Test Day
Fully charge your device the night before
Some test centers may allow charging, but don’t rely on it.
Keep your login info handy
You’ll need your College Board login on test day.
Ensure Bluebook is up to date
Open the app and check for updates at least a few days before the test.
Bring a backup calculator (optional)
If you prefer a physical calculator, you can bring an approved model.
🛠 Troubleshooting Bluebook
App won’t open? Restart your device and check for updates.
Can’t log in? Reset your College Board password.
Issues on test day? Let the proctor know immediately.
📌 Final Tips
✅ Take at least one full-length practice test in Bluebook. ✅ Get used to the digital tools (flagging, annotating, Desmos calculator). ✅ Arrive early to set up your device and troubleshoot any last-minute issues. ✅ Practice under timed conditions to get comfortable with the real test pace.
6 Key Things to Know About the Digital SAT
1. How the Digital SAT is Different from the Paper SAT
The test is shorter—2 hours and 14 minutes instead of the previous 3+ hours.
It’s adaptive—the test adjusts the difficulty of later sections based on your performance in the first module.
Each student gets a unique test version, reducing concerns about cheating.
Students can use a built-in Desmos calculator for the entire Math section.
2. Devices Required
You must bring your own device to your test, such as:
A Windows laptop or MacBook
An iPad
A school-managed Chromebook
(Some schools provide loaner devices if needed.)
Phones and personal Chromebooks are NOT allowed.
3. Internet and Testing Experience
Internet is needed to start the exam, but after that, the test runs offline.
Your answers auto-save, so even if Wi-Fi disconnects, your progress won’t be lost.
4. How Scoring and Timing Works
Section-adaptive format: The test changes difficulty based on performance.
Scoring remains the same as the paper SAT (out of 1600).
You’ll get scores faster—within days instead of weeks.
5. What to Bring on Test Day
Your approved device with Bluebook installed
Your admission ticket (from College Board)
An approved calculator (if you prefer a physical one)
A power bank or charger (if allowed)
Valid photo ID
6. Where to Take the Digital SAT
At designated test centers (schools, colleges, etc.).
