The New SAT Digital Exam
As announced by College Board, the SAT is transitioning to a digital format—a significant change that prompts preparation from students and educators worldwide. This major update impacts both international and U.S. test-takers. Although the rollout timeline differs by location, the shift marks the beginning of a new era in standardized testing. A clear understanding of the digital SAT’s structure and expectations will be essential for students planning to take the exam in the coming years.
International vs. U.S. Rollout
The digital SAT is scheduled to launch first for international students in March 2023. U.S. students will follow in March 2024. Students and parents should stay updated with official College Board announcements to ensure they are preparing for the correct version of the exam.
The following table details the tentative SAT exam updates from College Board. Created by Presidio Education®, 2022.
| Current SAT Exam vs. Upcoming SAT Digital Exam | |
|---|---|
| Current SAT Exam | SAT Digital Exam 2023 |
| Total test time = 3 Hours | Total test time = 2 Hours |
| Reading Test
Writing & Language Test Math Test–No Calculator Math Test–Calculator |
Reading Test
Writing & Language Test Math Test–Calculator |
| High school-level reading passages | College-level reading passages |
| Longer reading passages | Shorter reading passages |
| Reading passages with multiple questions tied to each passage | Reading passages with only one (1) question tied to each passage |
| Math Test–No Calculator and Math Test–Calculator with longer questions in context and longer word problems | Math Test–Calculator with shorter questions in context and shorter word problems |
| No Essay Test | No Essay Test |
| Scores released in weeks | Scores released in days |
| Total SAT Score = 1600 | Total SAT Score = 1600 |
What Stays the Same
Despite the new digital format, the SAT will still be scored on a 1600-point scale. It will continue to assess students on reading, writing, and math fundamentals that colleges value in applicants. Most colleges and universities in the United States have expressed support for the digital SAT, affirming that it will carry the same academic weight as the previous version.
What Changes
One of the most significant changes is the adaptive testing format. This means that the digital SAT adjusts the difficulty of questions based on student performance during the exam. Additionally, each exam section is broken into two modules, and the difficulty of the second module depends on a student’s performance on the first.
The digital SAT will also:
Be shorter than the paper version. The total test time is about 2 hours and 14 minutes, not including breaks. This is a noticeable reduction from the previous SAT, which lasted around 3 hours.
Allow the use of a built-in graphing calculator (Desmos) during the entire math section. Students may also use an approved personal calculator.
Be administered through College Board’s Bluebook™ app, a digital testing platform available on approved devices.
Include shorter reading passages with one question per passage, making it easier to stay focused and retain information.
Importantly, all math questions are multiple choice. There are neither free-response nor “grid-in” questions on the digital version, which should help reduce input errors.
Testing Platform and Devices
Students can take the digital SAT on approved devices, including Windows laptops, MacBooks, iPads, and school-managed Chromebooks. Those who do not have access to a device may request to borrow one from College Board. Students must download and install the Bluebook™ testing application in advance and are encouraged to complete a full-length practice test using the same platform.
How to Prepare
Since the exam is adaptive and digital, preparation strategies must evolve. Students should practice using digital tools and typing written responses to mimic the test-day experience. Additionally, building stamina for reading on-screen and becoming familiar with on-screen calculators and annotation tools will be key for success.
At Presidio Education®, we offer targeted SAT training that prepares students for the updated format. Our SAT programs include diagnostic testing, real-time practice with the Bluebook™ system, time management techniques, and adaptive testing simulations. We focus on helping students build confidence, sharpen accuracy, and reduce test-day anxiety.
Looking Ahead
The transition to the digital SAT represents an exciting shift. It promises a more modern, flexible, and accessible testing experience. However, students must begin preparing early to adapt to this new format and perform their best.
For more information about our SAT training programs, please visit our Registration page or contact our team. We’re here to guide you through every step of the transition.
