December 9, 2023

Understanding The New Digital SAT vs. Paper SAT

Add the SAT to the never-ending list of things transitioning to a digital format.

As of March 9, 2024, the College Board replaced its paper SAT test with a new, digital version after completing a successful launch of the digital PSAT in October of 2023. In this article we explore what a student can expect with the digital SAT vs paper SAT.

The Digital SAT vs. Paper SAT: Screen Time A Parent Can Approve Of

The SAT’s switch to a digital exam will help eliminate several noted shortcomings of paper-based SAT tests including testing fatigue, exam security, and flexibility of scheduling. In addition to negating these concerns, there are other positive aspects of the digital format:

  1. Adaptive testing. Considered cutting-edge assessment technology, computer-adaptive tests are designed to adjust their level of difficulty as the test progresses, based on the responses provided.

The idea is for the questions presented to match the knowledge level of the test taker. The benefit? It is thought that this testing format provides a more precise measure of an individual student’s ability vs. “one-size-fits-all” standardized tests.

  1. Shorter testing sessions. Computer-adaptive testing results in a shorter testing session with a smaller number of questions, since only those questions considered appropriate for the student are offered.

That’s a win against lengthy testing sessions that can lead to fatigue and stress. The SAT will go from 3 hours to just over 2 when the new version rolls out.

  1. Quicker results. With computerized tests, the scoring is also computerized, which means test results are available more quickly than with paper + pencil tests. Faster results = quicker application submission = less anxiety and stress.

The Digital SAT vs Paper SAT: What To Expect

  • Test Locations and Permitted Devices: The current practice of testing at a school or testing center will continue, and students should be able to use a variety of devices.
    • Depending on your location, devices may be provided; check with your testing site to confirm.
    • The testing application will include a calculator (which students will be permitted to use in the math section), as well as other navigational tools.
  • Changes To The Test Structure: While the test subjects–math, reading, and writing–will stay the same, the test structure will change.
    • Subject sections will be broken into two modules; the first made up of standard questions for all students, and the second containing questions tailored to the student’s knowledge level demonstrated in module 1 responses.
    • Testing duration will be 64 minutes (two 32-minute modules) for reading & writing, and 70 minutes for math (two 35-minute modules).
    • Those familiar with the current SAT content will notice that the digital SAT combines reading and writing into one section.
    • Reading passages will be significantly shorter, with 25–150 words as opposed to the current 600–700 words, and there will be only one question per passage.

Student Accommodations

The College Board will provide testing to students with accommodations in the digital, adaptive format. For accommodations that cannot be provided digitally, such as Braille, students will be offered the longer, paper test.

Stay Tuned For More Updates

We’ll continue to provide insights on the new digital SAT vs paper SAT experiences, as well as test prep opportunities and ACT updates in this space. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter or check back regularly to stay up to date.

Other Prep Tools Available

There is also an app from the College Board called Bluebook, which offers full-length practice testing.

Note: It appears to us that practice test #1 in Bluebook is significantly easier than the others and may not provide students with an accurate representation of the new digital SAT. It may be wise to simply skip test #1.

Ready, Set, Go!

Our instructors are well-versed in digital testing and the new digital SAT content. We have a licensed library of digital SAT exams in addition to other College Board exams for review and practice. We’d love to be part of your test preparation; please click here to schedule a consultation.