Digital SAT Test : Dates, Registration, Format, Syllabus, Eligibility, Scores
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Undergraduate students studying in high school and wishing to study in a college abroad may have to appear for a standardised exam like Digital SAT or ACT. Those who choose to go for the Digital SAT exam can get all the details here. Check out Digital SAT eligibility, dates, registration process, format, and the new exam pattern.
In 2024, around 1.9 million students appeared for the SAT exam compared to 1.39 million ACT exam takers. SAT is required at most of the leading universities in the US, Canada, Australia, Italy and others. From March 2023, the Digital SAT was introduced by the College Board. From being conducted on paper, the Scholastic Assessment Test has become digitalised. Upon being digitalised, the SAT exam underwent a few changes. Let's examine the following article to review the proposed changes and other prerequisites for taking the Digital SAT exam in 2025.
- Digital SAT Exam 2025 Highlights
- What is the Digital SAT Exam?
- Key Features of Digital SAT Exam
- Digital SAT 2025 Eligibility for Indians
- Digital SAT 2025-26 Exam Dates for Indian Students
- How to Register for Digital SAT Exam in 2025?
- Digital SAT Format 2025
- Digital SAT Scores & Results
- How Can Students Prepare for Digital SAT Exam?
- How Many Times Should Students Re-Take Digital SAT?
Digital SAT Exam 2025 Highlights
| Exam Conducted | Digitally (Computer-based) |
| Gone Digital Since | March 2023 in India |
| App on which SAT is Conducted | Bluebook App |
| Applicants Tested on Devices | Laptops / iPads / Tabs |
| Duration | 2 hours 14 minutes |
| Essay & Subject Section Testing | Not tested anymore |
| Digital SAT Testing Sections | Reading + Writing (RW) | Mathematics |
| Total Questions per Section | SAT RW: 54 Questions SAT Mathematics: 44 Questions |
| SAT Score Range | 800 + 800 = 1600 |
| SAT Registration Fees for Indians | USD 138.98 (includes taxes) |
| Indian SAT Centres | 73+ |
What is the Digital SAT Exam?
The Digital SAT, now commonly called SAT, is a standardised test for undergraduate applicants applying for admissions abroad. The SAT exam before March 2023 was a pencil-and-paper test, but after this, it became digital. After the SAT became digital, the applicants were permitted to take the SAT exam on their laptops, iPads or other permitted devices. With changes in the mode of conduction, SAT's syllabus, pattern, scoring and preparation had also changed. Check out the section below to understand the key features of the latest Digital SAT exam.
Key Features of Digital SAT Exam
So, what's new on the Digital SAT exam? A couple of changes distinguish the older version of the SAT from the Digital SAT exams. Some of the key changes that have changed the face of the SAT exam since March 2023 are as follows:
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1. Digital SAT is Computer-Adaptive
Since the SATs have transitioned to a digital format, they have become computer-adaptive. This means the test adjusts its difficulty based on how a student answers in the first section. So, if a student answers correctly, the next set of questions will be harder; if not answered correctly, the questions on the Digital SAT will be more straightforward.
2. Digital SAT is Shorter in Duration
Initially, the SAT exam was three hours long, but the new Digital SAT exam is 2 hours and 14 minutes long. Thus, there are 98 questions on the Digital SAT compared to 154 questions (minus the essay questions) on the previous version of the SAT exam. Additionally, there is a 10-minute break between the two sections of the SAT exam. Thus, almost 46 minutes shorter than the previous edition of the SAT exam.
3. Two Sections on Digital SAT & Two Sub-Modules
The offline SAT included three sections: Reading, Writing & Language, and Math. There was also an optional essay that was available on the previous SAT exam edition. Currently, there are only two sections, each with two sub-modules. Reading and Writing are now one section, and Math is the second section. Additionally, the latest version does not offer an optional essay.
4. Use of Calculators Permitted for All Questions
Previously, calculators were permitted for use for certain SAT Maths section questions. But on Digital SAT, calculators can be used across all questions on the SAT Math section. There is no restriction on the use of calculators. Rather, applicants can also find the built-in calculator on the Bluebook App for use.
5. Provision to take Digital SAT on Personal Laptops
Applicants can use their laptops, iPads or tablets to take the Digital SAT exam. Additionally, those without a device can request one from the College Board when registering for the Digital SAT exam. This feature was not present in the previous version of SAT. Applicants taking Digital SAT on personal devices must download the Bluebook App to take the exam at the SAT exam centre.
Want more details? Check out all details at: New SAT Format: Difference Between Old and New SAT Format
The Digital SAT exam is conducted throughout the year, and Indian students can check the Digital SAT exam dates, SAT exam centres, and availability of SAT exam scores beforehand. This will, in turn, help them make informed decisions and plan accordingly. The following section provides a detailed discussion of each aspect related to the SAT exam, which will benefit high school applicants.
Digital SAT 2025 Eligibility for Indians
There are no pre-defined SAT eligibility criteria for any set of students. Applicants in high school or classes X to XII can appear for the SAT exam. On average, students aged 17 and above typically take the SAT exam. Thus, high school students who decide to study abroad can also take the SAT exam after graduating from school.
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Visa applicationDigital SAT 2025-26 Exam Dates for Indian Students
The Digital SAT exam is held in India eight times a year (starting from 2025), in March, May, June, August, September, October, November, and December. SAT exam dates are released well in advance by the College Board and can be viewed on the website: http://sat.collegeboard.org.
Digital SAT Test Schedule 2025 for Indian Applicants
On the following dates, the Digital SAT exam is being conducted for the year 2025 for Indian applicants:
- March 8, 2025
- May 3, 2025
- June 7, 2025
- August 23, 2025
- September 13, 2025
- October 4, 2025
- November 8, 2025
- December 6, 2025
Earlier, the College Board proposed seven Digital SAT exam dates, but in 2025, eight additional dates have been proposed. The dates are typically fixed and rarely change. In the event of SAT exam date changes, applicants will be notified well in advance within a specified timeframe. Applicants must check the Digital SAT dates and prepare to take the exam according to the university deadlines.
Anticipated 2026 Digital SAT Exam Dates
College Board has announced some of the initial dates for the Digital SAT exam 2026, and they are as follows:
- March 14, 2026
- May 2, 2026
- June 6, 2026
Those looking to apply for SAT exam 2025 can keep these dates at the back of their mind for now.
How to Register for Digital SAT Exam in 2025?
To appear for the exam, applicants must first register for the SAT exam. Registration for the SAT exam is simple and can be done online easily by a 17-year-old applicant. To register for the SAT exam, applicants can follow these simple steps below:
- Log on to the College Board's website and find the option to sign up.
- Upon signing up, you will have the option to register for the SAT. Click on the button, and the application will open.
- Many details are required from the College Board, which must be filled out with utmost care.
- After completing all the details, the applicant will be prompted to select the desired SAT exam date in their chosen city and the corresponding SAT exam centre.
- The centre options will open up based on the SAT exam dates, and applicants must make a choice.
- The nearest SAT exam centre can be found by entering the test centre code or by manually searching for the available SAT centres in the chosen city.
- Finally, the application will require a photo update during registration or it can be submitted later; it's also up to the applicant. Submitting the SAT exam fee is necessary to secure the SAT exam date and centre.
There are options for late registration for the SAT exam, but applicants must make a payment when they do so. Once applicants register for the Digital SAT, they can download the Bluebook App and begin practising Digital SATs.
Digital SAT Format 2025
The SAT skills taught in high school classrooms include reading, writing, and math. A student’s knowledge and skills in these areas are important for success in college and beyond. Since the SAT exam has gone digital, the Digital SAT exam pattern has also got a makeover. The following is the latest SAT exam pattern for prospective applicants:
| Digital SAT Parameters |
Digital SAT Reading & Writing (RW) Section |
Digital SAT Math Section |
|---|---|---|
|
Format (Tested across two stages) |
Reading is one, and the other is the Writing section. Questions are tested together for the RW Section. |
The math section is administered via two separate modules |
| Test length (total operational and pretest questions) |
|
|
| Scores Reported |
Total score calculation: SAT RW section + SAT Math section scores = 1600 |
|
| Question Type(s) |
MCQs |
75% MCQ + 25% Student-produced response (SPR) |
| Topics Tested |
Literature, History / Social Studies, Humanities and Science |
Science, Social Science and real-world related topics |
| Informational Graphics |
Tested, includes - tables, bar graphs, line graphs |
Also tested |
This is the ideal SAT exam pattern after digitalising for more details about preparation topics, check out SAT Exam Syllabus 2025.
Digital SAT Scores & Results
Each section of the SAT exam (RW and Mathematics) is scored on a 200-800 point scale, for a possible maximum total of 1600. Students also get two ‘subscores’ on the writing section: a multiple-choice score from 20 to 80. There is also scope for SAT super scoring, which allows students to submit their scores to universities that accept them. Here is a breakdown of SAT exam scores and results, section-wise, for applicants:
| SAT Components |
Description |
Score Range |
|---|---|---|
| Total Score |
The aggregate of the two section scores |
400–1600 |
| Section Scores |
Reading & Writing and Math Sections |
200–800 |
| SAT Sub Scores |
Reading and Writing: Command of Evidence and Words in Context & Expression of Ideas and Standard English Conventions. Math: Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, and Passport to Advanced Math. |
200-200 |
The Digital SAT is scored on a 1600 scale overall. Thus, applicants aiming for a perfect SAT score can check out How to Score 1600 on SAT? There is a different way to calculate average SAT scores. Want to know more? Check out the Digital SAT score calculator at - How to Calculate SAT Scores?
Digital SAT Test Results
Test results are typically released within 2-3 weeks of the test administration and can be viewed online. Students can choose to send their test scores to colleges of their choice. They also have the option to cancel their test score or withhold them from being sent to certain colleges. For additional SAT score reports, applicants will have to pay an additional fee; usually, four free SAT score reports are provided, and any additional reports are chargeable.
Check out: SAT 2025 Cutoff for Top Colleges
How Can Students Prepare for Digital SAT Exam?
SAT exam preparation typically spans 2-3 months, depending on the applicant's prior knowledge. Applicants can use the following strategies to ace their SAT preparations:
- Understand the Digital SAT exam format and syllabus and check where you would need maximum time for preparation.
- Create a schedule and plan how you will approach your SAT exam prep section by section, and follow it.
- Students can also purchase ‘The Official SAT Guide’ or the ‘Official SAT Online Course’ on the College Board website. Detailed information about several practice resources is available at SAT Best Books & Resources.
- Once confident, you must take Digital SAT practice tests and analyse your performance.
- If you need more help, you can prepare using Khan Academy tutorials.
Practice and consistency are essential to maintain the momentum in preparing for the Digital SAT exam. Solving Digital SAT practice tests can also be beneficial for applicants.
How Many Times Should Students Re-Take Digital SAT?
At least half of all students re-take the SAT twice, and most students see an improvement in their scores the second time they take the test. It is not uncommon for students to retake the SAT multiple times, and in most cases, they will have a higher score. There are many reasons behind this; many students take the test more than once to increase their chances of being accepted to their dream school. Some test-takers are nervous or anxious on the first day, while others may be more confident the second time.
There is a big difference between new and old SAT exam. First of all the new SAT exam is called as SAT Digital because it has digitalised and is no more tested offline. Secondly, the SAT Digital exam pattern has changed and it has become even easier for students to attempt the exam. The other rules for registration have remained the same. Check out the difference below between SAT exam and SAT Digital exam.
SAT Exam (Old)
- The old SAT exam consisted of three sections and an optional writing section as well.
- The exam was conducted offline and the duration on the old SAT pattern was longer, around 3+ hours and an additional time for the writing section.
- The old SAT was paper-pencil based and reading and writing were two different sections.
- The math section on old SAT included a calculator section and a non-calculator section.
SAT Digital Exam (New)
While in the new edition,
- SAT exam has gone digital and the duration has decreased by an hour plus no optional writing section is available.
- There are just two sections, reading and writing are now one section, math is the second section.
- The math section allows students to use calculator for both modules.
- The questions have become shorter and the students can answer 68% faster than other exams tested on a similar pattern.
SAT exam is conducted eight times in a year, in India and globally. The SAT exam is conducted in the following months annually:
- March
- May
- June
- August
- September
- October
- November
- December
SAT exam is conducted on Saturdays of the above-given months. Sunday testings are unavailable in India. Applicants can check out the latest dates on - SAT Exam Dates.
College Board has added one more SAT testing date in the month of September from 2025. Thus, applicants can choose to apply for one more SAT exam date if they wish to in September.
With the introduction of SAT Digital, the SAT exam has also become an adaptive test. This means that when the applicant attempts the very first module (irrespective of the section - RW or Math) the test functionality determines the difficulty level of the second module. Thus, the questions that will be tested on the second module will be based on how the applicants answered the questions on the first module. This, in turn, factors in an accurate assessment of the applicant's performance. Since the difficulty of questions on SAT change based on the first module, however, the overall SAT exam syllabus for testing the applicants remains the same.
The following tools are available on Bluebook App while attempting the SAT exam:
- Test Timer - Gives you a track of time. Can be hidden but will alert you five minutes before the section/exam gets over.
- Calculator - A Desmos graphing calculator is available on Bluebook App which can be dragged anywhere on the screen for use.
- Reference Sheet - This is applicable for Math section, where commonly used formulae appear for applicant's reference.
- Highlights & Notes - Help applicants highlight important part of the question and review later for answering by attaching a note.
- Mark for Review - To come back to a question, use this tool to bookmark the question and answer it later.
- Line Reader - This tool is used to read test content with focus.
- Option Eliminator - Eliminate options that are not right, you can change the options again if needed.
- Question Menu - There is a list of questions either unaswered, marked for review or to go to any question that was answered also.
- Zoom - You can zoom in or out using the keyboard shortcut to look at any question or part of the question.
The new in the Digital SAT format is that:
- It is 46 minutes shorter than the previous edition and 2 hours 14 minutes long.
- Computer-adaptive where difficulty increases or decreases based on performance per section.
- SAT exam is now taken online on the Bluebook App on one's own device, or a borrowed device from College Board.
- Reading and Writing is one section, rather than two different sections.
- Math's section permits applicants to use calculator for both its sub-sections.
- SAT exam scoe scale has come down to 1600 from 2400 initially.
Digital SAT is comparatively easier than SAT exam (older version) because of three reasons:
- The exam has become shorter, plus questions have been slashed too.
- Use of calculators for all SAT Math questions is an added advantage for applicants.
- Lastly, since Digital SAT is computer adaptive, applicants will be given a mix of questions based on their answer accuracy, which is also beneficial. So if applicants answer questions incorrectly, they will not get difficult questions, rather they will get easier ones.
MIT is not costly for Indian students. Applicants can study BTech program at affordable tuition fees as compared to other BTech colleges in the USA. The MIT BTech fees is around INR 50 L to INR 52 L.
However, students should be cautioned against taking the SAT too many times, as no evidence that taking the SAT multiple times significantly changes their score. Instead, students should focus their time on other important college application components and on excelling academically. Students should note that some universities may require them to submit all their scores.
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The Digital SAT is the online or the digitalised version of the SAT exam. Previously, SAT was conducted on pen and paper and since March 2023, for Indian applicants SAT has become online or digital. Thus, as the name suggests, Digital SAT is a standardised exam for applicants applying for admissions abroad for undergraduate courses.