What is the Digital SAT?

The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) is a standardized exam used by colleges and universities in the United States to assess a student's readiness for higher education. The SAT measures skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.

In 2023, the College Board introduced a fully digital SAT, replacing the traditional paper-based test. This new version provides a shorter, adaptive, and more efficient testing experience.

SAT Exam Structure

The SAT consists of two main sections, each divided into two adaptive modules:

Reading and Writing
Mathematics

The exam is 2 hours and 14 minutes long, making it significantly shorter than previous versions. The new adaptive format adjusts the difficulty of the second module based on a student’s performance in the first module.

SAT Section Breakdown

The table below outlines the structure of the digital SAT, including time limits, question types, and scoring:

Section	Time Limit	Number of Questions	Description	Calculator
Reading and Writing	64 minutes	54	Passage-based comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary in context	Not allowed
Mathematics	70 minutes	44	Algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and advanced math	Allowed

Note: The digital SAT is adaptive, meaning the test tailors the difficulty of questions based on your performance in the first module of each section.

SAT Total Score Breakdown

Your Total SAT Score is calculated based on both sections, with an equal weight distribution:

Score Component	Score Range	Average Score	Impact on Total Score
Total SAT Score	400 – 1600	~1010	Based on Reading/Writing and Math
Reading and Writing	200 – 800	~500 – 550	50% of total score
Mathematics	200 – 800	~500 – 550	50% of total score

Highest SAT Score

The highest possible SAT score is 1600. Competitive colleges typically look for scores in the 1400+ range, with top-tier schools expecting 1500+.

Key Features of the Digital SAT

Shorter Test Duration: The digital SAT lasts 2 hours and 14 minutes, compared to the previous 3-hour format.
Adaptive Testing: Each section has two modules, with the second module adjusting in difficulty based on performance in the first.
Faster Score Reporting: The College Board now delivers results more quickly due to digital administration.
Testing at Schools or Centers: The SAT is still taken at official testing centers or schools using a personal or school-provided device.
On-Screen Calculator: Students can use a built-in graphing calculator for the entire Math section, unlike in previous versions.

How to Register for the SAT

To register for the SAT, visit the official College Board registration page.

The SAT is offered seven times a year:

March, May, June, August, October, November, and December.
Students typically take the SAT in the spring of their junior year and, if necessary, retake it in the fall of their senior year.

Prepare for the SAT with Practice Questions

Scoring well on the SAT requires effective preparation and familiarity with the digital format. Start practicing today with our comprehensive SAT question bank.