Digital SAT - Easier, Harder, or the Same?
Introduction
You've probably heard about the SAT, the big test many students take for college. Well, now they're talking about making it digital. But what does that mean for us? Will it make the test easier and tougher, or will things stay the same?
Let's take a closer look to find out what's changing, what's staying the same, and what this means for future generations.
The Transition to Digital SAT
In 2022, CollegeBoard officially announced that the SAT exams were going digital. International students first took the digital exams in the spring of 2023, while U.S. students took them in the spring of 2024. This begs the question: Is the digital SAT easier?
What Stays the same?
- Reading, Writing, and Math section
- 1600-point scale
- No penalty for guessing
- Accommodations are provided to qualifying students
- Tests are administered with a proctor present
What’s Different?
- A functional device (laptop or tablet) is required
- Shorter test (approximately 2 hours)
- Shorter reading passages
- All math sections are calculator-active
- The difficulty level is determined based on the performance in the previous module
Be sure to familiarize yourself with the exam structure before your test day. Get advice from the College Board.
What is Bluebook?
Bluebook is the new College Board app where students take the digital SAT and other College Board exams. The app includes various tools like a timer, annotations, and a calculator, and it also has full-length digital practice exams. “The Bluebook app was designed with access in mind and can handle technology disruptions. If the internet disconnects or a student’s device runs out of battery during testing, they can continue or pick up where they left off without losing their work or testing time” (College Board, 2024). Bluebook makes it a lot easier for students to organize their thoughts during the exam and avoid the stress of technology issues. See the FAQs about Bluebook.
Advantages of the Digital SAT
Better Access
With a digital SAT, more students could take the test. That's great news, especially for those who might have trouble with the old way because of physical challenges. Expanding access to the SAT through a digital format can be a game-changer for students facing physical challenges. Traditional paper-based tests can present significant barriers for individuals with disabilities, ranging from visual impairments to motor limitations.
By transitioning to a digital platform, the SAT can incorporate accessibility features such as screen readers, adjustable font sizes, and navigation aids, leveling the playing field for all students regardless of their physical abilities. This shift promotes inclusivity and empowers students to demonstrate their true academic potential without the hindrance of physical limitations. Also, it fits with the idea that schools want to use technology to make things fair for everyone and give everyone the same chances to learn and do well.
Quick Feedback/Results
Getting feedback right away can help you see where you did well and where you need to improve, and this can help raise your score for the next time you take the test. SAT scores are usually available 2-3 weeks after the test is taken, and you can get access to scores online on CollegeBoard’s website, which is an easier platform to be accessible to everyone all over the world.
Tailored Testing
The coolest part that can’t be done on the paper SAT is that the digital test could change based on how well/poorly you're doing. If you're acing questions, it might give you tougher ones, whereas if you're struggling, it might make things a bit easier. It's like having a test that's just right for you and is designed to change based on your progress.
Challenges of the Digital SAT
Tech Gaps
Not everyone has access to computers or the internet at home, especially across the world. So, making the SAT digital might be tricky for some students because they cannot access it. It's important to make sure everyone has a fair shot at taking the test, but inclusivity can be demolished at times like this. To overcome this challenge, libraries and other testing centers are making themselves available to the public in order to give everyone an equal chance to take the SAT.
Test Troubles
Digital tests can have their own set of problems. For example, if the test randomly decides to freeze in the middle, nothing can be done because the SAT is a time-based test. For this, time is lost and cannot be gained back. Also, when staring at a screen, it is easier for individuals to get distracted faster, and it hurts their ability to finish on time.
Learning New Tricks & Prevention
Switching from pencil and paper to digital might take some getting used to for many individuals. Navigating through the test on a computer could be a challenge at first, but with a bit of practice, you'll get the hang of it! Making sure nobody cheats or messes with the test online is also very important. It's a big job to keep everything secure when the test is happening online so everyone can demonstrate their knowledge.
3 Tips to Prepare for the Digital SAT
Familiarize Yourself with Bluebook
Practice taking the SAT online. Play around with the tools on Blubbook and explore all the features. Take note of the tools that will be the most helpful so you know where to locate them. You don’t want the test day to be the first time you see the digital exam!
Make a Study Schedule
Start early by planning out your weekly and daily tasks. Be specific on when you’ll study and for how long. Are you going to take a full practice test? Just one section? Are you studying over the weekends? After school? Include all the necessary details to ensure you stay on track and don’t resort to cramming the day before.
Practice!
Just like the paper & pencil SAT, practice is crucial. Since the digital SAT forms are unique to everyone, you want to expand your knowledge on a wider range of questions. You can use the free online practice tests on Bluebook or hard copy SAT practice books. Some popular practice books include Kaplan, The Princeton Review, and Barron’s. The college board also has an official study guide and an official Digital SAT Prep for Khan Academy.
Conclusion
So, what's the verdict? Will the digital SAT be easier, harder, or the same as the old-fashioned one administered on paper? It's hard to say because it also depends on an individual’s testing style. There are definitely advantages to going digital, like better access and quick feedback. Still, on the other hand, there are challenges, like tech gaps and keeping everything safe and fair. As the SAT moves into the digital world, it's important to make sure it's fair for everyone. After all, the SAT is all about giving everyone a chance to show what they can do.
Luckily, Kollegio is the perfect resource for college applications and knowing how to leverage your SAT score. We have a plethora of blogs, just like this one, to provide students with useful tips and guides. Sign up now for free access to all of Kollegio’s features!
By Annabel Chou & Parinitha Karri
