Starting in 2024, the SAT will be digital!

Starting in 2024, the SAT will undergo significant changes. Many of us have been waiting for either the SAT or ACT to go digital and I am guessing the ACT will not be far behind in making necessary changes to compete with the SATs new format. Here’s a short breakdown of what you need to know.

First, the entire test will be digital. The exam will be taken on an electronic device, most likely a laptop at a testing location such as at a high school. If a student does not have access to a laptop or device, the College Board will provide a device for that student.

Second, the exam will be only two hours long. This is shortened from being just a little over three hours long which for many is a very long time. I am very excited for this change.

Third, students will be permitted to use a calculator for the math section. Also, the entire test will be adaptive. This means that students will have different questions and they will vary. The new SAT will effect the Class of 2025 and beyond. Last, scores should be available in a matter of days versus weeks.

These changes were needed to help keep the exam stay relevant in the college admissions world where test optional has become more and more common. It will be interesting to see how the ACT reacts.