Perhaps you’ve heard: the SAT is changing. No longer will students need sharpened No. 2 pencils or to double check that their answer sheets are completely bubbled in. Starting next year, the SAT will be administered in a digital format. The changes will begin in 2023 in other countries and in 2024 in the United States.
In brief, the changes:
1. Students will take the SAT on a laptop or tablet, but only at a testing center with a proctor; no tests will be given at home. Laptops or tablets will be provided for students who need them.
2. The exam will be shortened from three hours to two hours with more time given per question.
3. Calculators will be allowed on the entire math section.
4. Reading passages will be shortened and will reflect a wider range of topics.
5. Students will receive scores in days instead of weeks.
The test will still be scored on a 1600 scale, and students will still have access to the free SAT practice resources on Kahn Academy.
According to the College Board, in the pilot runs they conducted last year, 80 percent of students said they found the digital tests less stressful.
In other news, in its next term, the Supreme Court will review a challenge to the use of race in college admissions. Supporters say affirmative action is critical for bringing a diverse mix of students to campus, while opponents say it qualifies as its own form of discrimination. We are keeping abreast of this important topic.
Additional Assistance
Our college advisors can help you navigate the often-changing college admissions landscape. For any and all help with college admissions, including help connecting to an SAT tutor, contact International College Counselors.
Visit https://internationalcollegecounselors.com or call 954-414-9986 x6.