What to Expect on SAT Test Day

After completing the exhaustive SAT registration process, submitting any requests for special accommodations, and familiarizing yourself with the SAT Digital format, exam day has arrived.

This article will help you have a stress-free experience and arrive at the SAT exam with everything you need to know to avoid unpleasant surprises.

What do I have to do before SAT test day?

Check the requirements of the device you choose. In addition to the technical requirements of the device, take into account the battery life. If your device doesn’t hold a charge for at least 4 hours, look for another option.
Install the Bluebook™ app. This is the program you will use during the exam at the center.
Complete at least 1 SAT exam model in Bluebook™– it is important to get used to the format.
Perform a quick exam setup to confirm your device meets the requirements five days before the exam. This will also be the only way to download your exam and generate your admission ticket.

What do I need to bring to the testing center?

The device you are going to use: if you carry a tablet, you will also have to carry an external keyboard.
Your admission ticket.
Valid photo ID: The name on the ID must match the name used during registration.
Pencils/pens for the math portion (paper will be provided)
Approved calculator (although an on-screen calculator is available)

What should I bring to the testing center?

An analog clock– Since you won’t have access to your cell phone, you may want to keep track of the time during breaks. Avoid alarm clocks: The last thing you want is for an alarm to go off during the exam.
A charging cable – although students are not guaranteed access to a power outlet, it doesn’t hurt to be well prepared.

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What to expect during the SAT exam

First of all, punctuality is key. If your admission ticket says that the test time is 8, this means that the doors close at 8 and students will not be admitted even a minute later. Although the doors open 15 minutes before the time of the tests – at 7:45 a.m. and the tests start between 8:15 and 8:45 a.m. – plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early. We leave you a list of things that will happen:

Registration: Your supervisor will register and show you your assigned seat.
Connect to the center’s Wi-Fi.
Open Bluebook™ for further instructions.
Enter the start code provided by your supervisor to begin the exam. Bluebook maintains a clock that counts down the time remaining on each section of the exam.
You will take the 2nd Reading and Writing modules first.
Afterwards you will have a 10 minute break. This is when the clock comes in handy to know when you need to come back.
After the break, you will have the 2 Mathematics modules.
Remember that you can skip through each module and review your answers until time is up, but you cannot return to a previous module once you have advanced.
Answers are sent automatically when the test ends.

Bonus: Common questions about exam day

Here are some typical questions that examinees ask themselves when exam day arrives.

Can I bring a cell phone to the SAT test center?

Mobile phones are prohibited during the entire duration of the test, including rest. Proctors will put away cell phones and/or require that you place your device in a backpack away from your desk during the exam. If test administration staff catch you on your phone or make noise, you will have to leave the testing center and your scores may be voided.

Can I ask questions during the SAT?

The proctor only answers questions about the exam procedures, not the content or questions. With proper test preparation, test takers will not be confused or surprised by the types of questions.

What happens if an error occurs when I try to submit SAT answers?

Responses are saved on your device; Therefore, if there are any errors during shipping, you can resend it.

Conclusions

If you prepare properly and use the appropriate resources, you will be able to achieve the highest possible score on the SAT. Reading this list – and double checking it latest information from CollegeBoard – is just one of the ways to make your exam day a smooth experience.

We hope this article has answered your questions. If you have any questions regarding your SAT preparation, give us a call and we will be happy to explain how EPIC PREP can help you achieve your goals. On the other hand, if you prefer to read on, we’ll leave you a link to our SAT courses.

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