SAT Suite
International Students: College Board Answers Your Questions About the Digital SAT
You’ve probably already heard that College Board will soon make the SAT digital. It’s an exciting move in the right direction. But it might also mean that you’ve got questions. Here’s what international students need to know.
Is the SAT still important to take?
It sure is! The SAT puts your achievements into context. That means it shows off your qualifications to universities and helps you stand out.
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Each year, students across nearly 200 countries take the SAT to apply to universities in the U.S. and more than 80 countries across the globe.
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Even though there are wide variations in curricular standards, grading systems, and course offerings, the SAT evens out the disparities from school to school and region to region.
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In the Class of 2020, nearly 90% of international students had SAT scores that confirmed or exceeded their secondary school GPA.
When is the SAT going digital?
Students testing outside the U.S. will first take the digital SAT in Spring 2023. So, you’ll have plenty of time to prepare and get familiar with the digital test.
Most students take the SAT for the first time in the spring of 11th grade. If you’re an international student in the class of 2024 or later, you’ll probably take the digital SAT.
Isn’t this just the same test but online?
College Board isn’t just going to take the paper-and-pencil test and put it on the computer. We’re taking the opportunity to make the SAT a far better test experience for you.
What’s Staying the Same?
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Still measuring the knowledge and skills that matter most for universities.
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Still scored on a 1600 scale.
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Still administering in schools or test centers with a proctor present (not at home). Test centers will continue to be open to all students, not just those enrolled in that school.
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Still offering access to free, world-class practice resources.
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Still supporting all students, including those who need accommodations on test day.
What’s Changing?
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You’ll take the SAT on a laptop or tablet.
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You’ll take a shorter test, about 2 hours instead of 3.
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You’ll have shorter reading passages instead of a few long texts.
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You’ll be allowed to use your calculator on the entire math section and there’s a calculator built right into the digital testing application.
How do I register?
Registration for the spring 2023 digital SAT is now open. You can check international dates and deadlines here and find a test center close to you here.
How do I practice?
Find everything you need to start practicing and preparing for the digital SAT here.
Have more questions? We’ve got answers!
Learn more about the digital SAT here and watch the webinar for international students and parents.
