You all must have hear by now that the SAT has gone digital. The test remains mostly the same, except for a few changes. A number of resources are available for SAT practice, but the Bluebook app offers free practice tests as assessments for the final test. The app includes test previews that show you real test questions. You can try out test tools and assistive technologies. The app includes four full-length SATs, and these tests are scoring automatically. They give you a good idea of your strengths and weaknesses. College Board has partnered with Khan Academy to offer free SAT prep resources.
Familiar Terrain
The SAT remains one of the most important college prerequisites. Even SAT-optional colleges value it as a college admissions tool. The SAT allows you to apply to universities in the US and globally. In case you are wondering, the digital SAT is similar to the paper version. It still tests what you learnt in school in preparation for college. The score scale remains the same as the pencil and paper version.
So What’s New
You may be wondering what’s changed. Two additional SATs have been added to the calendar, making a total of 7 dates per year. The digital SAT is shorter than the pencil and paper version. It lasts 2 hours and 14 minutes instead of 3 hours. You get more time to answer each question. The SAT now focuses more on testing your knowledge and skill rather than your test-taking speed.
Preparing for the SATs
Within the app, you will have access to a test preview, which helps you get familiar with the app and test structure. You’ll also get to try out sample questions from the Reading and Writing and Math sections. You will have access to full-length practice tests, and you receive a final score for each one. These tests help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. That way, you can create a focused study plan. With the College Board partnering with the Khan Academy, you get videos, articles, and worked examples. The Khan Academy also gives you resources based on your test type, date, and location.
Edufit and Eye on Ivy
For students in Pakistan, Eye on Ivy offers a unique SAT prep opportunity. We have partnered with Edufit, a US-based online SAT program. Edufit is the only customized online program where 89% of students achieved a 200-point or 4-point increase. This happened in just 8 weeks of prep. The advisory board of Edufit includes the Senior Director of College Board, who is also the creator of the digital SAT.
Final Thoughts
By using the tools available and staying dedicated to your SAT preparation, you can improve your confidence, performance, and test scores. Success on the SAT takes time and effort. It’s important to stay focused, stay motivated, and keep pushing yourself toward your goals.
Fatima Burki
Fatima Burki is a graduate of the University of Sussex in the UK. Former editor of The Daily Times, Lahore, Pakistan, she's also worked as a research editor at Imagination Publishing in Chicago, USA. With more than 20 plus years of writing and editing experience, Fatima is Eye on Ivy's resident lexicon and ace proofreader.