Is Digital SAT Better or Pen & Paper SAT?
The SAT went through a major revision in March 2016, so there are some key differences between the old and new versions of the test. Here's a quick rundown: Scoring: Format: Content: Overall, the new SAT aims to be more streamlined and assess the skills students will need for college success. There are resources available online to help convert scores between the two formats, but colleges generally consider scores from both versions to be equally valid. EXPLORE THE SAT COURSE BOOK A FREE TRIAL SESSION Differences Between Old and New SAT Format : What has Changed in Digital SAT 2023? The big change in 2023 was the introduction of the digital SAT, but it was only available for international students that year. Here's what changed with the Digital SAT: The digital SAT became available in the US in March 2024. SAT Suite-level Changes : Here's what's changed at the SAT Suite level, focusing on the digital format introduced in March 2024: Test Length: The biggest change is the test's overall length. The digital SAT Suite assessments are substantially shorter than their paper and pencil predecessors, lasting only 2 hours and 14 minutes compared to 3 hours. Time per Question: With a shorter test, students have more time, on average, to answer each question. This shift in focus means the digital SAT Suite assesses students' skills and knowledge rather than just test-taking speed. Faster Score Reporting: Students and educators will receive scores faster - in days instead of weeks with the digital format. SAT Sectional Changes : The main sectional changes in the digital SAT compared to the old format involve the Reading & Writing section becoming a unified whole and adjustments to the Math section: Reading & Writing Section: Math Section: In short, the digital SAT streamlines these sections, requiring students to analyze reading passages critically and apply that analysis to writing, while emphasizing reasoning and problem-solving skills in math. Overall, the digital SAT sections aim to be more efficient and assess the critical thinking skills needed for college success. SAT Math Section Changes : The Mathematics section contains 2 modules. There are 23 operational and 2 pretest questions in each module. The total time allotted for the Mathematics section is 70 minutes, with 35 minutes for each module. Now in the Digital SAT, the calculator has already been added to the SAT Exam Window so you can use the calculator any time during the Digital SAT Exam. You will find the exam structure in detail in the table given below: SAT Digital Exam Timing Breakdown : Total Time: The entire digital SAT exam takes 2 hours and 14 minutes, which is significantly shorter than the traditional paper-and-pencil version (3 hours). Section Breakdown: Additional Points: Remember, this time breakdown is an average, and it's important to develop a pacing strategy that works for you. Practice tests under timed conditions can help you get comfortable with the timing and develop your approach to each section. New Digital SAT Format : Here's a breakdown of the timing for the digital SAT exam: Total Time: The entire digital SAT exam takes 2 hours and 14 minutes, which is significantly shorter than the traditional paper-and-pencil version (3 hours). Additional Points: Remember, this time breakdown is an average, and it's important to develop a pacing strategy that works for you. Practice tests under timed conditions can help you get comfortable with the timing and develop your approach to each section. Topics Tested SAT Digital Exam Dates 2024 : With the transition to Digital SAT, students can expect faster score releases and a more streamlined testing experience. Despite these changes, certain aspects, such as scoring range and accommodation options for students with disabilities, remain unchanged. As students gear up for the new era of SAT testing, it's crucial to stay informed about the latest updates and adjustments in preparation strategies. For more information on SAT Digital preparation tips and sample papers, check out our comprehensive guide. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to leave a comment below. Is New SAT Better or Old SAT? A Comprehensive Guide
Areas of Difference
Old SAT Exam
New Digital SAT Exam
Mode of Administration
On Paper
Online
Duration of Test
3 hours
2 hours 14 minutes
Test Availability for International Students
Upto 2022
2023 Onwards
Test Availability for US Students
Upto 2023
2024 Onwards
SAT Reading & Writing Section Syllabus
Various sections
Combined section with 64 minutes total duration
SAT Math Section Syllabus
Two sections, one without calculator
Single Math section with calculators allowed
DIGITAL SAT EXAM STRUCTURE
Section
Mathematics
Test length
Module 1: 20 operational questions and 2 pretest questions
Module 2: 20 operational questions and 2 pretest questions
Time per module
Module 1: 35 minutes and Module 2: 35 minutes
Number of questions
44 questions
Total time
70 minutes
SAT Test Date
Registration Deadline
Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation,
and Late RegistrationFormat
Mar 9, 2024
February 23, 2024
March 22- 29, 2024
Digital
May 4, 2024
April 19, 2024
May 17-24, 2024
Digital
June 1, 2024
May 16, 2024
June 14- 21, 2024
Digital
August 24, 2023
August 8, 2023
September 6-14, 2024
Digital
October 5, 2024
September 20, 2024
October 18-25, 2024
Digital
November 2, 2024
October 18, 2024
November 15-22, 2024
Digital
December 7, 2024
November 22, 2024
December 20-27, 2024
Digital