SAT Prep FAQs

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SAT College Specifics

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Navigating the SAT today can feel like a full-time job for parents. With the recent shift to a fully digital format, many long-held beliefs about the test have changed.

What is the "Digital SAT" and how is it different?
The SAT is now fully digital and shorter, lasting 2 hours and 14 minutes instead of 3 hours. It uses "adaptive" testing, meaning the difficulty of the second module in each section changes based on your child's performance in the first.
Does my child need their own computer?
Students can use their own laptop/tablet, a school-issued device, or request a loaner from the College Board at least 30 days before the test. The test is taken via the Bluebook app.
How many times should they take it?
The College Board recommends taking it at least twice—typically in the spring of junior year and fall of senior year. Prep usually works best after a first "baseline" score.
What is "superscoring"?
Many colleges "superscore," meaning they take the highest Math and highest Reading/Writing scores from different test dates to create a new, higher total score.
Can I register for my child?
No. Registration must be done through your child’s personal College Board account to ensure the scores are correctly linked to them.
Is the SAT better than the ACT?
Most colleges are "agnostic" and accept both equally. We recommend at least trying each once to see what the student's preference is.
What is a "good" score?
A "good" score depends entirely on the colleges your child is targeting. You can find average score ranges on individual college admissions websites.
Are calculators still allowed?
Yes, for the entire Math section. Students can bring an approved calculator or use the built-in Desmos graphing calculator within the testing app.
When do scores come back?
Digital scores are typically released 2 to 3 weeks after the test date.
How should they prepare?
With us at ACE Test Prep!!