As our students prepare to take the SAT or ACT, they often ask if they are allowed to take it on their own laptop or tablet. The answer is yes – both the SAT and the ACT now allow you to take the exam on your personal device. Recently, one of our students shared that being unprepared on the tech side, left them unable to participate in a recent exam. So, we thought we would offer some advice on how to prepare to take these tests digitally.
Quick Guide to Help You Get Ready to Take the SAT or SAT on Your Computer or Laptop
1. Check That Your Device Meets SAT/ACT Requirements
While the SAT and ACT have their own unique requirements, generally you can use a Windows laptop, MacBook, Chromebook, or approved tablet, provided it meets the test maker’s tech specs. Before you even register, check:
• Operating system version
• Available storage
• Ability to install the testing app (SAT = Bluebook; ACT = its secure app)
• Battery life
Do this in advance. If your computer or tablet isn’t compatible, you want to know well before test day, not on the morning you arrive like our student.
2. Charge Your Device (Seriously, Don’t Skip This)
Testing rooms have limited outlets, and you’re expected to show up with a fully charged device that can last the entire exam. Take the time to charge your device the night before your test date and bring the following with you to the test:
• Your charger
• A portable battery pack if allowed
• A device with background apps closed to save power
Running out of battery is one of the most avoidable test-day problems.
3. Install the Testing App Early
This is a must. The SAT uses Bluebook; the ACT uses its own secure browser. You may use the app to:
• Download your test
• Access your admission ticket
• Practice using sample questions
• Lock down your device during the exam
Install the app at least a week before your test. Sometimes devices need updates or extra storage, and you want time to troubleshoot. Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today!
4. Get Comfortable With the SAT / ACT’s Digital Tools
Both tests come with built-in features that can actually make your life easier, including:
• A countdown timer
• Highlighter and mark-for-review tools
• On-screen calculator (SAT uses Desmos)
• Adjustable font size
These tools are great, but only if you’ve practiced with them. Consider completing at least one full-length digital practice test so the layout feels familiar.
5. Don’t Stress Too Much Your Computer’s Wi-Fi Connection
Good news: the tests are built to handle spotty internet.
• SAT’s Bluebook works mostly offline and uploads when you’re done.
• ACT’s digital system can keep going if your connection drops temporarily, but is more reliant on Wi-Fi than the SAT
You will still need to connect at the start and end, so make sure your device can reliably pick up Wi-Fi. If you will be testing at your own high school, test your connectivity ahead of time so if you need to get your hands on a more reliable device you can.
6. If You’re Not Comfortable Using Your Own Computer, You Can Request a Loaner
• Every test center has devices for students who:
• Don’t have a compatible laptop or tablet
• Prefer not to use their own
• Run into last-minute tech issues
• Make your request right away/ahead of time. Availability varies and you do not want to wait too long to ask.
7. What to Expect on Test Day
• Digital testing comes with a few extra steps:
• Arrive early for device check-in
• Bring your photo ID, admission ticket, and charger
• Be ready to log in using codes from the proctor
• Expect a quick screen check before you start
This is all pretty straightforward, but it is different from the paper days – so be prepared.
Bottom Line on Taking the SAT or ACT Digitally
• Taking the SAT or ACT on your own computer or tablet can feel more comfortable and offers helpful digital tools, but the tradeoff is that you’re responsible for the tech setup. The students who feel calmest on test day are the ones who:
• Check their computer or laptop early
• Install the testing app in advance
• Practice in the digital format
We always advise our students to control what you can by taking the time to prepare well ahead of time.
Looking for help with the college search and application process? We help students and families through the entire college planning journey – from search, applications and essays to interview prep, financial aid consultation and final school selection.
Contact us at info@signaturecollegecounseling.com or by phone, 845.551.6946. We work with students through Zoom, over the phone and by email.
