What To Bring to the SAT Test: Packing for Success
Keith N.
Graduate of UC Berkeley & UC Santa Cruz
Summary
Preparing for the SAT can feel like a whirlwind, but making sure you have everything you need on test day can help alleviate some of that anxiety. Being properly prepared helps you feel you avoid any last-minute issues that could prevent you from taking the test. Plus, you'll be more confident on test day! This is why we’ve created this detailed guide on what to bring to the SAT and what to leave at home!
What To Bring on SAT Test Day - Overview
While similar to the ACT or PSAT, the SAT has its own test requirements, and its own list of items that you can bring to the test.
Keeping in mind that the SAT is now fully digital, here's a full overview of all the things are required to bring to the Digital SATs, as well as things that are allowed but not essential for everyone, and items that are strictly prohibited.
What to Bring to the SAT
| Essential | Allowed | Prohibited |
|---|---|---|
| Charged testing device with the Bluebook™ application | A watch without an audible alarm | Mobile phones (Must be collected or stored away from desks) |
| Admission Ticket | A charging cable or portable charger | Smartwatches, fitness trackers, or other wearable technology (simple digital non-smartwatches or analog watches are acceptable) |
| Acceptable photo ID | A bag or backpack | Audio players or recorders, notebooks, Bluetooth devices (such as wireless earbuds/headphones), or any other personal computing devices not used as the actual or backup testing device |
| Pencils or pens for scratch work | A drink or snacks (for your break) | Cameras or any other photographic equipment |
| Your College Board username and password | A backup testing device. | Separate timers of any type |
| An acceptable calculator for use on the Math section of the test | - | Highlighters or colored pencils |
| Epinephrine auto-injectors (like EpiPens) if needed are permitted without the need for accommodations | - | Books or references of any kind except as approved as an English language learner support for in-school administrations |
| - | - | Compasses, rulers, protractors, or cutting devices |
| - | - | Papers of any kind, including scratch paper |
| - | - | Earplugs |
| - | - | Unacceptable calculators that have computer-style (QWERTY) keyboards, use paper tape, make noise, or use a power cord |
| - | - | Privacy screens |
| - | - | Weapons or firearms |
The Essentials To Bring on SAT Test Day
1. Your Fully Charged Testing Device
Make sure to bring your fully charged testing device with the Bluebook™ application installed and your exam setup completed. This is crucial since the SAT is administered digitally. Having your device fully charged and ready to go can help prevent technical issues that might disrupt your test.
Things to keep in mind:
- Double-check The College Board's device requirements to ensure compatibility and functionality.
- Some schools or testing centers might provide the devices themselves. Check your testing center’s policy!
- Charge your device a day before and ensure it’s fully charged on test day!
2. Your Up-to-Date Admission Ticket
Your admission ticket is required for entry into the testing center, and you may not be allowed to sit the exam without it! Print your ticket in advance, and make sure you have it with your other test essentials on test day!
The admission ticket becomes available five days before the test after you complete the exam setup, so make sure to print it out as soon as it’s available.
Things to keep in mind:
- You can access and print your ticket from the Bluebook app
- It’s recommended you bring a printed copy of your ticket, but it can be presented digitally
- The admission ticket is available 5 days before the test
3. Acceptable Photo ID
An acceptable photo ID is mandatory to verify your identity at the testing center. Make sure your ID is up to date and matches the name you used to register for the SAT.
Acceptable forms of ID include a driver’s license, passport, or school ID, among others. Without proper identification, you may not be allowed to take the test.
You can check The College Board’s SAT ID requirements here
4. Pencils or Pens for Scratch Work
Bring a few pencils or pens to use for scratch work during the test. While the SAT is digital, you may need to jot down notes or solve problems on paper. Mechanical pencils are usually not recommended, so stick to traditional wooden pencils.
5. Your College Board Username and Password
Having your College Board username and password on hand is important to log into the testing application, so make sure you remember your credentials and have them readily accessible to avoid any delays or issues during the test.
6. An Acceptable Calculator
You’re allowed to use an acceptable calculator for the Math section of the SAT. While the Bluebook application provides an embedded graphing calculator, bringing your own can be beneficial. Make sure your calculator meets the SAT requirements and is fully functional on test day.
Things to Keep In Mind:
- Sharing calculators is not allowed
- Check The College Board’s calculator policy
7. Epinephrine Auto-Injectors (EpiPens) if Required
If you require an epinephrine auto-injector (like an EpiPen), you can bring it without needing special accommodations. Ensure it’s placed in a clear bag and stored under your desk during the test.
For other medications and medical devices, contact the College Board in advance to make the necessary arrangements.
What Happens if You Don’t Bring Your SAT Essentials?
Without your photo ID, admission ticket, and College Board username and password, you may be denied entry to the testing center and not allowed to take the exam. In that case, you'll have to schedule another sitting and retake the SAT exam at a later date.
The SAT is a challenging test, and without other essentials like your pen and paper, the math section might be very difficult to get through. Note-taking is important during the exam, especially for complex questions!
What NOT To Bring on SAT Test Days
1. Mobile Phones and Wearable Technology
Mobile phones are allowed only for presenting the admission ticket at check-in. Afterward, they must be collected or stored away from the desks.
Don't bring smartwatches, fitness trackers, or other wearable technology. Simple digital non-smartwatches or analog watches are acceptable, but smart devices are strictly prohibited.
2. Audio Players and Bluetooth Devices
Don't bring audio players, recorders, Bluetooth devices like wireless earbuds or headphones, or any personal computing devices that are not your testing device. These items are not permitted in the testing area - leave them at home!
3. Separate Timers
Separate timers of any type are not allowed. The testing device will manage all timing requirements, so additional timers are unnecessary and prohibited.
4. Cameras and Photographic Equipment
Cameras or any other photographic equipment are not permitted in the testing area. Leave these items at home to avoid any issues during check-in.
5. Highlighters and Colored Pencils
Highlighters or colored pencils are not allowed. Stick to regular pencils or pens for scratch work and note-taking.
6. Books and References
Books or any reference materials are not permitted unless specifically approved as an English language learner support for in-school administrations. Make sure to leave these items at home.
7. Mathematical Tools
Compasses, rulers, protractors, or any cutting devices are not allowed in the testing center. You can only bring your acceptable calculator for the Math section.
8. Papers and Earplugs
Do not bring any papers, including scratch paper, as they are not permitted. Additionally, earplugs are not allowed. The testing environment will be maintained to minimize distractions, so earplugs are unnecessary.
9. Unacceptable Calculators
Calculators that have computer-style (QWERTY) keyboards, use paper tape, make noise, or use a power cord are not allowed. Ensure your calculator meets the SAT standards.
10. Privacy Screens
Privacy screens for your testing device are not allowed. Make sure your device screen is visible and clear for proctors to monitor.
11. Weapons or Firearms
Weapons or firearms of any kind are strictly prohibited in the testing center.
Can I Bring Items That Are Not on the List?
If you have a documented disability, you can request exceptional accommodations in advance. Upon approval, you’ll be able to bring items not on the standard list. Contact the College Board’s Services for Students with Disabilities in advance to discuss and arrange these accommodations well before test day.
Other Reminders Before Taking the SATs
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
A good night’s sleep is your best friend before test day. It helps you stay sharp and focused. Think of it like the eve of a big game — you want to be at your best.
Getting a good night's sleep help you remember everything you studied for - so if you're aiming for that perfect SAT score, don't pull an all-nighter!
Be Comfortable and Leave Lots of Time
Dress comfortably, in layers, so you can adjust if it’s too hot or cold. Arrive by the test time! (plan to arrive twenty minutes early for good measure). Do a practice run to the test center beforehand if you’re unsure of the location. Better safe than sorry!
Breaks During the Test
You’ll get a 15-minute break after the math test. Use this time to stretch and have an energizing snack. Remember, no electronic devices during breaks! Do your best to do whatever little bit of self-care you can during any breaks!
Final Thoughts
Being thoroughly prepared for SAT test day is essential for ensuring a smooth and successful testing experience. By bringing the necessary items and leaving prohibited items at home, you can avoid potential setbacks and focus entirely on performing your best.
Remember to check all requirements ahead of time, pack your bag the night before, and get a good night’s sleep. With careful preparation, you'll walk into the testing center confident and ready to excel.
If you need help preparing and studying for the SATs to maximize your chances of getting the perfect score, our expert tutors can help and include some of the best test tutors in the world! For more information on boosting test scores and and taking the guesswork out of your university journey, schedule a free feedback session with us to talk about your goals and to learn how you can increase the odds for getting into your top-choice school.