SAT Testing Announced to be Going Digital

Within the past few years, SAT testing has drastically changed. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been an impact, with many colleges and universities making both SAT and ACT testing optional for applications. Now, College Board is announcing a new change that will change the way the SAT will be given for years: in a digital format.

The new SAT suite has begun being introduced to students around the country, and the test itself has been met with many changes, having been adapted to be shorter and more streamlined than its paper counterpart and to help students be more prepared for college.

According to a press release published by College Board in January 2022, the new Digital SAT will, “to reflect the range of paths that students take after high school… connect students to information and resources about local two-year college, workforce training programs, and career options.” College Board also stated that the new digital SAT suite aims to reduce the risk of cheating and stolen booklets among students, allowing for more academic honesty.

“I think the new format will increase student participation,” said John Westra, head of the guidance department at Penn. “… With so many colleges offering ‘test optional’ admissions, the number of students electing to take standardized tests have decreased. With the changes, I’m hoping they are looking to bring some students back who might have avoided it originally.”

“The state of Indiana has replaced ISTEP testing at the high school level with the digital SAT. Any improvements that the College Board makes will be beneficial for our students,” stated the director of Penn’s testing center David Hall.

The digital SAT will be an option for those who are taking the SAT this March at both testing events available at the school.