SAT Test Day Checklist: What to Bring

For the digital SAT, you must bring a fully charged, approved device with the Bluebook™ app installed and your exam setup completed. You’ll also need your admission ticket and an acceptable photo ID. College Board’s official list includes: a fully charged device, admission ticket (generated in Bluebook), acceptable photo ID, a power cord/portable charger, and pen/pencil for scratch work; an approved handheld calculator is optional because Bluebook has a built-in one. }

Admission ticket timing

Your admission ticket is available in Bluebook about five days before test day after you complete the short exam setup. You can print it, photograph it, or email it to yourself.

Identification (India & international centres)

At international test centres, passport is the standard ID. College Board’s ID policy requires a physical (not digital) acceptable ID matching your ticket name. Some countries/centres allow local IDs; always confirm against College Board’s ID page and your centre’s instructions.

Smart extras

• Printed ticket and a soft copy on your phone (hand the phone in before testing).
• Wired earphones are not used; avoid bringing Bluetooth audio devices (prohibited).
• Water and a light snack for the break (keep outside your desk).
• Backup calculator batteries if you use a handheld (optional).

When to Arrive and How Check-In Works

Plan to arrive by 7:45 a.m. (earlier if borrowing a device). You’ll be checked in, your ID verified, and then guided to a waiting/common area before you are moved to the testing room.

Digital Setup in the Room (Bluebook & Wi-Fi)

Once seated, you’ll hand over your phone to the proctor, connect your device to Wi-Fi, open Bluebook, and complete final steps. There’s usually ~10 minutes for setup; if anything doesn’t work, signal the proctor/IT immediately. Bluebook must be downloaded before test day; the quick exam setup occurs 1–5 days prior and generates your admission ticket.

Critical Test-Room Rules (Don’t Risk Cancellation)

• Bluebook only. Close other apps and don’t try to switch out of the testing app. Leaving Bluebook or using prohibited devices violates SAT testing rules and can result in score cancellation. Review the latest Testing Rules before test day.
• Start promptly. Begin as soon as the proctor gives the passcode. If you start late, other students may finish Reading & Writing and go on break while you’re still working—distracting and avoidable.
• Phones are stored. Your phone must be turned in to the proctor and kept away from your desk during testing.

Using the 10-Minute Break Wisely

When the Reading & Writing section ends, you’ll have a short break before Math. Don’t discuss your performance with others. Instead:

• Use the restroom, hydrate, and—if you’re used to it—take a small dose of caffeine.
• Mentally reset; whatever happened in R&W is over. Your only job now is to execute on Math.
• Be considerate—don’t disturb others who may still be finishing.

Math Game Plan: Module-by-Module

The digital SAT Math has two modules. Your performance in Module 1 determines the difficulty of Module 2.

Module 1

• If you finish early, use the time to review—ideally three passes (careless-error sweep, calculation re-check, then quick scan for flagged items).
• Request extra scratch paper while you have breathing room.

Module 2

• Expect it to feel tighter if you did well in Module 1. Avoid long stalls; make quick triage decisions and keep moving.
• Use the on-screen Desmos calculator or your approved handheld—whichever keeps you fastest and most accurate.

After the Test: Scores, Retakes, and Next Steps

When the test ends, collect your phone and belongings and exit quietly. For weekend administrations, most students receive scores in about 2–3 weeks (often around 10 business days); check the official score release page for exact windows.

Thinking about a retake? If you suspect a bad day, don’t wait for scores to register—SAT registration deadlines can pass quickly. Pick your next target date and register now. For long-range planning (especially juniors), here’s a handy list of upcoming India test dates: SAT dates 2026–27 (India).

Quick SAT Test Day FAQ

Do I need to print my admission ticket?

Printed is preferred, but you can also show the ticket from Bluebook on your phone during check-in (your phone is then stored).

Which ID should I carry in India?

Carry your passport for international test centres. Some locations may accept other government IDs—always verify against College Board’s current ID requirements before test day.

What happens if Bluebook or Wi-Fi acts up?

Raise your hand and alert the proctor/IT immediately. You’re given time at the start to ensure everything is working; use it.

Can I keep apps open in the background?

No. Run only Bluebook. Switching out of the app or using prohibited devices can violate testing rules and risk score cancellation.

When will I get my SAT scores?

Typically within 2–3 weeks of the test date for weekend administrations; see the official release windows for your test.