SAT Test Day Checklist: Bluebook Setup and What to Bring

Test day failures are often logistics, not content: Bluebook not installed, a dead battery, or the wrong ID. Use this checklist a few days before your Digital SAT date.

For calculator use during the Math section, see how to use Desmos on the Digital SAT.

One week out

• Confirm test date, time, and location in your College Board account.
• Install or update Bluebook on the laptop or tablet you will use. Supported devices are listed on College Board's Bluebook page.
• Run Bluebook's exam setup (device check, permissions, any required update). Do not wait until the morning of the test.
• Take a full practice test in Bluebook if you have not recently. Open the built-in calculator on at least a few Math questions so the interface is familiar.

Night before

• Charge your device; plug it in overnight if you can.
• Pack your bag: photo ID, admission ticket, charger, optional approved calculator, snack for the break (if your center allows it outside the room).
• Set two alarms if you are not taking the test at school.
• Know the route and parking or drop-off; aim to arrive early.

Morning of

• Eat something you tolerate on a long morning sitting.
• Bring ID that matches registration (name spelling, photo requirements per College Board).
• Power on the device before check-in; close apps you do not need.
• Follow proctor instructions for storing phones, watches, and bags.

During the test you will use Bluebook's timer, mark-for-review, and question menu. Reading & Writing comes first, then a short break, then Math with the Desmos calculator available on every Math question.

In the room

• Listen to the proctor for start codes and timing; do not open Bluebook until instructed if that is what your center uses.
• Use mark-for-review instead of leaving blanks you intend to return to without flagging.
• Keep your admission ticket accessible if staff ask to verify again.

If something fails (device crash, app error), raise your hand immediately. Proctors and College Board have procedures for technology issues; do not try to fix hardware alone during the timed section.

After the test

• Scores for the Digital SAT usually return within days, faster than the old paper turnaround.
• When scores arrive, read the full report—not just the total—and decide whether a retake is worth it. See SAT superscore and retakes and how to read your score report.

Quick pack list

Policies change; verify test-day rules on College Board before each administration.