When you register for the SAT®, you must follow certain rules and regulations to maintain the test's integrity. To provide fair opportunities, the College Board® has developed security measures for the benefit of all test-takers. Remember that any violation of these policies may lead to the cancellation of your SAT scores, and you may even be banned from taking the test.
SAT Testing Policies
The College Board requires you to acknowledge, understand, and follow these SAT testing policies:
- A valid photo ID meeting all the ID requirements and guidelines. The name on your ID must match the name on your admission ticket.
- Engaging in impersonating others or asking someone to impersonate you is prohibited.
- Sharing or discussing questions and answers during and after the test via any form of communication is strictly prohibited.
- Your scores will be canceled if you leave the test center before the test ends.
- You need to adhere to the time scheduled for every section. Skipping or switching between sections is not allowed.
- It is prohibited to consult textbooks or use electronic devices (except your SAT testing device) or other resources during breaks or while taking the test.
- Bluebook™ includes a built-in graphing calculator for use during the Math section. You may also bring an acceptable calculator, as outlined below. No other calculators are allowed.
Get fully prepared for the exam with our all-in-one SAT prep course. It includes a comprehensive study guide and an extensive question bank packed with exam-style questions.
Security Measures
The College Board upholds the SAT scoring ethics in the following ways:
- Reporting test prep companies and individuals to law enforcement and other government agencies if they are suspected of stealing test content.
- Collaborating with schools and colleges to find effective ways of informing them if their students are found engaging in unfair practices.
- Increasing the audits of the test centers worldwide.
- Making it easier for educators and students to report a suspected cheating event in an anonymous and confidential manner.
- Expanding the criteria for debarring individuals from taking the SAT for reasons other than its intended purposes.
Consequences of Violating Security Policies
Any violation of SAT rules and regulations may result in the following consequences:
- You may be denied entry to or dismissed from the test center.
- Your scores may be canceled, and you may be banned from taking the SAT in the future. The duration of this ban is completely dependent on the discretion of the College Board.
- Information regarding banned test takers and penalties may be shared with their high schools, prospective colleges, parents, and guardians.
SAT Cancellation Policy
The College Board charges a nominal fee depending on when you cancel the exam.
- If you cancel before the change deadline, the fee is $29.
- If you cancel after the change deadline but before 11:59 p.m. ET on the Thursday before test day, the fee is $39.
Sign in to your “My SAT” account to cancel your test registration. After the cancellation, you will need to register again to take the test at a later date.
SAT Calculator Policy
The College Board allows you to use a calculator during the Math test, but there are some restrictions on the type of calculator you can use. Not adhering to the rules presented in the SAT calculator policy may lead to dismissal and cancellation of scores.
Calculator Rules
When using a calculator for your SAT, make sure to follow the guidelines listed below:
- Delete any programs that allow symbolic algebra manipulation (factoring, solving equations).
- Remove stored documents or notes.
- Turn off all sound; mute settings are not sufficient.
- Cover infrared/data ports with opaque tape if present.
- Calculators with QWERTY or typewriter-style keyboards are not permitted under any condition.
Additionally, calculators are not permitted during the Reading and Writing section and must be put away. If you use a calculator to share information, remove test questions, or capture answers at any point during the test, you will be dismissed and your scores will be canceled.
Approved SAT Calculators (Updated 2025)
The SAT permits the use of non-CAS (Computer Algebra System) calculators. You may also use the built-in Desmos Graphing Calculator available in the Bluebook testing app. If you prefer to bring a personal device, it must meet the following guidelines:
- Must be battery-operated and handheld
- Must not include CAS functionality
- No stylus input, wireless connectivity or QWERT keyboards
Remember that you might be banned from taking the exam if you carry a calculator that is not approved by the College Board. Check out the approved calculators list below:
| Casio | Hewlett-Packard | Texas Instruments | Sharp | Others |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FX-9750GII | HP-9G | TI-73 | EL-5200 | NumWorks |
| FX-9860GII | HP-38G | TI-80 to TI-86 | EL-9200 series | Desmos (built-in) |
| FX-CG10 | HP-39G series (excluding CAS models) | TI-83/84/Plus/CE models (except CAS) | EL-9300 series | Datexx DS-883 |
| FX-CG20 | TI-Nspire (non-CAS only) | EL-9900 | Micronta | |
| FX-CG50 | ||||
| FX-7400GII | ||||
| FX-7700 series |
Please note that while models not listed here may be permitted if they clearly lack CAS features and comply with the SAT calculator policy, it's best to consult the College Board's official calculator list to be sure. You can also review commonly used and best calculators for SAT preparation to better understand which ones are practical and compliant.
SAT Test Device Policies
You will need a laptop or tablet that connects to Wi-Fi for the SAT. Permitted devices include:
- Windows: laptop or tablet (personal or school-managed)
- Mac: laptop or iPad (personal or school-managed)
- Chromebook: laptop (school-managed only)
Be sure to check for notifications by the College Board to ensure you install the most current compatible operating system and version of the Bluebook app ahead of your test date. If you need to borrow a device, remember to submit your request to the College Board or talk to your school test administrator before the deadline. Same-day requests for a device loan will not be considered. There may not be outlets available for charging, so be sure to charge your device up fully so it will last for at least 3 hours.
While the test is in progress, you cannot use any other program or application. Pasting work from another program is prohibited. Doing so may lead to the cancellation of your scores. The only exception is if you have received approval for testing accommodations through the College Board Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) and possess an SSD Student Accommodations Letter, allowing the use of approved assistive technology.
Additionally, there are a few important test device restrictions set up by the College Board that you should be aware of. You are forbidden to use:
- A second computer or any other electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets, smartwatches, or wearables.
- Any application other than Bluebook – the testing app.
- Privacy screens for the device you'll take your test with.
Prohibited calculator features include:
- Internet connectivity, wireless, cellular, Bluetooth, audio/video recording, playback, camera, or smartphone-like capabilities.
- QWERTY keypad, stylus, or pen input.
- Use of electrical outlets, audibility, or paper tape.
The test administration will take and keep mobile phones and other electronic devices that aren't allowed, or you'll have to put them in a backpack away from your desk during the test and breaks.
Violations of Device Policy
If you are caught with any prohibited electronic device or if your device is found making noise at any time, the test center's administrative staff reserves the right to confiscate it. You may also be dismissed from the test center with your scores canceled.
SAT Test Accommodations
To ensure fairness and impartiality for every individual, the College Board provides special provisions called SAT accommodations for those with documented disabilities and lets the students take the test with some modifications.
Who Is Allowed to Request Accommodations?
If you have a documented disability that affects your SAT participation, you are eligible to request accommodations from the College Board. The type of documentation required may differ depending on the disability and the accommodation requested. Some examples of disabilities include:
- Visual impairments and blindness
- Physical and medical impairments
- Learning disorders
- Motor impairments
You must note that temporary medical or physical conditions, such as a broken bone, are usually not considered disabilities and do not qualify for SAT accommodations. For temporary medical conditions, students are usually advised to reschedule the test. However, you can still request temporary assistance from your SSD coordinator.
What Accommodations Are Allowed on the SAT?
It is important to understand that the need for accommodations may vary depending on the disability. If you have a documented disability, you can get the accommodations you need from the College Board. SAT accommodations include the following provisions:
Students with approved extended time (time and a half, double time, or more) can move to the next test section once standard testing time has passed. Extended time is provided only for sections where it’s needed, such as Math or Reading, based on the student’s approved accommodations. During SAT Weekend, students with approval for breaks as needed will complete testing in a single day at a test center.
Students with documented disabilities may qualify for additional or longer breaks during the exam. Accommodations include extra breaks (standard 5-minute breaks at scheduled times), extended breaks (longer than standard breaks, automatically scheduled), and breaks as needed (flexible breaks for medical conditions, activated via a Pause button). The Bluebook platform manages these accommodations seamlessly, ensuring you receive the appropriate break durations, including additional breaks and a longer nutrition break for extended time testing.
- Braille: Students with the braille accommodation will utilize their personal refreshable braille display or screen reader for the test. Headphones are required for screen reader users. In case testing is impractical, a paper braille test can be requested. Additionally, students will combine the test with the raised line drawing supplement for raised line drawings (formerly “braille graphs and figures”). If taking the test, braille writing software should be used; otherwise, a paper test can be requested.
- Human and Screen Readers: Students granted the accommodation of a human reader or screen reader will utilize the screen reader functionality provided by their device’s operating system or their own screen reader software for the test. They will receive a test format that includes time and one-half (+50%) extended time. If testing is not possible, students should contact customer service to request a paper test.
- Writer/Scribe and dictation: Students with approved accommodations for writer/scribe or dictation will use the test with speech-to-text functionality.
- Large Print, Magnification, Color: For accessing large-print test and large-print answer sheets, students can utilize the zoom in and out function on their operating system. To improve color overlay/color contrast, they can adjust the color settings on their device or use a plastic overlay on the screen.
- Pre-recorded Audio: Students granted the prerecorded audio accommodation will utilize the screen reader functionality provided by their device’s operating system or their own screen reader software for the digital test. They will also have time and one-half (+50%) extended time for their test.
- Auditory Amplification/FM System can be accessed by students through headphones.
This accommodation is provided to students with disabilities that impact their ability to record responses due to visual and physical disabilities and dysgraphia. Accommodations may include large print answer sheets or a computer for word processing.
4-Function calculators are allowed but not recommended for SAT Math because they lack the ability to handle exponents, roots, trigonometric functions, or plotting; tools essential for most SAT questions. Use a scientific or graphic calculator if available.
Students can take a digital test using approved assistive technology software. If approved for an ATC test format, they can use standard digital test tools and functionality provided by their device’s operating system.
Other provisions may include small group settings, preferential seating, school-based or one-to-one settings, wheelchair accessibility, etc.
How to Get SAT Accommodations
To take the SAT with accommodations, the College Board's Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) needs to approve your documents. The SSD department handles all student accommodation requests and provides you with the best options according to your documented disability. You can request accommodations in two ways:
Through your school
Contact your school's SSD coordinator and get the Consent Form filled out by your parents or guardians. The SSD coordinator raises the accommodation request, fills out details about the disability, and gathers information about the accommodation plans. The SSD coordinator will inform you what documentation needs to be submitted and notify you about the SSD decision letter.
Directly to SSD
If you are homeschooled, or your school cannot access SSD online or your family does not wish to involve the school in requesting accommodations, you can submit your request directly to SSD. Once you know what type of accommodation you need, you can fill out the student eligibility form with all the required details, and submit the required documents. You can mail, fax, or email your documents to SSD. Once the decision is made, the SSD will inform you.
How Long is the Digital SAT with Accommodations?
When applying for extended time and additional breaks for your SAT, the exact duration of the test may vary, as the College Board has not specified specific time increments for extended time. It's recommended to refer to the latest information provided by the College Board for accurate details on the test duration with extended time accommodations.
Deadline for Requesting Accommodations
Requesting Digital SAT accommodations is a lengthy process. It is always good to send requests well in advance as it can take up to 7 weeks for approval. Refer to the list below to check the last day of raising requests for the upcoming Digital SAT.
| SAT School Day Test Dates (2025) |
Accommodation Request Deadline |
|---|---|
| March 3-7, 2025 | Jan. 13, 2025 |
| March 10-14, 2025 | Jan. 21, 2025 |
| March 17-21, 2025 | Jan. 27, 2025 |
| March 24-28, 2025 | Feb. 3, 2025 |
| March 31-April 4, 2025 | Feb. 10, 2025 |
| April 7-11, 2025 | Feb. 18, 2025 |
| April 14-18, 2025 | Feb. 24, 2025 |
| April 21-25, 2025 | March 3, 2025 |
| April 28-30, 2025 | March 10, 2025 |
Many schools offer SAT School Day, allowing you to take the SAT on a weekday at your school. For SAT School Day, you do not need to register for the test through the College Board. The SAT School Day is only available to U.S. schools. The schools and districts decide whether to offer it or if students should pay the test fee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I print my SAT admission ticket?
Sign in to the Exam App, Bluebook using your College Board online account username and password, agree to the “Privacy Policy and Use of This App” rules, and finalize the exam setup. Your admission ticket will be generated by the Exam App upon completion of the exam setup.
What if I don't remember my username or password?
If you do not remember your username or password, visit the College Board website “Sign In” page and click “Need Help Signing In”.
- Click on choose the “Forgot Password” option. Enter your email address and click on “Email Reset Link”.
- Click on the “Get help migrating your account” option and click on the “Forgot Username” option.
What if I don't remember the email attached to my College Board account and can't retrieve my username or password?
If you encounter such a scenario, call the College Board’s customer service at 866-315-6068, and they will help you resolve the issue.
Can you get extra time on the SAT? If a student is approved for extra time, how long will they have for their SAT test?
Extended time accommodations are provided to students with documented disabilities.
If a student needs more than 1 accommodation, do I have to apply for each individually?
No. The request for multiple accommodations can only be placed through 1 application. However, you need to request each accommodation specifically and provide the supporting documentation for each type.
If the student has an IEP (Individualized Education Program) or 504 plan in place, do they still need to submit a request for accommodation?
Yes. You must request the required accommodations with the supporting documentation, even if you have an IEP or 504 plan.
What can I do if I miss the deadline for an accommodation request?
You should make the request as soon as possible. Even if you do not get a decision letter about the request in time for your test, you can use the approved accommodation for future SAT tests.
I have a disability. How do I apply for extended time on my SAT?
You need to submit an accommodation request, specifically mentioning that you require extended time, and submit the supporting documents for your disability. You can also talk to your school’s SSD coordinator for any help that you need.
Can you get SAT accommodations for anxiety?
General anxiety disorder qualifies as a documented psychological condition. Therefore, if your anxiety has a detrimental impact on your test-taking process — slowing you down or hindering your ability to complete the SAT within the allocated time — you are eligible to request additional time accommodations.
Will colleges see if I took the SAT with disability accommodation?
To protect students’ privacy, the score report sent to colleges does not indicate that the test was taken with accommodations.
References
- (2024). Section 1. Taking the SAT. SAT Suite of Assessments.College Board. Retrieved April 16, 2025, from https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/terms-conditions#sec-01
- (2024). Using Accommodations. SAT Suite of Assessments. College Board. Retrieved April 16, 2025, from https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/accommodations/using-accommodations
Related Articles
Want to dive deeper into the SAT? Explore this guide to get a more in-depth understanding of the test, including its history, format, and tips to maximize your score.
SAT ScoringWondering how the SAT scores are calculated? Read this scoring guide to learn insights like how different SAT sections are scored and their impact. Click to learn more!
SAT Format & SectionsReady to explore the SAT further? This guide offers an extensive look into the new format, including its sections, question types, and strategies to conquer each part of the test.
SAT Test DatesPlanning to take the SAT this year? Start your test preparation well ahead of the test dates. Here are all the details you need to know about the upcoming SAT and their schedule.
