After all that planning, study nights, and preparation, the big SAT day is here! But what do you actually need to bring with you, and what should you leave behind? Knowing what to bring to the SAT is key to being fully prepared and staying calm on test day.
Let’s go over the must-haves for the SAT, plus a few items you might not think of but could be super helpful. Pack your bag ahead of time so you can walk in feeling calm and ready, without worrying about last-minute things like finding a pencil sharpener!
- The Essentials: What You Should Prepare
- Optional Things to Prepare and Bring
- Things You Should Leave at Home
- How to Get Ready the Night before the SAT
- What to Expect on SAT Test Day
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
The Essentials: What You Should Prepare
Just like any big standardized test, the SAT comes with its own set of rules for test day, including what you can and can’t bring. It’s super important to know what’s required, what’s allowed, and what needs to stay at home so you’re fully prepared when you walk into the testing center.
1. SAT admission ticket
As you prepare, make sure you know what to bring to the SAT on test day. Don’t forget your SAT admission ticket! You’ll need to print it out at home and bring the paper copy with you on test day—no digital versions are allowed. Without it, you won’t be allowed into the testing room.
Before test day, double-check that your testing center hasn’t changed. If it has, you’ll need to reprint an updated ticket. To print yours, just log into your College Board account and hit “Print Admission Ticket.” It’s that easy!
2. Valid photo ID
The College Board has a list of approved photo IDs you can bring to your SAT exam. You’ll need to show one of these to confirm your identity, or you might not be allowed to take the test. Knowing what to bring to the SAT on test day is important to avoid last-minute issues.
Your ID needs to be valid (not expired), include a clear photo of you, have your full name, and be the original document—no photos or photocopies are accepted.
Here are examples of valid IDs for the SAT:
- Government-issued driver’s license or non-driver ID
- Official student ID card from your current school
- Passport or U.S. Global Entry card
- Military or national ID card
- SAT Student ID Form (prepared by your school or a notary if homeschooled)
Unacceptable forms of ID include:
- Credit or debit cards (even if they have a photo)
- Birth certificates
- Social Security cards
- Employee ID cards
- ChildFind ID cards
- Any temporary ID cards
3. Acceptable calculator
Calculators can be a real lifesaver during tests, and luckily, the SAT lets you use one for part of the math section. If you’re wondering what to bring to the SAT on test day, a calculator is definitely on the list.
It’s a good idea to bring a backup calculator and some extra batteries just in case yours dies during the test. Keep in mind, though, you’ll have to store your extras away from your desk and ask a test administrator if you need to use them during the exam.
For the SAT, the College Board allows specific types of calculators, including most graphing and scientific models. Some of the approved brands and series include:
- Casio: FX-6000 series, FX-7000 series, FX-8000 series, Algebra FX 2.0 series, FX-CG series, Graph25 series, and more.
- Hewlett-Packard (HP): HP-38G, HP-39 series, HP-48 series, HP-50 series, HP Prime.
- Texas Instruments: TI-73, TI-80 series, TI-83, TI-84 Plus series, TI-89 series, TI-Nspire series (except CAS models with certain restrictions).
- Sharp: EL-5200, EL-9300, and similar models.
You can bring a basic four-function calculator to the SAT, but it’s not the best choice since it might not have all the functions you’ll need, like exponents or logarithms.
Make sure your calculator doesn’t have internet access, a QWERTY keyboard, or a stylus (like the Casio ClassPad). It also needs to be battery-operated, and the display shouldn’t be raised in a way that others can see it. Keep these things in mind so you’re not caught off guard on test day!
4. 2 pencils and erasers
Showing up for the SAT without the right writing tools is a recipe for disaster. If you’re wondering what to bring to the SAT on test day, start with at least two No. 2 pencils with erasers, as these are the only writing instruments allowed for the paper SAT. Don’t bring pens or any other type of pencils—they won’t be accepted.
Bringing an extra pencil is important because things happen. What if your pencil breaks mid-test or the eraser smudges your work? Having a backup means you won’t waste time sharpening or borrowing from others. Plus, it’s just one less thing to stress about on test day. Be prepared, and pack those extra pencils!
Optional Things to Prepare and Bring
There are a few extra things you might want to bring to the SAT that aren’t required but can make your experience a bit smoother. You won’t get in trouble for not having them, but they can definitely come in handy. Here are some optional but helpful items to consider packing for test day:
1. Snacks and drinks
Not everyone feels the need to bring snacks or drinks to an exam, but if you’re someone who gets a little cranky when you’re hungry, it might be a good idea. If you’re thinking about what to bring to the SAT on test day, remember that the test is long—about three hours—so having a quick snack or water bottle for the breaks can help you stay energized and focused.
It’s totally allowed, so if you think you’ll need a boost during the test, definitely pack a small snack and some water!
2. An analog watch
Keeping an eye on the time during a standardized test is important for staying on track and managing your pace. It can make all the difference between finishing all the questions or running out of time.
That’s why when thinking about what to bring to the SAT on test day, a watch is a smart move! Since smartphones and smartwatches aren’t allowed by the College Board, a simple wristwatch will do the job just fine. As long as it helps you keep track of time, you’re set!
3. A bag or a backpack
With all the must-have and optional items you’ll need for the SAT, it just makes sense to bring a bag. This way, you can keep everything together during the test. Just remember, once you’re in the test room, you’ll need to store your bag or backpack under your seat while you work. It’ll keep everything handy without getting in the way!
Things You Should Leave at Home
To keep things orderly and prevent any chances of cheating, the College Board has a strict list of prohibited items you can’t bring into the SAT test room. When thinking about what to bring to the SAT on test day, make sure to leave these at home or store them outside the exam room. Breaking these rules could result in your scores being canceled.
Here’s what to leave at home or store outside the exam room:
- Electronic devices. This includes mobile phones, smartwatches, fitness trackers, and other wearable tech. Simple watches are okay as long as they don’t have smart features.
- Computing devices. You can’t bring tablets, laptops, notebooks, Bluetooth devices (like wireless earbuds), or anything that could function as a computer.
- Timers. Separate timers of any kind aren’t allowed, so you’ll need to rely on your watch or the room’s clock.
- Recording devices. Cameras, audio players, and any kind of photographic equipment are strictly prohibited.
- Writing instruments. Pens, highlighters, and mechanical or colored pencils are not allowed—only No. 2 pencils are permitted.
- Study materials. Any books, references, or papers are banned, unless you’ve been given specific approval as an English language learner.
- Geometry tools. Items like rulers, compasses, and protractors won’t be allowed in.
- Other banned items. This includes scratch paper, earplugs, certain calculators with QWERTY keyboards or power cords, and of course, any weapons or firearms.
If you bring something prohibited—especially electronics like a phone or smartwatch—it’s important to make sure they are completely off and stored away outside the testing room. If your device goes off during the test, or if you’re caught using it, test administrators could confiscate it, inspect it, and even cancel your scores.
When thinking about what to bring to the SAT on test day, make sure to only pack the allowed items like your admission ticket, photo ID, pencils, and an approved calculator. To avoid the stress, just leave anything not allowed at home or safely tucked away outside the exam hall. This way, you can stay focused on the test and not risk having your scores voided!
How to Get Ready the Night before the SAT
The night before the SAT is all about setting yourself up for success. Instead of cramming, focus on preparing mentally and physically so you can go into test day feeling confident and relaxed. What you do the night before can really impact your performance.
Here are some tips to help you feel calm, prepared, and ready to crush it on test day:
1. Skip the last-minute cramming.
It might seem like a good idea to try and squeeze in some last-minute studying the night before the SAT, but it can actually do more harm than good. Cramming can leave you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and more likely to forget what you’ve already learned. In addition, a UCLA study revealed that spaced learning was more effective than cramming for 90% of participants in one of the experiments. It’s better to give your brain a break. By this point, you’ve done the hard work, so instead of staying up late trying to memorize more facts, focus on relaxation.
As you’re preparing for test day, don’t forget what to bring to the SAT. Make sure you have all the essentials ready the night before, like your admission ticket, photo ID, pencils, and a calculator. Take the night to unwind, whether that’s by listening to some calming music, going for a walk, or doing something else that helps you relax.
A well-rested brain is more likely to perform at its best, so the goal is to wake up refreshed and ready to go. Trust your prep and give your mind a chance to recharge—you’ll be sharper and more focused during the exam.
2. Gather your materials and plan your morning.
The morning of the SAT can be a bit hectic and nerve-wracking, so it’s smart to plan ahead and get everything ready the night before. This way, you won’t be scrambling around in the morning trying to find things, which will help you stay calm and focused.
When thinking about what to bring to the SAT, start by laying out the essentials: your admission ticket, a photo ID, a couple of sharpened No. 2 pencils, an approved calculator, and any snacks or drinks you might want for breaks. Having everything packed in a bag and ready to go will give you peace of mind and one less thing to stress about.
Don’t forget to think about your morning routine too. Set your alarm for plenty of time before you need to leave, and check how long it’ll take you to get to the test center. If you’re unsure about the route, do a quick map check or even plan to leave a little early to avoid any surprises.
3. Check for test center closures.
With everything going on in the world, it’s a good idea to double-check that your test center is still open. The College Board has a list of updates on test center closings, so it’s worth a quick look to make sure you won’t have any surprises in the morning.
4. Get plenty of rest.
Getting a good night’s sleep before the SAT is absolutely key to performing your best. When you’re tired, it’s much harder to concentrate, solve problems, and think clearly, which can seriously affect your test performance. The best thing you can do the night before is to stick to your usual bedtime and aim for at least eight hours of rest.
As you’re planning your sleep and morning routine, don’t forget what to bring to the SAT. Double-check that you have your admission ticket, photo ID, No. 2 pencils, and an approved calculator ready to go.
Don’t try to change your routine last minute—your body responds best when it’s following a familiar sleep schedule. Set yourself up for success by winding down early, whether that means turning off your phone, reading a book, or listening to some calming music. The goal is to wake up feeling refreshed and alert, not groggy or sluggish.
A full night of sleep will leave you more focused and energized, giving you the mental clarity you need to tackle the SAT with confidence. Plus, it will help keep your nerves in check and ensure you’re in the right headspace to perform at your best. Trust me, your well-rested brain will thank you on test day!
What to Expect on SAT Test Day
On SAT test day, you’ll want to arrive at the testing center early—doors usually open at 7:45 AM, and the test starts at 8:00 AM. Be prepared to go through an ID check, and make sure you have all your required materials, like your printed admission ticket, photo ID, pencils, and an approved calculator. Knowing what to bring to the SAT on test day is crucial to ensure you’re fully prepared.
Once inside, you’ll be assigned a seat, and the test will be broken into sections: Reading, Writing and Language, Math (with and without a calculator), and an optional Essay (if you signed up for it). There will be short breaks in between sections where you can grab a snack or drink water, but keep in mind that the test lasts about 3 hours (or closer to 4 hours if you’re taking the Essay).
Expect a quiet, strict environment with proctors overseeing the room. They’ll give instructions for each section and monitor the time. Phones and smartwatches must be turned off and stored away to avoid any disruptions that could invalidate your test.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are snacks and drinks allowed at the test centers?
Yes, you can definitely bring a snack and a water bottle to your SAT test. Just remember, you’ll only be able to enjoy them during the scheduled breaks, so plan accordingly to stay energized without disrupting the exam!
2. Where and how can I get my SAT admissions ticket?
To get your SAT admission ticket, you’ll need to print it out in advance—showing it on your phone won’t be accepted at the test center. Here’s how to get it:
First, log in to the My SAT portal using the same account you used to sign up for the test. Once you’re logged in, find the option that says “Print Admission Ticket.” This will generate a PDF of your ticket, which you can print directly. Be sure to have it ready to go on test day!
3. What time does the SAT start and end?
The SAT usually kicks off between 8:30 a.m. and 9 a.m., but you’ll want to get there by 7:45 a.m. at the latest. If you show up after that, you might not get in, since the doors typically close around 8 a.m.
As of 2024, the test lasts just over two hours, so most students are done between 10:45 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Each section is timed differently based on the number of questions and difficulty, so expect a structured pace throughout.
4. Can you take the SAT at home?
No, you cannot take the SAT at home. The SAT must be taken in person at an official test center under supervised conditions.
Takeaways
Taking the SAT can feel like a big deal, and it’s normal to have some nerves leading up to test day. You might be wondering what to bring, what’s allowed, and what tools you can use to help you do your best. Getting a clear idea of what to expect will help you feel more confident and ready when the big day arrives!
- You must print out your SAT admission ticket and bring a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or school ID. Without these, you won’t be allowed into the test center.
- The SAT allows certain graphing and scientific calculators, like models from Casio, Texas Instruments, and HP.
- While not required, packing snacks, water, and a simple wristwatch can help you stay energized and manage time effectively.
- The night before the SAT, focus on rest rather than trying to cram. A well-rested brain will help you perform better than one that’s exhausted from late-night studying.
- The SAT is an important test, especially for those who want to get into prestigious schools. Make sure you do well in this test by consulting a college admissions expert to help you prepare.
