A calm, prepared test day starts well before the exam itself. This checklist walks through exam week, the night before, and the morning of the SAT® exam — the full version of what’s covered in Happi’s SAT® guide.
Exam week
1. Review your exam location, route, transportation method, and estimated travel time. Remember to consider the effect of traffic jams and similar delays. If possible, visit the location beforehand.
2. Complete your exam setup on the Bluebook app 1-5 days before the exam. Remember your username and password for the test day. After completing the setup, download and preferably print your admission ticket.
The previous day
1. Charge your computer.
2. Pack your exam items the day before to avoid hassle in the morning. If there are items you need to add to your bag in the morning, write a list to consult before leaving for the test center so you don’t forget anything crucial.
Required items:
- Valid photo ID
- Admission ticket (a print is preferred)
- Fully charged computer and charging cable
- Your College Board username and password
- Pencils or pens (not highlighters or colored pencils)
Optional items:
- Calculator (if you wish to use your own instead of or in addition to the Desmos Graphing Calculator embedded in the exam system)
- Snacks and water
- Medications or medical devices, if you need those (consult College Board Services for Students with Disabilities). Epinephrine auto-injectors are permitted without the need for accommodations.
- A watch without an audible alarm (good idea to have for the break!)
- A bag or a backpack
- A backup testing device
You can find a complete list of required, optional, and prohibited items on the College Board website
3. In the evening, choose clothes for the test day. Comfortable layers are recommended so you don’t feel hot or cold during the exam.
4. Set an alarm for test day based on the time you need for your morning routine and travel. Check your arrival time on your admission ticket to ensure you arrive early. Note that you must not be late, as late arrivals will not be allowed to attend the exam. Leave a safety margin so you don’t have to stress about being late.
5. Go to bed early — your hard studying is done, and rest is the final key to success. Prioritizing sleep and relaxation is far more effective than cramming the night before.
The morning of the exam
1. Wake up at the intended time.
2. Check the Test Center webpage on the College Board website to make sure there are no short-notice changes or closings.
3. Eat a familiar breakfast. Avoid changing your diet on test day and choose foods you know suit you well. A healthy breakfast preferably includes whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
4. Arrive at the test center on time. Your proctor will guide you forward.
At the test center
1. Visit the restroom. The next opportunity will be after the Reading & Writing section.
2. Be early and find a good seat. Consider access to a power outlet, proximity to the proctor’s table (closer means quicker access to more scrap paper), proximity to windows (for temperature and noise control), and comfort (where will you feel least distracted).
3. Turn on your device, ensure no apps are open except Bluebook, and complete the exam preparations in the Bluebook app.
4. Time for the SAT® exam. Take a deep breath and smile to build up your confidence. You’ve got this!
5. When your proctor gives the start code, begin your exam immediately, so that you’ll be among the first to finish. Finishing early matters because, as others finish, they might distract those still taking the test.
6. Make the most of the break after the Reading & Writing section: walk, stretch, have a snack and drink, and use the restroom if needed. This restores your focus for the Math section far better than staying seated.
Walk in knowing exactly what to expect on every section.