Crush the SAT 2024–2025: Your Guide to a Confident Test Day

 
 

Hey, future college achievers! The SAT is one of those milestones that’s probably been looming in the back of your mind for a while now. Whether you're feeling pumped to tackle it or you're dreading the whole process, we’re here to tell you: you’ve got this.

The SAT isn’t just about bubbling in answers—it’s about showing colleges what you’re capable of and opening doors to your future. And now that the test has gone fully digital, the experience is designed to make things a little less stressful and a lot more streamlined. At Ivy Link, we’re all about helping you navigate this process. Whether you’re taking the test for the first time or aiming for an even higher score, this guide has everything you need to feel ready and confident.

What’s the Digital SAT All About?

Let’s be real: the SAT of the past was a grind—three hours, bubbling answers, and pencils that always seemed to break at the wrong moment. But the new Digital SAT? It’s a game-changer.

Here’s why:

  • It’s Adaptive: The SAT adjusts to your performance, but in a specific way. If you do well on the first verbal module, the next one will be more challenging. If you do less well, the next module will be easier. The same applies to Math. The SAT’s adaptiveness is based on the overall performance within a section.

  • It’s Shorter: Just over two hours long. That’s right—less time for testing and more time to unwind afterward. 

  • It’s Digital: No more filling in bubbles! You’ll take the test on a laptop or tablet using the Bluebook™ app. It’s designed to be intuitive, with features like a built-in calculator for Math and an option to flag questions for later.

  • It’s Faster: You’ll get your scores in just a few days. No more weeks of waiting. This means less stress and more time to focus on your next steps.

We’ve covered this in our previous blog, The New Digital SAT is Here and these changes are designed to work in your favor.

How to Prep Like a Pro Without Losing Your Mind

Balancing SAT prep with school, sports, and your social life can feel like a lot. But with the right strategy, you can fit it all in and still feel confident on test day.

Step 1: Start Early

  • Take a practice test to see where you stand. Think of it as a baseline—it’s not about perfection, just figuring out what you need to work on.

  • Set a goal score. Look up the average scores for the colleges on your list and aim for a number that feels achievable but challenging.

Step 2:  Focus Where It Counts

  • Focus on areas where you need the most improvement. This targeted practice can lead to significant score gains. While dedicating more time to weaker areas, continue practicing your strengths to keep them sharp. By strengthening your weak points and reinforcing your strengths, you’ll be able to perform at your best across all sections of the test.

Step 3: Get Comfortable with the Format

  • Practice using the Bluebook™ app so you’re not fumbling around on test day.

  • Take a full-length practice test under timed conditions. The more it feels like the real thing, the less nerve-wracking test day will be.

Step 4: Don’t Forget to Chill

“You’ve done the work, so trust yourself and breathe.”

  • Yes, the SAT is important, but it’s not the end-all, be-all of your future. Give yourself breaks and celebrate small wins along the way.

  • Get plenty of sleep the night before the test, eat a good breakfast, and bring snacks for the break. 

Quick FAQs

What happens if I miss the registration deadline?
Don’t panic. You can still register during the late registration period, though you’ll need to pay an additional fee. It’s better to set reminders to avoid the rush.

Can I use my own laptop for the digital SAT?
Yes. You can use your own laptop or a school-issued one as long as it meets the College Board’s requirements. Just make sure to download the Bluebook™ app in advance and charge your device fully before test day.

How many times should I take the SAT?
Most students take the SAT 2–3 times to achieve their target score. Colleges typically consider your highest score, so there’s no harm in giving it another shot if needed.

Why the SAT Still Matters

The SAT remains a crucial factor in college admissions, especially for Ivy League and Ivy Plus schools. 

Some of the Schools that Require SAT Scores:

  • Brown University

  • Columbia University

  • Dartmouth College

  • Harvard University

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

  • Princeton University

  • Stanford University

  • Yale University

Additionally, many other selective colleges accept SAT scores, even if they are test-optional. Submitting a strong SAT score can enhance your application by demonstrating academic readiness and commitment. Notable schools that accept SAT scores include:

  • University of Chicago

  • Duke University

  • Johns Hopkins University

  • Northwestern University

  • Emory University

It's important to note that admissions policies can change, so it's advisable to consult the official admissions websites of each institution for the most current information.

Extra curricular activities aren’t required but a college application with them is much stronger than one without.  You can think of standardized testing in the same way.

If you still feel unsure about where to start with your SAT prep, Ivy Link has your back. We offer personalized plans and proven strategies to help you feel confident and ready for test day. Let’s take the stress out of the process and make it work for you. Start your journey today with a diagnostic test at Ivy Link. We’ll create a plan that’s designed to help you succeed. 

EJ (Elden Joie) Gonzales