Test Day Tips

A handy checklist to ensure a smooth testing experience

Test Day Tips

The Day Before:

  • Know your test location. Double check the admissions ticket to know where you are going and when to be there.

  • Pack a bag of essentials. This includes snacks, a bottle of water, a test-approved calculator (with fresh batteries)*, and #2 pencils and erasers.

  • Bring calming tools. If there is a good luck charm or item that helps you relax, be sure to pack that as well.

  • Head to bed early. Don’t worry if you have trouble falling asleep. Just close your eyes, try to quiet your body, and give yourself a chance to rest.

  • Practice the way you will test. If you plan to wear a mask, do your homework sections and practice tests in the one you plan to wear on test day..

 

Test Day:

  • Eat a healthy breakfast. Suggestions include a bagel with peanut butter, eggs, or yogurt with fresh fruit.

  • Dress in layers. The room may be warm or overly air-conditioned, so be prepared either way.

  • Don’t forget to wear your watch! Pacing is key, and you’ll want to be able to track your time on each section.

  • Bring your ID & printed admission ticket. You need these items to take the test; there are no exceptions, so be sure to put them in a safe place.

  • Plan for any last-minute issues. Leave the house early enough to give yourself a buffer in case you run into traffic. Arriving at your testing location early will ensure that you find the right classroom and have a moment to breathe before starting.

  • Be proactive about test anxiety. One trick to use during an exam if you start to feel anxious is to hit a “reset button” in your head. Make a deliberate action—take a deep breath, drink a sip of water, hold a small rock in your hand, or pick up a good luck charm. This small movement will help you regroup and redirect your attention away from anxious thoughts and back towards the test at hand.

  • Take a deep, long breath. Don’t know how? Watch this helpful video!

  • Be confident. You’ve prepped, you’ve worked hard, and you’re ready. Now it’s time to show what you know.

For the Digital SAT

Please make sure to bring the following:

  • Your fully charged device with the Bluebook app loaded
  • Your charged calculator
  • A charging cord for your device and an extension cord if possible
  • Your printed admission ticket and photo ID
  • Sharpened pencils and a pen for scratch paper work
  • A drink or snack

Other reminders:

  • Make sure that you have followed all instructions from the College Board (often sent by email) to run a system check on Bluebook before going to the test center.
  • Test doors open at 7:45 am and close at 8 am. Don’t be late!

Find the full list from the College Board here.

As always, our team is here to help. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact us.

*calculators are not allowed for SSAT, ISEE, and SHSAT

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