SAT and ACT test day essentials
Taking the SAT or ACT can be a stressful experience, but being prepared can help ease some of that stress. One important aspect of preparation is knowing what to bring to the test center. Here are some items that students should bring with them on test day:
Admission Ticket: Students should print out their admission ticket and bring it with them to the test center. This ticket serves as proof of registration and includes important information such as the student's name, photo, and test date.
Acceptable ID: Students must bring a valid, government-issued photo ID in good condition to the test center. The name on the ID must match the name on the admission ticket. Some acceptable forms of ID include a driver's license, passport, or school ID. If you don’t have an acceptable form of identification, look into getting a Student ID Form from the College Board or ACT in advance of your test date.
Number 2 Pencils: Students should bring several sharpened No. 2 pencils with erasers to the test center. Mechanical pencils are not allowed, so be sure to bring traditional pencils.
Approved Calculator: Students are allowed to use a calculator on the math section of the SAT or ACT. Be sure to bring an approved calculator, which can be found on the testing organization's website. Some common approved calculators include the TI-84, TI-89, and Casio fx-9750GII.
Snacks and Drinks: Students are allowed to bring snacks and drinks to eat during breaks (not during the actual test sections themselves). Some common ideas for snacks and drinks include granola bars, fruit, water, and sports drinks.
Extra Supplies: Students should bring extra supplies, such as an eraser, extra batteries, any necessary medications, and a watch (without an audible alarm) to keep track of time. Bringing a watch can help ensure that students are pacing themselves appropriately. If you’d like help improving your timing on the SAT or ACT, feel free to contact us.
It's important to note that all of these items must be in compliance with the testing organization's guidelines. Students should review the guidelines, which can also be found on their admission ticket, carefully before test day to ensure they are prepared. Additionally, students should arrive at the test center early to allow time for any unexpected issues, such as traffic or difficulty finding the test center.
One final note: do NOT bring your phone into the test center! Students’ test scores can be canceled if their phone goes off during the test, so it’s just a good idea to avoid the possibility altogether. Hopefully, this list helps you to be prepared for the SAT or ACT, reduces stress, and increases your chances of success. Good luck!
