Device Lending

SAT Device Lending FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Borrowing a Digital SAT Device

Essential guidance on eligibility, deadlines, and technical support for your loaner device.

Preparing for the Digital SAT requires a compatible device, but not every student has access to one. This comprehensive FAQ guide breaks down the College Board’s device lending program, from submitting your request 30 days in advance to troubleshooting technical issues with test center staff. Ensure your focus remains on your score, not your hardware, by understanding the loaner process.

Device Lending3 min read
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This FAQ guide provides clear answers to common questions students and parents have about borrowing a device for the Digital SAT. It covers eligibility, the application process, deadlines, and troubleshooting steps. Use this guide to understand the device lending process and ensure you're fully prepared for test day.


1. Who Is Eligible to Borrow a Device?

  • Eligibility Criteria:
    Any student without access to a suitable device for the Digital SAT—and who is unable to borrow one from school, family, or friends—may request a loaner device through the College Board.

2. How Do I Request a Loaned Device?

  • Request Process:
    • During the SAT registration process, indicate that you do not have access to a necessary device.
    • After registration is complete, the “Request a device” option will appear in your My SAT account.
    • Follow the provided link to fill out a brief questionnaire, which requires an adult reference (such as a counselor or teacher).

3. When Should I Submit My Device Request?

  • Timing:
    Submit your device request at least 30 days before your test date. This allows sufficient time for processing, shipping, and any necessary setup.

4. Is Approval Guaranteed Once I Submit a Request?

  • Approval Process:
    Submitting a request does not guarantee that a loaned testing device will be provided. Approval is determined based on eligibility criteria and available inventory.

5. What Type of Device Will I Receive?

  • Device Details:
    • Most students receive managed Chromebooks in new or like-new condition.
    • In certain regions, a different model of laptop or tablet may be provided, based on availability.

6. How Will I Receive the Loaned Device?

  • Delivery Process:
    Approved loaner devices are shipped directly to your test center. You will collect and set up the device upon your arrival on test day.

7. What Should I Do on Test Day with the Loaned Device?

  • Test Day Instructions:
    • Arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes early.
    • Collect your device and proceed with the exam setup process, which includes logging into the Bluebook™ testing app and generating your admission ticket.

8. Can I Practice for the SAT Using the Loaned Device?

  • Usage Guidelines:
    The loaned device is intended for test day use only. For practice, you can use any compatible device to:

9. What If I Encounter Technical Issues with the Loaned Device?

  • Troubleshooting:
    • Immediately notify the test center staff if you experience any technical issues with your loaned device.
    • Test center personnel, including trained technology monitors, will assist with troubleshooting.
    • If necessary, they may provide a replacement device and guide you through using features such as the Bluebook™ app’s “Resume Testing” function.

10. Who Can I Contact for Further Assistance?

  • Additional Support:
    For further questions or technical support regarding device lending, contact College Board Customer Service:
    • U.S. Phone: 866-630-9305
    • International Phone: +1-212-713-8000

Enhance Your Digital SAT Preparation

For comprehensive guidance and tailored strategies on how to excel on the Digital SAT, including detailed support for using loaned devices, consider enrolling in the SAT Sphere Digital SAT Course. This course provides expert instruction, practice materials, and personalized support, ensuring you are fully prepared for test day.


This FAQ is designed to help students and parents navigate the device lending process smoothly so that technical concerns do not hinder your performance on the Digital SAT. Stay informed, plan ahead, and take advantage of the available resources to succeed on test day.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers to the questions students usually ask next about this topic. If your question is not here, the related guides below go into more detail.

Who is eligible to borrow a device for the Digital SAT?

Any student without access to a suitable device for the Digital SAT—and who cannot borrow one from school, family, or friends—may request a loaner device through the College Board. Eligibility is determined based on need and available inventory.

How do I request a loaner device for the SAT?

During SAT registration, indicate that you do not have access to a necessary device. After registration, the Request a device option will appear in your My SAT account, where you can follow the link to complete a brief questionnaire that requires an adult reference such as a counselor or teacher.

When should I submit my SAT device request?

Submit your device request at least 30 days before your test date. This timing allows sufficient time for processing, shipping, and any necessary setup required before test day.

What type of device will I receive for the Digital SAT?

Most students receive managed Chromebooks in new or like-new condition. In certain regions, a different model of laptop or tablet may be provided based on availability.

How will my loaned SAT device be delivered?

Approved loaner devices are shipped directly to your test center. You will collect and set up the device upon your arrival on test day.

Can I practice on my loaned SAT device before test day?

The loaned device is intended for test day use only. However, you can use any compatible device to download the Bluebook app and access Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy for preparation.

What happens if my loaned SAT device has technical issues on test day?

Immediately notify test center staff if you experience technical issues. Trained technology monitors will assist with troubleshooting and may provide a replacement device, guiding you through features such as the Bluebook app's Resume Testing function if needed.

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