Device Lending

Essential Guide to Returning and Caring for Your Borrowed Digital SAT Device Responsibly

Protect your scores and avoid financial liability with proper device handling and return steps.

Borrowing a device for the Digital SAT comes with specific responsibilities. This comprehensive resource outlines how to maintain your loaner laptop or tablet during the exam, the exact steps for returning it to test center staff, and the potential consequences of damage or loss. Ensure your testing day remains stress-free by following these official care and return protocols.

Device Lending3 min read
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This guide provides essential tips for caring for SAT loaner devices and outlines the proper procedure for returning them. Following these guidelines is critical to avoid any damage, delays, or additional costs.


1. Understand Your Responsibilities

When you borrow a device for the Digital SAT, you agree to the following:

  • Use Exclusively for the SAT:
    The loaned device is provided solely for the purpose of taking the SAT and should not be used for any other tasks.

  • Handle with Care:
    You are responsible for keeping the device in the same condition as when you received it. Mishandling or damage may result in financial liability.

  • Return Promptly:
    The device must be returned to the testing staff immediately after completing your exam. Late returns or failure to return may have consequences.

Failure to meet these responsibilities could result in reimbursement for repair or replacement costs.


2. Caring for the Device During the Test

To ensure the device remains in good working condition throughout your exam, follow these practices:

  • Maintain Stability:
    Keep the device on a flat, stable surface to prevent accidental falls or bumps.

  • Avoid Food and Drinks:
    Keep any food or beverages away from the device to avoid spills that might cause damage.

  • Do Not Attempt Repairs:
    If you experience any device malfunctions, notify the test center staff immediately. Do not try to repair the device yourself.

  • Follow Usage Instructions:
    Refrain from installing or uninstalling software and avoid changing any settings on the device.


3. Returning the Device After the Test

After you complete your SAT, adhere to the following steps to return the device properly:

  • Power Off the Device:
    Make sure to turn off the device before handing it back to the test center staff.

  • Return All Accessories:
    If you received chargers, styluses, or any other accessories along with the device, return all of them together.

  • Report Any Issues:
    If you encountered any problems with the device during the exam, inform the test center staff immediately so that they can take appropriate measures.

The test center staff will manage the packaging and return shipping of the device.


4. Consequences of Damage or Loss

Be aware of the following potential consequences if the borrowed device is damaged, lost, or destroyed:

  • Score Withholding:
    The College Board may decline to score your test if the device is not returned in acceptable condition.

  • Financial Liability:
    You could be held responsible for the costs associated with repairing or replacing the device.

  • Future Eligibility:
    Damaging a device may result in being barred from borrowing devices for future tests.


5. Additional Support

If you have further questions or require assistance regarding borrowed SAT devices, contact the College Board's support:

  • Phone (U.S.): 866-502-6384
  • Phone (International): +1-212-520-8570
  • Email: [email protected]

Enhance Your Digital SAT Preparation

For comprehensive preparation that covers everything from test strategies to technical support for loaned devices, consider enrolling in the SAT Sphere Digital SAT Course. This course offers tailored guidance, practice materials, and expert support to help you excel on test day.


This guide is designed to help you handle and return your loaned SAT device responsibly, ensuring that no technical or logistical issues hinder your performance on the Digital SAT. Stay prepared and take good care of your device.

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.

What are my responsibilities when borrowing a SAT loaner device?

When you borrow a device for the Digital SAT, you agree to use it exclusively for the SAT, handle it with care to keep it in the same condition as when you received it, and return it to testing staff immediately after completing your exam. Failure to meet these responsibilities could result in reimbursement costs for repair or replacement.

How should I care for the borrowed SAT device during my exam?

Keep the device on a flat, stable surface to prevent accidental falls, keep food and beverages away to avoid spills, do not attempt any repairs yourself if malfunctions occur, and avoid installing or uninstalling software or changing any settings on the device.

What are the consequences if I damage or lose the borrowed SAT device?

The College Board may decline to score your test if the device is not returned in acceptable condition, you could be held financially responsible for repair or replacement costs, and damaging a device may result in being barred from borrowing devices for future tests.

What steps do I follow to return the SAT loaner device after my test?

Power off the device before handing it back, return all accessories such as chargers or styluses that were provided with it, and report any problems you encountered during the exam to the test center staff immediately so they can take appropriate measures.

What should I do if the borrowed SAT device malfunctions during the test?

Do not attempt to repair the device yourself. Instead, notify the test center staff immediately about any device malfunctions so they can address the issue and take appropriate action.

Can I use the borrowed SAT device for tasks other than taking the SAT?

No. The loaned device is provided solely for the purpose of taking the SAT and should not be used for any other tasks. Using it for other purposes violates the borrowing agreement and may have consequences.

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