What Is the DSAT (Digital SAT)? How and Where to Register (College Board)

MÜGE ÇİĞDEM
Jan 22
2 min read

If you’re planning to apply to universities abroad—especially in the U.S. or programs that request standardized tests—you may come across the SAT. Today, the SAT is offered in a digital format called the DSAT (Digital SAT).

In this guide, you’ll learn what the DSAT is, who needs it, how the exam works, and how to register through College Board.

Quick Summary

DSAT = Digital SAT, the computer-based version of the SAT.
It measures skills in Reading & Writing and Math.
Registration is done through College Board (the official organizer).
The exam is taken at authorized test centers on a computer.

1) What Is the DSAT?

The DSAT (Digital SAT) is the digital, computer-based version of the SAT. It is designed to assess academic skills commonly required for university-level study.

The DSAT focuses on:

Reading & Writing (combined section)
Math

It is widely used in admissions processes where SAT scores are accepted or required.

2) Who Should Take the DSAT?

You may need the DSAT if:

Your target universities require or recommend SAT scores
You want to strengthen your application, especially for competitive programs
Your school list includes universities where SAT scores are still evaluated

Important: Some universities have test-optional policies, meaning the SAT may not be required—but a strong score can still be an advantage depending on your profile and program.

3) DSAT Format: What’s Different?

Compared to the traditional paper SAT, the DSAT is:

Computer-based
More streamlined in timing
Designed with modern test experience in mind

Many students find the digital format easier for:

navigation and time control
readability on screen
built-in tools (depending on the test environment)

However, the real advantage depends on your comfort with reading and problem-solving on a screen.

4) How to Register for the DSAT (College Board)

DSAT registration is completed through College Board, the official organization that runs the SAT.

The usual registration flow is:

Create or sign in to your College Board account
Choose your test date
Select your country and a nearby test center
Complete the registration details
Pay the exam fee and confirm your seat

After registration, you can track your test status and access updates through your account.

5) What You Should Prepare Before Registering

Before you register, make sure you have:

A valid ID/passport (as required by your test center)
A clear plan for your target application deadlines
A study timeline (so your exam date fits your overall application schedule)

6) Final Tip: Align DSAT With Your Application Timeline

The biggest mistake is registering without considering deadlines. Your DSAT date should leave enough time for:

preparation and practice tests
score reporting
a possible retake if needed

A well-planned DSAT timeline makes the application process much smoother.

Conclusion

The DSAT is the digital version of the SAT and is used by many universities abroad as part of admissions decisions. Registration is done through College Board, and choosing the right test date—aligned with your application timeline—is essential for a stress-free process.

If you want, we can build a personalized DSAT plan based on your goals, timeline, and target schools.