New SAT Rules for 2026

The 7 changes that are new for the 2026 test year — and why each one matters for your child.

Windows 11 now required

Microsoft ended Windows 10 support, so Bluebook needs Windows 11. Chromebooks work only in "verified mode" — a real gotcha for older home laptops.

Seat waitlists

New in Fall 2026: when your date or center is full, join a waitlist and get auto-placed if a nearby seat opens — big in high-demand Frisco/DFW.

Smart glasses banned

Smart glasses are now explicitly prohibited. Prescription pairs must be removed — bring standard glasses or you'll be turned away.

Desmos upgrades

Students can now toggle between the scientific and graphing calculator at any point in the exam, and resize the calculator window.

Better visual tools

The Math reference sheet now has alternate layouts, and you can zoom and pan on charts, graphs and images.

Extended-time update

Once standard time elapses, students with extended time can click "Next" to continue or end the section — with a confirmation warning first.

Accommodations changes (Fall 2026)

Students approved for embedded Text-to-Speech now test at a test center, not at home; new text-to-speech and screen-reader support is coming to Math; and approved students must bring their own wired, non-Bluetooth headphones.

SAT® is a trademark of the College Board, which does not endorse this guide. Bluebook™ and Desmos™ belong to their owners. Changes reflect the 2026–27 testing year; confirm current policies at collegeboard.org.

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