One of the most frustrating and embarrassing experiences-SAT December 1st 2018

Hey guys, This is a story about one of the most embarrassing experiences I’ve had during the most recent SAT. I felt so prepared and I was really happy about my performance on this test . there is two minutes left before the essay section was finished and to my surprise a phone goes off . This completely freaked me out and everyone out but I knew I didn’t personally have a cell phone but after 5 seconds. I realize the ring is coming from my bag. It turns out the phone was my great-grandmothers and she had placed it in my bag. I had no idea the phone was in my bag. supervisor was extremely upset and acted like I did a crime Place my test and a separate file and filled out a form. when I try to explain he had no sympathy but I don’t hold it against him. I get home and call the support line for the college board they tell me the file complaint with a case and the support lady tells me there will be an investigation. This being a very rare circumstances I don’t expect a lot of people to know about what happens but if anyone has any information on what are my chances of actually getting my scores because I really think I don’t deserve getting my scores canceled for a cellphone ,that I had no idea was in my bag,going off, and if anyone knows anything about the investigation and how long it usually takes.

I saw a similar case (maybe on CC) where a kid picked up a jacket at home that wasn’t his and it had an old watch in the pocket of the jacket that wasn’t his that went off during the last section of the SAT. That student’s score was cancelled. I don’t know if the student challenged the infraction, but the College Board’s policy looks pretty clear and they should have gone over that policy before taking the exam. I am sorry that you may have to learn this lesson the hard way.

https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/taking-the-test/phone-electronic-device-policy

Be prepared that you may have your score cancelled.

Your excuse for not knowing what was in your bag wouldn’t fly at TSA in an airport either.

^ Well TSA has been nicer to me, I guess, because I’m always forgetting to remove my water bottle, or food, or laptop . . . they just run my stuff through again w/o those items :slight_smile:

This sounds bizarre. Why would GGMa be placing a cell phone in OP’s bag w/o his knowing? Also, I thought my son told me his bag stays outside the testing room during these tests - he would get his drink and/or snack from it during break but bag and phone are safely outside during the actual test. Does this vary by testing center? Sounds like a prudent rule to keep it outside.

Check your bag twice I guess.

Below is from their website:

*The test administration staff is encouraged to collect and hold phones and other prohibited electronic devices during the test administration, including break periods, or to deny admission to anyone who is in possession of a prohibited electronic device.

If your device makes noise or you are seen using it at any time, including during breaks, you may be dismissed immediately, your scores can be canceled, and the device may be confiscated and its contents inspected. The College Board is not responsible for loss or damage to personal items, including electronic devices, while you are in the test center.*
https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/taking-the-test/test-day-checklist

This is an unfortunate situation, but their policy is pretty clear. All you can do now is wait. You may want to go ahead and sign up for the next SAT exam.

Why did your grandma put her phone in your bag? That will not look good in your appeal.

@Sadboi47 Did you ask her?

She had the intention of telling me to call her after i was done with the test to pick me up.She is an 80 year old lady and is often not too forgetful but in this circumstance She forgot to me. She also didn’t know that i couldn’t have a phone or even be on my phone during the test.

Sorry, OP, but this story is hard to believe.

With regard to what CB will do, it’s anybody’s guess but I’d prepare for them to cancel your score.

That’s really too bad. But it is a good life lesson. When something is important you check and double check. Pockets and purses to make sure you don’t have any phones etc. It’s also not fair to the other kids taking the test to be disturbed due to one person. I’m glad the College Board follows the rules. If not, phones would be ringing during the entire test.

Well thank you for your honesty.

Would anyone know if I would get my SAS back if my scores are cancelled?

I assume you mean SAT?

This is an unfortunate situation. The College Board can’t guess your intent. If the rule is that no phones are allowed to be seen or heard, they may do what they said and cancel the scores. Did you ask how long it will take to get a decision? If you’re a senior, you may need to schedule a retake.

OP do you mean your QAS report? Not clear they would score your SAT if your test gets cancelled. Likely they would pull it in order for you not to be able to use it even in an unofficial capacity.