Hey y'all, I could use some clarification on how the SAT is scored. I know there are multiple sections, but I'm not quite sure about the point system. Can someone help me out?
Sure, happy to help! The SAT is divided into two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math. Each section is scored on a scale of 200 to 800 points, and then the two section scores are combined to create a composite score, which ranges from 400 to 1600 points.
The EBRW section consists of two parts: Reading and Writing and Language. Reading encompasses passages from literature, history, social studies, and natural sciences, while Writing and Language tests your grammar and editing skills. The scores from these two tests are combined to form your EBRW score.
The Math section also has two parts, both of which allow you to use a calculator. In the past, there was a no-calculator section, but that was eliminated when the SAT went digital. The math section covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and a small portion of data analysis and statistics. Like in the EBRW, the scores from the two parts are combined to create your Math section score.
For each section and the total composite score, the SAT uses a scoring method called "equating." Essentially, while the content and difficulty may vary slightly between tests, the scoring scales are designed to ensure a particular score reflects the same level of performance across different administrations of the test.
I hope this information helps clarify SAT scoring! If you want tips on how to ensure you do as well as possible on the SAT, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/10-tips-to-improve-your-sat-score/
Good luck with your test preparation!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.