Hey guys, I've been trying to understand the SAT scoring system. How does it work, like what's the highest possible score I can get? Is it different for the Reading & Writing and Math sections?
Sure, I can clarify that for you! The SAT is scored out of 1600 total points. This breakdown comprises two sections: Mathematics and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW), each of which is scored out of 800 points. Therefore, if you get a perfect score in both sections, you’d have a total of 1600.
It's important to mention that there's no penalty for incorrect answers, so if you're running out of time on a section, it's in your best interest to guess rather than leaving the answer blank.
The questions in the Math and EBRW sections are not all worth the same amount of "points" when calculating your scaled score. For example, in Math, each question isn't worth 800 divided by the number of questions. Instead, your raw score (the number of questions you got correct) is converted to a scaled score through a process called equating. This process ensures that the test is fair for all test-takers, regardless of which form of the test they take.
Starting in spring 2024, the SAT is digital, but this scoring remains the same. The SAT consists of two 32-minute modules for Reading and Writing to complete 54 questions, and two 35-minute modules for Math to complete 44 questions. The total duration of the digital test is 134 minutes, to complete 98 questions.
To summarize, aim for as high a score as you can in each section so that you increase your aggregate score that's out of 1600. Good luck with your preparation!
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