Understanding how the SAT is scored is crucial for setting realistic goals and tracking your progress. The scoring system may seem complex at first, but once you grasp the basics, you’ll be able to interpret your results and plan your preparation strategy effectively.
Basic Scoring Structure
The SAT uses a scaled scoring system with scores ranging from 400 to 1600. This total score is divided into two section scores:
Reading and Writing: 200-800 points Math: 200-800 points
Unlike some tests, the SAT does not penalize you for wrong answers. This means you should always answer every question, even if you need to guess. A blank answer and a wrong answer are treated identically, so guessing gives you a chance to earn points.
How Raw Scores Become Scaled Scores
Your journey from answers to final score happens in two steps:
First, your raw score is calculated. This is simply the number of questions you answered correctly. If you answer 45 out of 54 Reading and Writing questions correctly, your raw score for that section is 45.
Second, your raw score is converted to a scaled score (200-800) using a conversion table. This conversion accounts for slight variations in difficulty between different test versions, ensuring that a 1400 on one test date represents the same level of achievement as a 1400 on another date.
Score Ranges and Percentiles
Understanding percentiles helps you see how your score compares to other test-takers:
- 1400-1600: Exceptional (top 5-10% of test-takers)
- 1200-1390: Strong (top 25-30%)
- 1000-1190: Average (middle 50%)
- Below 1000: Below average
A score at the 90th percentile means you performed better than 90% of test-takers. Competitive universities typically look for scores in the 75th percentile or higher, though requirements vary significantly by institution.
Superscoring
Many colleges practice “superscoring,” which means they consider your highest section scores across multiple test dates. For example:
- Test 1: 650 Reading & Writing, 700 Math (Total: 1350)
- Test 2: 700 Reading & Writing, 680 Math (Total: 1380)
- Superscore: 700 Reading & Writing, 700 Math (Total: 1400)
This policy encourages students to retake the SAT to improve individual sections without worrying about performing worse overall on a particular test date.
What’s a Good Score?
A “good” score depends entirely on your college goals. Research the middle 50% score range for admitted students at your target schools. Aim for a score at or above the 75th percentile to be competitive. Remember, while scores matter, they’re just one part of your application. A strong GPA, compelling essays, and meaningful extracurriculars are equally important for admissions success.
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