SAT Scoring Process

Can anyone explain how the SAT is scored? I've heard they use a specific method, but I'm not exactly sure how it works. Also, what's considered a 'good' score? Thanks in advance for the help!

Certainly! The SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600 points, with separate scores for the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW) and Math sections. Each section is scored on a scale of 200 to 800 points, and your total score is the sum of your scores on both sections.

To calculate your section scores, the College Board uses a process that involves two steps: raw scores and scaled scores.

1. Raw scores: First, your raw score is calculated for each section by tallying the number of correct answers you have. There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so it's best to attempt every question.

2. Scaled scores: Next, your raw scores for the ERW and Math sections are converted into scaled scores using a process known as equating. This process accounts for the slight variations in difficulty between different versions of the test. It ensures that a score of 600 on one test administration represents the same level of performance as a score of 600 on another administration.

Regarding what's considered a "good" SAT score, it ultimately depends on the colleges you're targeting. For instance, if you're aiming for a highly selective college, you may want to aim for a score within the 1400-1600 range, whereas for less competitive colleges, a score around 1000-1200 may be considered sufficient. However, it's essential to research the middle 50% SAT score range of admitted students at the schools you're interested in to have a better idea of the scores they're typically looking for. Keep in mind that the SAT is just one part of the college admissions process, and factors such as your GPA, course rigor, extracurricular activities, and personal essays also play significant roles in your application.