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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
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SAT: 720 math
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Making Sense of SAT Scoring—Help Needed

Hey folks, hope everyone's keeping well. SAT scoring has me all mixed up. My basic understanding is that it's scored on a 1600-point scale, but that's about it. Would anyone be able to explain in simple terms please—how does the SAT scoring work?

3 months ago

Sure, happy to clarify that for you. SAT scoring can indeed be a bit confusing. As you mentioned, it's based on a 1600-point scale, divided between two sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW). Each section is worth up to 800 points, combining for the total maximum score of 1600.

Here's where it gets a little more complex. Each of these two sections is made up of several individual tests. The EBRW section includes a Reading Test and a Writing and Language test, while the Math section includes two modules. However, no matter the individual tests, the scores always add up to a final total score between 200 - 800 points per section.

Your raw score for each section (the total number of questions you got right) is converted into a scaled score using a process called equating. This process compensates for any slight variations in difficulty between different test versions, ensuring that a score of, say, 650 on one test reflects the same level of ability as a 650 on another test.

Beginning Spring 2024, the SAT has gone fully digital, but the scoring remains the same. The Reading and Writing section has two 32-minute modules with total 54 questions, and Math has two 35-minute modules with total 44 questions.

One more note: there isn't a penalty for guessing on the SAT. So if you're unsure about an answer, it's to your advantage to make your best guess rather than leaving the question blank.

I hope this clears things up for you, and best of luck with your SAT test preparation!

3 months ago

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