Can anyone break down the SAT grading scale?

Hey everyone, I'm about to start studying for the SAT and I'm a bit confused about the grading scale. How does it work, exactly? Can someone help me understand it better? Knowing how it's scored would really help me figure out my study plan. Thanks!

Absolutely, happy to help!

The SAT score comprises of the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (which includes Reading and Writing & Language sections) and the Math section. Each section is scored on a range of 200-800, with the two scores then added together to get a final SAT score between 400 and 1600. The total duration of the digital SAT is 134 minutes, to complete 98 questions.

Now, to break down the raw scores: For each question you answer correctly on the SAT, you earn one point. There is no penalty for guessing or wrong answers, so you should try to answer every question. Your raw score for each major section (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math) is simply the number of questions you answered correctly.

After that, your raw score is converted into a scaled score. This is done through a process called equating, which ensures that scores are comparable between test dates. Equating takes into account variations in difficulty between different versions of the tests. This way, for example, a 600 on one SAT Math section represents the same achievement level as a 600 on another SAT Math section, even if one was slightly more difficult than the other.

There's another score you might want to be aware of - the percentile rank. This score indicates what percentage of test-takers you scored better than. For example, if your percentile rank is 80, you have scored better than 80% of test-takers.

Just remember, these scores can give you a goal to strive for, but they're just one part of your application!

Let me know if you need more information. Have a good study session!