How Are SATs Scored?
The SAT, or Scholastic Assessment Test, is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. Many students and parents are curious about how the SAT is scored, as it plays a significant role in the college application process. Understanding the scoring system can help students better prepare for the test and maximize their scores.
The SAT consists of two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math. Each section is scored on a scale of 200 to 800, with a total score of 400 to 1600. The scoring process involves several steps, which we will explore in detail below.
Scoring the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Section
The Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section is scored by computer. The test consists of multiple-choice questions, and each question is worth one point. The raw score is the total number of correct answers, and it is then converted to a scaled score. This conversion is necessary to account for the difficulty of different versions of the test.
The raw score is converted to a scaled score using a process called equating. Equating ensures that the difficulty level of different test versions remains consistent over time. The final scaled score for the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section ranges from 200 to 800.
Scoring the Math Section
The Math section is also scored by computer and consists of multiple-choice questions. Similar to the Reading and Writing section, each question is worth one point. The raw score is calculated by adding up the number of correct answers, and it is then converted to a scaled score using the equating process.
The Math section has a slightly different scoring system than the Reading and Writing section. The raw score is converted to a scaled score, but the conversion process is adjusted to account for the difficulty level of the Math questions. The final scaled score for the Math section also ranges from 200 to 800.
Scoring the Essay
The SAT includes an optional essay section, which is scored separately from the main sections. The essay is scored by two readers who evaluate it on a scale of 1 to 6 for each of the three dimensions: reading, analysis, and writing. The scores for each dimension are then combined to produce a total essay score ranging from 2 to 8.
The essay score is not included in the total SAT score, but it may be considered by some colleges during the admissions process. It is important for students to understand that the essay is optional and does not affect their overall SAT score.
Understanding Score Reporting
Once the scoring process is complete, students receive their scores in the mail or through their College Board account. The total SAT score is the sum of the Reading and Writing section scores and the Math section scores. The essay score is reported separately.
Understanding how the SAT is scored can help students develop effective strategies for test preparation. By focusing on areas where they can improve and familiarizing themselves with the scoring process, students can work towards achieving their best possible SAT score.
