SAT Score Range: All You Need to Know About It

Discover the SAT score range and how it’s calculated. Learn what a good score is and how it affects your college admissions chances. Read now!

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SAT Score Range Introduction

Note: The SAT Essay has been discontinued, but some states who participate in SAT School Day still have the option to administer it.

The SAT exam consists of a composite score range of 400-1600, which is derived from three individual sections: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. The Math section has a score range of 200-800 in 10-point increments. However, the Reading and Writing sections are scored separately on a scale of 10-40, then converted into an Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) score ranging from 200-800 through an individualized equating process.

It’s important to note that the composite score range doesn’t include the optional Essay, which is scored on a range of 2-8 for each of its three dimensions: Reading, Analysis, and Writing.

In addition to the composite score, the SAT also includes subscores and cross-test scores. These scores are calculated separately on scales of 1-15 and 10-40, respectively, and provide insight into a student’s mastery of specific skills such as vocabulary knowledge and algebra.

 The EBRW Subscores Range

Here is the table summarizing the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) Subscores Range:

Note: The subscores for each section are reported on a scale of 1-15 and are used to provide more detailed information about a student’s strengths and weaknesses in specific areas of reading and writing.

 The Math Subscores Range

Here is the table summarizing the Math Subscores Range:

Note: The subscores for each section are reported on a scale of 1-15 and are used to provide more detailed information about a student’s strengths and weaknesses in specific areas of math.

What is a Good Score, Bad, and Average?

The SAT exam has a score range of 400 to 1600. In 2020, the average score was 1059, with an average Math score of 528 and an average Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 531.

Determining what constitutes a good or bad score can be a challenge. To provide some context, here are a few key score percentiles to consider:

• 99th Percentile: 1520 – This is an exceptional score that would make a student competitive at most Ivy League colleges.
• 90th Percentile: 1350 – This is still a very high score that would make a student competitive at many great universities.
• 75th Percentile: 1210 – This score is better than three out of four students and would make a student competitive at many quality flagship state universities and private schools.
  It’s important to note that top-tier state universities are increasingly requiring higher scores than the 75th percentile, so students should research the requirements of their target schools.

The SAT Score Requirements for 20 Popular Universities

here is a table summarizing the SAT score requirements for 20 popular universities in the United States. Do note that SAT scores are only one factor in the admissions process, and meeting the minimum score requirement does not guarantee admission.

Note: These scores are based on data from the universities’ admissions websites or College Board’s Big Future tool and are subject to change.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the SAT score range is crucial for students who are planning to take the exam and are aiming for admission to their desired college or university. The SAT exam includes three sections: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math, with a composite score range of 400-1600. While the Math section has a score range of 200-800 in 10-point increments, the Reading and Writing sections are scored separately on a scale of 10-40, then converted into an Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) score ranging from 200-800 through an individualized equating process.

Additionally, the SAT includes subscores and cross-test scores, which provide further insight into a student’s mastery of specific skills. A good SAT score varies depending on the university or college and the student’s desired academic program. Students should research the requirements of their target schools and aim to reach the highest percentile possible to increase their chances of admission. Ultimately, the SAT score is just one of the many factors considered in the admissions process, and students should focus on developing a well-rounded application that showcases their achievements, skills, and potential.