SAT Scores: Interpreting Your SAT Score Report

Students and families often have questions about the information provided in their SAT Score Report. To help you better understand your scores, we’ve put together a helpful guide.

Remember, your Section scores and Total score are what matter most to colleges.

Subscores provide more specific information for how you might focus your test preparation.

Cross-Test Scores and Subscores are typically not used in college admissions decisions

 A   The Total Score (400-1600) and Section Scores (200-800) are the most important scores when applying to college. The Essay Scores are not factored into the Total or Section scores.

 B   Percentiles show your relative standing among other students. The “Nationally Representative” percentile is based on data for all U.S. students, including students who did not take the SAT. The “SAT User” percentile is based on actual scores of students who took the SAT.

 C  The benchmark is a measure of your college readiness. The benchmark for Evidence-Based Reading & Writing is 480. The benchmark for Math is 530.

 D   Test Scores are used to calculate Section Scores. Multiplying the sum of the Reading and the Writing & Language Test Scores by 10 gives the Evidence-Based Reading & Writing Section Score. Multiplying the Math Test Score by 20 gives the Math Section Score.

EBRW Score: (22 + 27) × 10 = 490
Math Section Score: 26 × 20 = 520

E Cross-Test Scores are based on history and science-related questions spread throughout the SAT. There is no dedicated history or science section on the test. Cross-Test Scores are used primarily as assessment tools for schools.

As always, feel free to reach out with any questions. Standardized testing for college admissions can be confusing and overwhelming. We are here to help. Please feel free to contact us or leave a note in the comments box below.