SAT Prep – How SAT Scores are Calculated
Computer Adaptive Testing and SAT Scoring
Since transitioning from a paper and pencil exam to a digital exam in in 2024, the SAT has become a computer adaptive test. Computer adaptive testing is a type of computer-based testing that adapts in real-time to the test-taker’s ability level. Question difficulty is dynamically adjusted depending on how the test-taker performs, usually through an algorithm based on item response theory that selects questions appropriate to the level of skill the test-taker has demonstrated. This results in greater measurement precision, shorter testing time due to the need for fewer questions, and increased test security, since no two test-takers receive the same version of the exam but rather receive different questions presented in different orders.
The SAT consists of two sections, Reading and Writing, and Math. Each section is broken into two modules as part of computer adaptive testing. How a student performs on the first module of a section determines the difficulty level of the questions they receive in the second module. If a student performs very well on their first Reading and Writing or Math module, they will receive more challenging questions on their second module. If, however, they struggle on their first module, they will receive less challenging questions on their second module.
According to the College Board, every student receives the same mix of easy, medium, and hard questions on their first module. The questions they receive in their second module are tailored to their performance in the first module. Section scores are based on how a student performed on all questions in both modules, and a range of section scores is possible regardless of which second module a student receives. The College Board assures test-takers that students are not given a scoring advantage simply for seeing a set of questions with higher difficulty, nor are they disadvantaged for seeing a set of questions in the second module with a lower level of difficulty. Student can be confident in meeting state and College Board benchmarks regardless of the difficulty level of the second module they are given.
The College Board notes that the scoring model for the digital SAT considers several factors when calculating scores, including:
- Characteristics of the questions a student answered correctly and incorrectly (e.g., the difficulty level of the questions), and
- The probability that the pattern of a student’s answer suggests they were guessing.
It is important to understand that two students who answer the same number of questions correctly on a section of the SAT may earn different section scores because of the aforementioned factors. At the same time, each administration of the digital SAT samples from the same content domains across the same range of skill and knowledge elements. This means that all students have an equitable opportunity to demonstrate their strengths and abilities.
In terms of scoring, students must perform well on the first module of a section to receive questions in their second module that will allow them to achieve a perfect or very high score. More challenging questions can result in higher scores, but since test-takers are answering fewer questions overall, challenging questions are especially difficult to answer and there is less room for making mistakes while still achieving a top score.
Summary of Total Scores and Section Scores
Students receive a total of three scores after taking the SAT:
- Total score
- Reading and Writing section score
- Math section score
Test-takers used to receive sub scores and cross scores, but these stopped being reported when the SAT became digital.
As of the last test revision in 2024, students who take the SAT receive a total score of 400 to 1600. This total score is the sum of the two section scores, Reading and Writing, and Math. Students receive a section score for Reading and Writing (200-800), and a section score for Math (200-800). The Reading and Writing section contains two modules, and each module consists of 27 questions for a total of 54 Reading and Writing questions. The Math section also contains two modules, with each module consisting of 22 questions for a total of 44 Math questions.
Raw Scores, Score Equating, and Score Concordance
The process for section scoring begins with the calculation of raw scores, which represent the number of correct answers. Students receive one point for each correct answer, and unlike pre-2016 versions of the SAT, no points are deducted for incorrect answers. These raw scores are then converted to scaled scores using a process known as "equating," which revises raw scores upward or downward based on the difficulty level of a given test (scaled scores are not based on student group performance within a specific administration of the SAT).
Prior to the launch of the digital SAT for international students in March 2023, the College Board conducted two concordance studies establishing that scores from the digital exam are comparable to scores from the previous paper and pencil version of the SAT. A score of 1050 on the digital exam would correspond to a score of 1050 on the paper and pencil version and carry the same meaning, allowing scores from the digital exam to be used for college admissions, as well as other intended test purposes.
Other Benefits to Digital SAT Scoring
Switching from the traditional paper and pencil testing format to a digital one provides important benefits related to scoring, including the opportunity for students to receive their SAT scores in days rather than previous wait time of three to six weeks. This allows students to make more informed educational decisions, including whether or not they wish to take the test again and what colleges and universities they can realistically expect to be admitted to based on their scores.
As to why sub scores and cross-test scores were not included in score reports for the digital SAT, the College Board has expressed a desire to streamline the score report in order to make it more user-friendly for students and their parents. Only time will tell whether more detailed scores are missed or if the change to reduced score reporting will be a welcome one.