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Score Structure

The SAT Suite of Assessments provides detailed information about student learning by reporting different types of scoring metrics. Each assessment reports a total score and section scores. These scores give an enhanced profile of students' skills and understanding.

Note: Following the June 2021 SAT administration, the optional SAT Essay and SAT Subject Tests have been discontinued; however, educators and students can still view scores from previous administrations. The SAT Essay will be available only in states where it's required as part of SAT School Day administrations.The SAT reports the SAT Essay scores separately.

When and Where to Get Scores

You can view scores for the SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and PSAT 8/9 and find access codes for students who need them by signing into the K–12 score reporting portal. View the score release schedule to find out when student scores will be available.

Vertical Score Scale

The SAT Suite uses a common score scale, providing consistent feedback across assessments to help educators and students monitor growth across grades and to identify areas in need of improvement. This level of feedback can help both students and educators engage in the best possible practice for future assessments: strong classroom work and instruction.

Middle schools and high schools can also use this information to evaluate their curriculum. Higher education institutions can use scores to get deep insight into student readiness.

For illustrative purposes only, bar graphs in 3 different colors represent the three assessments and their proposed scoring ranges. Light blue: SAT, score range 200-800. Dark blue, PSAT 10 and PSAT/NMSQT, score range 160-760. Gold: PSAT 8/9, score range 120-720. A plotted line below the bars shows a potential overall score range from 120-800. Vertical markers at 3 score points illustrate grade-level benchmarks that will determine whether students are making on target progress toward the SAT benchmark.

Total Score and Section Scores

Each of the assessments in the SAT Suite reports a total score that is the sum of the Reading and Writing section scores and the Math section score.

Ranges for Total Scores

  • SAT: 400–1600
  • PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10: 320–1520
  • PSAT 8/9: 240–1440

Ranges for Section Scores (Reading and Writing, Math)

  • SAT: 200–800
  • PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10: 160–760
  • PSAT 8/9: 120–720

SAT Essay Scoring

Scores on the SAT Essay are reported separately and are divided into three dimensions: Reading, Analysis, and Writing. Each dimension is scored on a 2–8 point scale.

Get scores in the K−12 score reporting portal.

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