About the SAT Score Calculator
The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. Our free SAT score calculator helps you estimate your SAT scores based on the number of correct answers in each section. The SAT consists of two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math, with a total score range of 400-1600.
How to Use the SAT Score Calculator
Using our SAT calculator is simple and straightforward:
- Enter Your Correct Answers: Input the number of correct answers for each section - Reading (52 questions), Writing & Language (44 questions), Math No Calculator (20 questions), and Math Calculator (38 questions).
- Calculate Your Score: Click the "Calculate SAT Score" button to instantly see your estimated total score and section scores.
- Review Your Results: Analyze your scores, including your total score (400-1600), EBRW score (200-800), and Math score (200-800).
- Use Additional Tools: Explore our superscore calculator, percentile finder, and college admission estimator for comprehensive insights.
Understanding SAT Scoring
The SAT scoring system can seem complex, but here's what you need to know:
- Total Score Range: 400-1600 (combining EBRW and Math)
- Section Scores: Each section (EBRW and Math) is scored from 200-800
- Test Scores: Reading, Writing, and Math tests are scored on a scale of 10-40
- Raw Scores: Based on the number of correct answers (no penalty for wrong answers)
- Scaled Scores: Raw scores are converted to scaled scores using College Board's conversion tables
What is a Good SAT Score?
A "good" SAT score depends on your college goals, but here are some general benchmarks:
- 1600: Perfect score - 99th+ percentile
- 1500-1590: Excellent - 99th percentile, competitive for top-tier schools
- 1400-1490: Very Good - 93rd-98th percentile, competitive for selective colleges
- 1300-1390: Good - 86th-92nd percentile, competitive for many colleges
- 1200-1290: Above Average - 74th-85th percentile
- 1000-1190: Average - 40th-73rd percentile
- Below 1000: Below average - consider retaking the test
SAT Superscore Explained
Many colleges accept SAT superscores, which combine your highest section scores from multiple test dates. For example, if you scored 650 EBRW and 700 Math on your first test, then 700 EBRW and 680 Math on your second test, your superscore would be 1400 (700 EBRW + 700 Math). Our superscore calculator makes this process easy by automatically selecting your best scores.
How Often Should You Take the SAT?
Most students take the SAT 2-3 times. Here's what to consider:
- First attempt: Usually junior year spring or fall
- Second attempt: If needed, senior year fall
- Third attempt: Only if you believe you can significantly improve
- Colleges typically see all your scores unless you use Score Choice
- Focus on improving weak areas between attempts
Tips to Improve Your SAT Score
- Practice Regularly: Use official College Board practice tests
- Identify Weak Areas: Focus on sections where you score lowest
- Learn Test Strategies: Time management and question-answering techniques
- Build Vocabulary: Essential for the Reading section
- Master Math Concepts: Review algebra, geometry, and data analysis
- Take Timed Practice Tests: Simulate real test conditions
- Review Mistakes: Understand why you got questions wrong
- Consider Prep Courses: If self-study isn't enough
SAT vs ACT: Which Should You Take?
Both tests are accepted by all U.S. colleges. Key differences include:
- SAT: More emphasis on reasoning and vocabulary, optional essay (some schools require it)
- ACT: Includes a science section, faster-paced, optional essay
- Scoring: SAT scores 400-1600; ACT scores 1-36
- Duration: SAT is 3 hours (without essay); ACT is 2 hours 55 minutes (without essay)
- Take practice tests for both to see which suits you better
Understanding Percentile Rankings
Your percentile rank shows what percentage of test-takers scored at or below your score. For example, a score in the 75th percentile means you scored better than 75% of test-takers. Use our percentile calculator to see how your score compares nationally.
College Board Score Conversion Tables
Our calculator uses official College Board conversion tables to translate raw scores (correct answers) into scaled scores. These tables may vary slightly between different test administrations to account for difficulty differences, but our calculator provides accurate estimates based on standard conversion tables.
When Are SAT Scores Released?
SAT scores are typically released 13-15 days after the test date. Multiple-choice scores come first, followed by essay scores (if taken) about 5 days later. You can access your scores through your College Board account.
How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges
You can send your SAT scores to colleges through your College Board account. The first four score reports are free if sent during registration or within 9 days after the test. Additional score reports cost $12 each. Some colleges accept self-reported scores initially but require official reports upon admission.