where to find highest combined essay score for sat

How can I enter my new SAT essay score?

Jul 25, 2023 knowledge, information.

SAT Essay Scores Explained

On january 19th, 2021, college board announced that they will no longer administer the sat subject tests in the u.s. and that the essay would be retired. read our blog post  to understand what this means in the near term and what the college board has in store for students down the road., our articles on subject tests and the sat essay will remain on our site for reference purposes as colleges and students transition to a revised testing landscape..

Why are there no percentiles for the essay on an SAT score report?

No percentiles or norms are provided in student reports. Even colleges do not receive any summary statistics. Given Compass’ concerns about the inaccuracy of essay scoring and the notable failures of the ACT on that front, the de-emphasis of norms would seem to be a good thing. The problem is that 10% of colleges are sticking with the SAT Essay as an admission requirement . While those colleges will not receive score distribution reports from the College Board, it is not difficult for them to construct their own statistics—officially or unofficially—based on thousands of applicants. Colleges can determine a “good score,” but students cannot. This asymmetry of information is harmful to students, as they are left to speculate how well they have performed and how their scores will be interpreted. Through our analysis, Compass hopes to provide students and parents more context for evaluating SAT Essay scores.

How has scoring changed? Is it still part of a student’s Total Score?

On the old SAT, the essay was a required component of the Writing section and made up approximately one-third of a student’s 200–800 score. The essay score itself was simply the sum (2–12) of two readers’ 1–6 scores. Readers were expected to grade holistically and not to focus on individual components of the writing. The SAT essay came under a great deal of criticism for being too loosely structured. Factual accuracy was not required; it was not that difficult to make pre-fabricated material fit the prompt; many colleges found the 2–12 essay scores of little use; and the conflation of the essay and “Writing” was, in some cases, blocking the use of the SAT Writing score—which included grammar and usage—entirely.

With the 2016 overhaul of the SAT came an attempt to make the essay more academically defensible while also making it optional (as the ACT essay had long been). The essay score is not a part of the 400–1600 score. Instead, a student opting to take the SAT Essay receives 2–8 scores in three dimensions: reading, analysis, and writing. No equating or fancy lookup table is involved. The scores are simply the sum of two readers’ 1–4 ratings in each dimension. There is no official totaling or averaging of scores, although colleges may choose to do so.

Readers avoid extremes

What is almost universally true about grading of standardized test essays is that readers gravitate to the middle of the scale. The default instinct is to nudge a score above or below a perceived cutoff or midpoint rather than to evenly distribute scores. When the only options are 1, 2, 3, or 4, the consequence is predictable—readers give out a lot of 2s and 3s and very few 1s and 4s. In fact, our analysis shows that 80% of all reader scores are 2s or 3s. This, in turn, means that most of the dimension scores (the sum of the two readers) range from 4 to 6. Analysis scores are outliers. A third of readers give essays a 1 in Analysis. Below is the distribution of reader scores across all dimensions.

What is a good SAT Essay score?

By combining multiple data sources—including extensive College Board scoring information—Compass has estimated the mean and mode (most common) essay scores for students at various score levels. We also found that the reading and writing dimensions were similar, while analysis scores lagged by a point across all sub-groups. These figures should not be viewed as cutoffs for “good” scores. The loose correlation of essay score to Total Score and the high standard deviation of essay scores means that students at all levels see wide variation of scores. The average essay-taking student scores a 1,080 on the SAT and receives just under a 5/4/5.

College Board recently released essay results for the class of 2017, so score distributions are now available. From these, percentiles can also be calculated. We provide these figures with mixed feelings. On the one hand, percentile scores on such an imperfect measure can be highly misleading. On the other hand, we feel that students should understand the full workings of essay scores.

The role of luck

What is frustrating to many students on the SAT and ACT is that they can score 98th percentile in most areas and then get a “middling” score on the essay. This result is actually quite predictable. Whereas math and verbal scores are the result of dozens of objective questions, the essay is a single question graded subjectively. To replace statistical concepts with a colloquial one—far more “luck” is involved than on the multiple-choice sections. What text is used in the essay stimulus? How well will the student respond to the style and subject matter? Which of the hundreds of readers were assigned to grade the student’s essay? What other essays has the reader recently scored?

Even good writers run into the unpredictability involved and the fact that essay readers give so few high scores. A 5 means that the Readers A and B gave the essay a 2 and a 3, respectively. Which reader was “right?” If the essay had encountered two readers like Reader A, it would have received a 4. If the essay had been given two readers like Reader B, it would have received a 6. That swing makes a large difference if we judge scores exclusively by percentiles, but essay scores are simply too blurry to make such cut-and-dry distinctions. More than 80% of students receive one of three scores—4, 5, or 6 on the reading and writing dimensions and 3, 4, or 5 on analysis.

What do colleges expect?

It’s unlikely that many colleges will release a breakdown of essay scores for admitted students—especially since so few are requiring it. What we know from experience with the ACT , though, is that even at the most competitive schools in the country, the 25th–75th percentile scores of admitted students were 8–10 on the ACT’s old 2–12 score range. We expect that things will play out similarly for the SAT and that most students admitted to highly selective colleges will have domain scores in the 5–7 range (possibly closer to 4–6 for analysis). It’s even less likely for students to average a high score across all three areas than it is to obtain a single high mark. We estimate that only a fraction of a percent of students will average an 8—for example [8/8/8, 7/8/8, 8/7/8, or 8,8,7].

Update as of October 2017. The University of California system has published the 25th–75th percentile ranges for enrolled students. It has chosen to work with total scores. The highest ranges—including those at UCLA and Berkeley—are 17–20. Those scores are inline with our estimates above.

How will colleges use the domain scores?

Colleges have been given no guidance by College Board on how to use essay scores for admission. Will they sum the scores? Will they average them? Will they value certain areas over others? Chances are that if you are worrying too much about those questions, then you are likely losing sight of the bigger picture. We know of no cases where admission committees will make formulaic use of essay scores. The scores are a very small, very error-prone part of a student’s testing portfolio.

How low is too low?

Are 3s and 4s, then, low enough that an otherwise high-scoring student should retest? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to that question. In general, it is a mistake to retest solely to improve an essay score unless a student is confident that the SAT Total Score can be maintained or improved. A student with a 1340 PSAT and 1280 SAT may feel that it is worthwhile to bring up low essay scores because she has previously shown that she can do better on the Evidence-based Reading and Writing and Math, as well. A student with a 1400 PSAT and 1540 SAT should think long and hard before committing to a retest. Admission results from the class of 2017 may give us some added insight into the use of SAT Essay scores.

Will colleges continue to require the SAT Essay?

For the class of 2017, Compass has prepared a list of the SAT Essay and ACT Writing policies for 360 of the top colleges . Several of the largest and most prestigious public university systems—California, Michigan, and Texas, for example, still require the essay, and a number of highly competitive private colleges do the same—for example, Dartmouth, Harvard, Princeton, and Stanford.

The number of excellent colleges not requiring the SAT Essay, though, is long and getting longer. Compass expects even more colleges to drop the essay requirement for the classes of 2018 and 2019. Policies are typically finalized in late spring or during the summer.

Should I skip the essay entirely?

A common question regarding SAT scores is whether the whole mess can be avoided by skipping the essay. After all, if only about 10% of colleges are requiring the section, is it really that important? Despite serious misgivings about the test and the ways scores are interpreted, Compass still recommends that most students take the essay unless they are certain that they will not be applying to any of the colleges requiring or recommending it. Nationally, about 70% of students choose to take the essay on at least one SAT administration. When looking at higher scoring segments, that quickly rises to 85–90%. Almost all Compass students take the SAT Essay at least once to insure that they do not miss out on educational opportunities.

Should I prepare for the SAT Essay?

Most Compass students decide to do some preparation for the essay, because taking any part of a test “cold” can be an unpleasant experience, and students want to avoid feeling like a retake is necessary. In addition to practicing exercises and tests, most students can perform well enough on the SAT Essay after 1–2 hours of tutoring. Students taking a Compass practice SAT will also receive a scored essay. Students interested in essay writing tips for the SAT can refer to Compass blog posts on the difference between the ACT and SAT tasks  and the use of first person on the essays .

Will I be able to see my essay?

Yes. ACT makes it difficult to obtain a copy of your Writing essay, but College Board includes it as part of your online report.

Will colleges have access to my essay? Even if they don’t require it?

Yes, colleges are provided with student essays. We know of very few circumstances where SAT Essay reading is regularly conducted. Colleges that do not require the SAT Essay fall into the “consider” and “do not consider” camps. Schools do not always list this policy on their website or in their application materials, so it is hard to have a comprehensive list. We recommend contacting colleges for more information. In general, the essay will have little to no impact at colleges that do not require or recommend it.

Is the SAT Essay a reason to take the ACT instead?

Almost all colleges that require the SAT Essay require Writing for ACT-takers. The essays are very different on the two tests, but neither can be said to be universally “easier” or “harder.” Compass recommends that the primary sections of the tests determine your planning. Compass’ content experts have also written a piece on how to attack the ACT essay .

Key links in this post:

ACT and SAT essay requirements ACT Writing scores explained Comparing ACT and SAT essay tasks The use of first person in ACT and SAT essays Understanding the “audience and purpose” of the ACT essay Compass proctored practice testing for the ACT, SAT, and Subject Tests

About Art Sawyer

Art graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University, where he was the top-ranked liberal arts student in his class. Art pioneered the one-on-one approach to test prep in California in 1989 and co-founded Compass Education Group in 2004 in order to bring the best ideas and tutors into students' homes and computers. Although he has attained perfect scores on all flavors of the SAT and ACT, he is routinely beaten in backgammon.

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Hi! I’m a high school junior who took the October and November SATs. I got a 1500 on October and then retook it to get a 1590 in November. I’m very happy with my score, but my essays are troubling me. I got a 6-4-6 in October and thought I would improve in November, but I got a 6-3-6. I really cannot improve my actual SAT score, but I don’t understand the essay. I’ve always been a good writer and have consistently been praised for it in English class and outside of class. Is this essay score indicative of my writing skill? And will this essay hurt my chances at Ivy League and other top tier schools? None of the schools I plan on applying to require it, but, since I have to submit it, will it hurt my chances? Thank you so much.

Maya, The essay is becoming increasingly irrelevant. Honestly, a 6-4-6 is a fine score and will not hurt your chances for admission. It’s something of an odd writing task, so I wouldn’t worry that it doesn’t match your writing skills elsewhere.

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Report SAT Essay On Common App & Combining Them

When applying to college through the Common App, students often wonder how to report their SAT Essay score and whether it should be included at all. While the SAT Essay is no longer a mandatory section, some schools still consider it an essential part of the application. Knowing when and how to include your SAT Essay score can enhance your application, making it stand out. 

This guide will walk you through the steps of reporting your highest combined SAT Essay score on the Common App and explore the value of integrating your SAT scores effectively to present the strongest possible application.

Reporting the SAT Essay on the Common App

When filling out the Common App, you can choose to report your SAT Essay score. Here are a few important things to remember:

• Optional Submission : Although the essay is not mandatory, you can still report it if you believe it strengthens your application or if a specific college explicitly states that they consider SAT Essay scores.
• Accurate Reporting : If you decide to report your SAT Essay score, ensure that it is presented accurately, reflecting your best performance. Mistakes or misrepresentations could negatively affect your application.
• Consider College Requirements : Some colleges, particularly those with writing-intensive majors (like English, Journalism, or History), might still appreciate seeing a strong SAT Essay score, even if it’s not a requirement.

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Whether or not to include your SAT Essay score is a personal decision. Here are some reasons why reporting it might make sense:

• Writing Proficiency : The SAT Essay was designed to assess your ability to analyze a passage and write an organized, coherent response under time pressure. A high SAT Essay score can demonstrate strong writing abilities. This could help distinguish you, especially in applications where the ability to write well is highly valued.
• College-Specific Policies : Although many colleges no longer require the SAT Essay, some competitive schools and specific programs still consider it. For example, honors programs or writing-intensive majors may value a strong essay score more than others. Be sure to research the policies of each college you’re applying to before deciding whether to report your score.
• Demonstrating Growth : If your essay score improved significantly over time or if it complements other areas of strength in your application, it may be beneficial to report it. Highlighting growth in your test scores can show colleges that you’re someone who has worked hard and is dedicated to improving academically.

Importance of the SAT Essay

Although the SAT Essay was discontinued in 2021, some colleges still consider it. Submitting your score can add value based on your strengths and the programs you’re applying to. 

• Showcasing Writing Skills : A robust SAT Essay score proves that you can analyze complex texts and write persuasively under time constraints. For students applying to writing-intensive programs or majors, this score could serve as a valuable supplement to other parts of the application.
• Holistic Admissions Review : Many schools, especially more selective ones, take a holistic approach to admissions, looking beyond just GPA and standardized test scores. 

In these cases, a well-rounded applicant with solid test scores, a strong essay, and demonstrated extracurricular achievements might have a better chance than someone who only excels in one area. Even if not required, submitting an SAT Essay score could give admissions committees another data point to consider.

• Program-Specific Policies : As mentioned earlier, while most schools no longer require the SAT Essay, specific programs—especially honors or interdisciplinary studies programs—might still appreciate it. Some programs may value the analytical and writing skills demonstrated by a strong essay score, so thoroughly research each school’s policy.

In short, while the SAT Essay is no longer a universal requirement, there are still many cases in which reporting it can benefit you. It ultimately depends on your strengths and the colleges you’re applying to.

How to Report SAT Scores on the Common App

The Common App allows students to self-report their SAT scores, including the optional essay. This feature gives you control over how your test results are presented to colleges and universities. Follow these steps to ensure your scores are accurately reported:

• Log In : Start by creating or logging into your Common App account. If you’re applying to multiple schools, this platform allows you to keep track of your applications and ensures you report your scores consistently.
• Navigate to the Testing Section : After logging in, head to your application’s “Testing” section. This is where you’ll input all your standardized test scores, including the SAT.
• Manually Input Scores : Enter your SAT section scores (Reading, Writing and Language, Math) as well as your SAT Essay subscores (Reading, Analysis, Writing) if you choose to report them. Be sure that the scores you input match the official scores from the College Board to avoid discrepancies.
• Send Official Scores : Self-reporting scores on the Common App is just the first step. You’ll also need to send official score reports through the College Board to verify your results. Select the schools you’re applying to and submit the appropriate score reports.

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Should You Combine SAT and SAT Essay Scores?

Students frequently wonder if they can combine SAT and SAT Essay scores from different dates. While super scoring applies to the SAT, the SAT Essay is different. 

• Superscoring Policy : Most schools allow super scoring and let students take their highest section scores across multiple test dates. However, the SAT Essay cannot be superscored. You must report the essay score as it was achieved on a single test date.
• College Requirements : Not all colleges consider the SAT Essay, so review each school’s admissions guidelines. If a school doesn’t require the essay, you might decide not to report it, especially if your essay score isn’t as strong as your other scores.
• Performance on the Essay : Consider whether your essay score enhances or weakens your overall application. If you excelled on both the SAT and the essay, it may be worth reporting both scores. On the other hand, if your essay score is relatively low, you might opt not to include it, especially if it’s not required.
• Test-Optional Policies : Many schools now have test-optional policies, which means you can choose whether or not to report your standardized test scores. If your SAT Essay score doesn’t add much to your application, focus on your other strengths. This could include your personal essays, recommendations, or extracurricular activities.

Combining SAT Essay and SAT Scores on the Common App

When combining your SAT Essay score with your main SAT score on the Common App, keep these considerations in mind:

• Separate Entries : Remember that the SAT Essay score is not part of your overall SAT score. The essay score is reported separately and does not factor into your composite score for the main test.
• Superscoring : While you can superscore your SAT section scores by combining your best Reading, Writing, and Math scores from different test dates, the SAT Essay score must be reported from the test date on which you took the essay.

Maximizing the Impact of Your SAT Essay and SAT Scores

If your SAT Essay score is strong, here are some ways you can maximize its impact:

• Supplemental Essays : Use your college essays to highlight your writing abilities. Mentioning that you performed well on the SAT Essay can further prove your writing proficiency.
• College Interviews : If you have a college interview, consider bringing up your SAT Essay score to emphasize your ability to analyze and communicate complex ideas.
• Align with Your Major : If you’re applying for a major that requires a lot of writing (like English, History, or Journalism), reporting your SAT Essay score can help bolster your application by showcasing your strong writing skills.

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How colleges evaluate sat essay scores.

Though the SAT Essay is no longer a widespread requirement, some colleges still evaluate it during their review process. Here’s how colleges might view the different components of your SAT Essay score:

• Reading Score : This score reflects how well you understood and interpreted the passage. Colleges that prioritize critical reading and analytical skills may consider this score when evaluating applicants.
• Analysis Score : The score demonstrates your ability to break down the argument and evaluate the author’s use of evidence and rhetoric. Strong analysis skills are highly valued in programs that emphasize critical thinking.
• Writing Score : Your writing score assesses how clearly and effectively you communicate your ideas. A high writing score can be instrumental if you’re applying to a program involving significant writing.

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Reporting your SAT scores strategically can strengthen your college application, especially if your SAT Essay score complements your strengths. While no longer required by most schools, a strong essay score can boost your chances, particularly for writing-intensive programs. 

Ensure you report it accurately on the Common App and consider each college’s requirements before deciding to include it. By carefully presenting your scores, you can highlight your skills and stand out in the competitive admissions process.

If you’re preparing for the SAT or looking to improve your essay score, get started with LeanQ ! It provides free diagnostic tests, practice tests, and even an AI tutor, Mia, to guide you through your preparation. 

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, how is the sat combined score calculated.

Hey guys! I just got my SAT scores back, but I'm a bit confused about how the combined score is calculated. Are there any specific weights or calculations involved? Thanks for any info you can provide!

Hey there! Congrats on getting your SAT scores back! I'm happy to help you understand how the combined score is calculated.

The SAT has two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW), and Math. Each section has a score range of 200-800, making the highest possible combined score 1600. The combined score is simply the sum of your EBRW and Math section scores.

Here's a step-by-step breakdown of the combined score calculation:

1. EBRW Section: This section consists of two tests - the Reading Test and the Writing and Language Test. Each test has a raw score, which is determined by the number of questions you answered correctly. The raw scores from these two tests are then converted into a scaled score, ranging from 10 to 40. This conversion is done using a process called "equating," which adjusts for any slight differences in difficulty between test versions.

2. EBRW Scaled Score: The scaled scores from the Reading Test and the Writing and Language Test are added together, resulting in a scaled score ranging from 20 to 80 for the entire EBRW section.

3. EBRW Final Score: The EBRW scaled score is multiplied by 10, giving you a final EBRW score between 200 and 800.

4. Math Section: The Math Section also has a raw score, based on the number of questions you answered correctly. This raw score is converted to a scaled score between 200 and 800, using the same equating process as the EBRW section.

5. Combined Score: Finally, your EBRW and Math final scores are added together to get your combined SAT score, which ranges from 400 to 1600.

I hope this breakdown helps clear up your confusion! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Good luck with your college applications!

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