SAT Scores Hold Steady as Test Sees Slight Growth

By Beckie Supiano

The average scores of high-school graduates of 2008 who took the SAT held steady from last year as the number of test takers grew slightly.

This year, the average scores were 502 on the critical reading section, 515 on mathematics, and 494 on writing, according to a report released on Tuesday by the College Board, which owns the SAT. Each section is scored on a scale from 200 to 800.

More than 1.5 million high-school graduates of 2008 took the test, a record

Digital or Print Subscription

Web Pass

Already have an account? Log In Now.

First Person

4 Rules of Lateness
Notes From Academe

Coal Into Honey
Commentary

Skeptical of Slippage

Past Coverage

SAT Scores Down Slightly as Number of Test Takers Rises - August 25, 2009
As More Students Take the ACT, Average Scores Dip - August 13, 2008
More Hispanic Students Are Ready for College Than in the Past, Report Says - October 9, 2007
ACT Scores Stay the Same as Number of Test Takers Grows - August 19, 2009
Disparities Grow in SAT Scores of Ethnic and Racial Groups - September 11, 1998

Advice

Value, Price, and Fees

Distinguishing between price and value can boost your retirement returns.
Sorry I'm Late

We tend toward lateness because each of us hates waiting more than we feel bad about making others wait.
The Candidate and His Earring

In 20 years, will we see college presidential candidates with piercings and tattoos?