SAT scores drop at national level

By Eowyn Holmes

National SAT scores for high schoolers have seen a significant drop in recent years, according to data released by the College Board.

The SAT is a standardized test commonly used for college admission and a benchmark for academic readiness. There’s been speculation online about why these scores have dropped, but there isn’t yet a final conclusion.

In 2018, the scores averaged around 531 for math and 536 for reading. The most recent data shows that scores have dropped, averaging at 508 for math and 520 for English.

One potential cause of this decline in scores could have to do with the fact that students last year took the SAT on a computer, instead of on paper.

Liberty High School’s class of 2025 counselor, Samantha Derosier, explained that “Students were not used to this, especially since their PSAT tests were still traditional pen and paper.”

PrepScholar mentions, “Higher GPA also correlates with higher SAT scores.” 

There are many reasons as to why this could have happened, and many parents and administrators are skeptical. Luckily, Derosier believes, “SAT scores will rebound when students get used to online standardized testing.”