SAT I scores are reported on a scale from 200 to 800, with additional subscores reported for the essay (ranging from 2-12) and for multiple-choice writing questions (on a 20-to-80 scale). Your scores tell college admissions staff how you did compared with other students who took the test. For example, if you scored close to the mean or average—about 500 on SAT critical reading and 500 on SAT mathematics—admissions staff would know that you scored as well as about half of the students who took the test nationally.

For Chinese student, most students take SAT with CTY at grade 7 and grade 8. It is best to take twice to get some practice and to find out the weakness of your kids. Since some school teach some good, others not so good. How good is a good score? I think it is best to follow CTY\'s standard, for grade 7, 550 on both math and reading, and for grade 8 both 600 on math and reading.

Unlike ACT, you kids need to prepare SAT. Otherwise it is hard to judge his / her potential. Just like TOEFL, your English may be outstanding, but if do not prepare at all, you will be disappointed.

For best book to prepare SAT see best book to prepare SAT