Report SAT Essay On Common App & Combining Them

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.

Are You a Tutor or a Test Prep Institute?

Give your students a Duolingo-like platform for the SAT with Shopify-like customization for tutors and test prep institutes.

Should You Include the SAT Essay Score?

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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. 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.

  1. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
Join the Learning Revolution with LearnQ.ai!

Enhance your Digital SAT study routine with AI-driven insights and personalized practice tests.

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. 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

CONNECT WITH TOP SAT ACHIEVERS

Join our Thriving Discord Community

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

Also read: How do you get started with LearnQ.ai for FREE?

Empower Your Students with LearnQ.ai

Book a demo today to see how our platform can elevate your test preparation programs.

Conclusion

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. 

Table Of Content

Free Digital SAT Practice with AI Tools.

Related Blogs

SUBSCRIBE TO
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

Get the best detailed & latest updates in education technology and also the advancement of AI in education delivered to your inbox. These newsletter focuses on the research & education.

Scroll to Top