Your SAT writing score comes from the multiple-choice part of the exam, while your SAT essay

score is derived from a new part of the exam. That is the SAT Essay

section, which stands on its own and does not affect your score in either of the multiple-choice sections. You will have 50 minutes to complete the new version of the SAT Essay section.

Other Question and Answers that can be helpful for you

1. How does the SAT essay affect your SAT Writing score?

Your SAT writing score comes from the multiple-choice part of the exam, while your SAT essay score is derived from a new part of the exam. That is the SAT Essay section, which stands on its own and does not affect your score in either of the multiple-choice sections.

2. How much does the SAT essay count?

In truth, the SAT essay score counts for around 30% your total writing score—in the ballpark of 200 points, altogether. It’s not the only thing, but it’s a significant piece of the puzzle. And what about those who say the essay doesn’t matter?

3. How do I get a 12 on the SAT essay?

After each reader goes through and marks your essay, the two scores will be added to give you a score of 0–12 (if you actually wrote anything remotely relevant, that’s 2–12). Then that score, in turn, is added to the raw score from the Writing multiple-choice questions, since the essay is just a part of the Writing Section.

4. Do colleges still require the SAT essay?

When in doubt, contact the admissions office of your prospective college for more information. A few elite colleges continue to require the SAT essay in its current form. Some of these colleges are in the Ivy League, notably Dartmouth, Harvard, Princeton and Yale.