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What do SATs scaled scores mean?

Quick answer

Year 6 SATs results are given as scaled scores from 80 to 120. A score of 100 or more means your child met the expected standard in that subject. The raw mark needed for 100 changes a little each year to allow for how hard the papers were. Writing and science aren't tested; teachers assess them instead.

By the TapLearn team · Updated 30 October 2026 · Facts checked 30 October 2026 · For England

From raw marks to scaled scores

Each SATs paper is marked to give a raw score, the number of marks your child got. Because some years' papers are slightly harder than others, raw scores are turned into scaled scores, so a score means the same thing every year.

  • Scaled scores run from 80 to 120.
  • 100 or more means your child met the expected standard in that subject.
  • Below 100 means they haven't yet met it.
  • The Department for Education's statistics count 110 or more as a high score.

The raw mark needed for 100 is published in July, after the tests. In 2026 it was 56 out of 110 in maths, 25 out of 50 in reading and 34 out of 70 in grammar, punctuation and spelling. So a child doesn't need anything like full marks to meet the standard.

Which subjects get a scaled score

  • Reading: one paper.
  • Maths: three papers (arithmetic and two reasoning papers) combined into one score.
  • Grammar, punctuation and spelling: two papers.
  • Writing and science are assessed by the teacher. For writing, your child is described as working towards the expected standard, working at it, or working at greater depth. Our guide to those words explains them.

When you'll see results

Schools receive results in early July (from Tuesday 6 July in 2027). You'll usually get them with your child's end-of-year report, before the summer holidays. In 2026, results were nine days late, so don't worry if your school's date moves.

How results compare

In 2026, 75% of children met the expected standard in reading, 75% in maths and 74% in grammar, punctuation and spelling. 63% met it in reading, writing and maths combined.

If your child scored below 100

  • It doesn't stop them going to secondary school or choosing subjects later.
  • Secondary schools use results, with their own checks, to decide who needs extra support in Year 7, and that support is a good thing.
  • Look at which subject, and talk to your child's teacher about what would help most over the summer: usually reading for pleasure and keeping number facts fresh.

Questions parents ask

What is a good SATs score?

100 or more means your child met the expected standard. The Department for Education's statistics count 110 or more as a high score. The top score is 120.

Is there a greater depth score in the SATs?

Not in the tests. 'Greater depth' is used only for teacher-assessed writing. In reading, maths and grammar, a high scaled score shows strong attainment.

Why did my child need a different raw mark from last year?

The raw mark for 100 is set each year so a scaled score means the same thing even if the papers were a little harder or easier.

Can my child re-sit SATs?

No. There are no re-sits. Secondary schools use their own checks in Year 7 as well.

Sources

Related guides

Written by the TapLearn team for parents and carers in England. Schools teach in different orders and ways, so your child's teacher is always the best person to ask about your child. Spotted something out of date? Please email us at [email protected].