Why is the Writing Sample scored now?

What is changing?

Beginning February 28, 2022, the Writing Sample will now be scored as part of your overall score and relevant subscores. The way the question is administered and answered will stay the same.

Why is this changing?

We’ve made this change in order to increase the amount of scored writing without adding to the length of the test. This gives test takers a greater opportunity to demonstrate their writing ability. 

How will the Writing Sample be scored? 

The Writing Sample will be scored using the same methods that we use for other open response writing, such as the Read, then Write question type. You can find more information about that in our Readiness Guide. Also, like Read, then Write, the Writing Sample will contribute to the Literacy and Production Subscores.