SAT scores are typically submitted separately as part of a college application — so should they appear in a recommendation letter too? In some cases, referencing an SAT score can enhance a recommendation, but it should be done thoughtfully and with purpose. Here’s how to navigate this decision.
Introduction — Do SAT Scores Belong in Recommendation Letters?
Recommendation letters are meant to:
- Provide insight into a student’s character, abilities, and potential.
- Share context that test scores and transcripts can’t fully capture.
While SAT scores are usually listed elsewhere, mentioning them in a letter can reinforce a student’s strengths if done strategically.
When and Why SAT Scores Enhance a Recommendation Letter
Supporting an Application Narrative
If a student’s SAT score aligns with their academic strengths or chosen field, mentioning it can help present a cohesive picture.
Highlighting Exceptional Scores
For students with standout SAT results, a teacher might briefly reference this achievement, particularly if it reflects classroom performance.
Reinforcing Academic Strengths
A teacher could cite an SAT math score as evidence of quantitative skill or a verbal score as a sign of communication strength — especially if tied to specific examples.
How to Reference SAT Scores Effectively
Mention Scores Naturally
SAT scores shouldn’t be the focus of a recommendation. Instead, they can:
- Support observations about a student’s academic abilities.
- Illustrate preparedness for college-level work.
Connect Scores to Performance
For example:
"Alex’s 760 SAT Math score reflects the same analytical precision I saw in his AP Calculus projects."
Link Scores to Readiness Traits
Tie scores to qualities like perseverance, curiosity, or intellectual engagement.
Best Practices for Students Requesting Mentions of SAT Scores
- Ask only when scores strengthen your case — e.g., when they exceed a college’s average or align with your intended major.
- Provide context — share why you think including the score supports your application narrative.
- Encourage teachers to pair the score with a story — showing how it connects to your effort, growth, or classroom contributions.
Sample Phrases for Referring to SAT Scores in Recommendation Letters
- "Jordan’s SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 730 complements the thoughtful, articulate essays she contributed in AP English Literature."
- "Sam’s outstanding SAT Math score of 780 is just one reflection of his problem-solving abilities, which he demonstrated through his innovative approach to science fair projects."
- "Maria’s SAT scores affirm what I observed in class — a student who consistently rises to challenges and excels."
Frequently Asked Questions About SAT Scores in Recommendation Letters
Should SAT scores appear in all recommendation letters?
No — only when they meaningfully support the letter’s narrative.
Can mentioning a low SAT score hurt a student?
Yes — focus on strengths; avoid mentioning scores that don’t enhance the application.
What if a student’s score is strong but not exceptional?
It’s usually best to let the official score report speak for itself unless the score supports a specific classroom observation.
Do colleges expect SAT scores in recommendation letters?
No — they review official score reports separately.
When might it help to mention SAT scores?
When the score highlights a student’s strength in a particular area or aligns with their intended field of study.
Can students suggest how teachers mention scores?
Yes — students can provide context and explain why mentioning a score could strengthen their application.
Conclusion — Thoughtful Use of SAT Scores in Recommendations
SAT scores can play a supporting role in a recommendation letter when they reinforce academic strengths and fit naturally into the narrative. The key is to ensure any mention of scores adds meaningful context rather than duplicating information from elsewhere in the application. For more guidance on recommendations, test strategies, and admissions planning, visit RevisionDojo — your trusted college prep resource.
