Scaled score
A scaled score is a test result placed on a fixed scale so it can be compared. Two very different scales share this name, so check which one you have.
A clinician has not checked this definition yet.
Applies across the UK
In a psychologist's report, subtest scaled scores usually run from 1 to 19, and 10 is the average Descriptive range The words a report uses to sum up a score, like 'average' or 'extremely low'. Tests draw these bands in their own places, so the same word can mean different scores. A clinician has not checked this definition yet. Read the full definition of Descriptive range . A scaled score of 8 there is close to average, not a failing mark.
On a key stage 2 results sheet from a school, the scaled score runs from 80 to 120, and 100 is the expected standard. This is a completely different scale from the one in psychology reports, even though the name is identical. The key stage 2 tests and their scaled scores are England only.
So before reacting to any scaled score, check which document it is on and what its average is. A number that looks alarming on one scale can be perfectly ordinary on the other.
Related words
Where this comes from
- Assessment results at the end of key stage 2: information for parents , Standards and Testing Agency. Checked 2026-08-14.
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