The scores are broken down into sections (typically Reading, Writing and Language, and Math), each with a score out of 800. The total score is the sum of these section scores, ranging from 400 to 1600. A higher score generally indicates stronger performance and better college preparedness. The meaning of a specific score depends on the context – comparing it to other students, to a specific college's admission requirements, etc. Colleges use these scores, along with other factors like GPA and extracurricular activities, to make admission decisions.