Definition
A scaled score is a transformed raw score that has been adjusted to a common scale, typically ranging from 100 to 1000, for standardized comparison across different versions of an exam. This transformation ensures that scores are comparable even if the difficulty of the exam varies slightly between administrations. Scaled scores are calculated using statistical equating methods, which account for differences in item difficulty and test length. They provide a consistent measure of a candidate's knowledge and skills, independent of the specific test they took. For instance, a scaled score of 750 on one exam administration represents the same level of performance as a 750 on another, even if the raw number of correct answers differs. This differs from a raw score, which is simply the number of questions answered correctly. Scaled scores are commonly used in certification exams like CompTIA Security+ and AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate.