<ol>
<li><p>How does the essay factor into the score or college admissions process? It seems that essay is optional but many students still elect to write one? I gather it does not affect the composite score? But what is the point then?</p></li>
<li><p>Is there a compiled list of essays that have been offered on recent exams? Any sample essays?</p></li>
</ol>
<p>I can help with the first one very easily. Basically, since the SAT test has an essay and they want the two tests to be comparable, there is an “optional” essay portion. There is a score that goes along with it but it is not factored into the composite. Students choose to take it or rather colleges tell them to take it so that it is more comparable to the SAT, and to get a general idea of what that persons essay writing capabilities are.</p>