While the state's SAT average is only 10 points away from the national average, Edgecombe is more than 100 points away from the state and national average.

Statistics released on Tuesday on SAT scores show that the national average on math and reading is 1,017, the state's average is 1,007 and Edgecombe average is 886.

Among the four high schools in Edgecombe County, North Edgecombe's average was the closest to the state with an average of 918.

The newest addition to the test in 2005 was the writing portion which gives students the opportunity to earn up to 2,400 points. The data from the writing scores wasn't used to analyze the county, state or national average in this report.

Although the test is administered based on the student's preference, Edgecombe had 176 students take the test this year.

Edgecombe County has taken measures over the last two years to get more students interested in taking the assessment.

Each October, all students expect seniors get the opportunity to take the PSAT to prep them for taking the SAT.

"All students in grades 9-11, we pay for them to take the test," said Curtis Jones, director of secondary education.

The test are administered as apart of the PSAT Early Participation Program through the College Board.

The program provides the schools with individualized reports on how their students did on the test.

"It provides the opportunity for each school in the district to evaluate it's instructional program," Jones said.

The SAT is one of the most popular tests taken in North Carolina. The test is required by most colleges and universities for admission.

For more information on the SAT, visit the state Department of Public Instruction Web site at www.dpi.state.nc.us