The story revolves around Kyle, a relatable high school senior focused on achieving a high SAT score to gain admission to Cornell University's prestigious architecture program. He constantly grapples with the overshadowing presence of his older brother Larry, who has become somewhat of a recluse, living above their parents' garage. His best friend Matty, equally determined to excel, aims for a stellar score to join his girlfriend at the same esteemed school, even though his PSAT performance leaves much to be desired. As both friends lament how the SAT feels like an insurmountable barrier to their futures, they hatch a plan.
Their thoughts soon shift toward Francesca Curtis, whose father owns the building that houses the ETS regional office where the coveted test answers are kept. While initially resistant, Francesca eventually warms to their scheme, teasingly stating, > "What the hell? It sounds like fun." Complications arise for Kyle when he develops feelings for Anna Ross, the top student at their school, especially after confiding in her about their plan. Notably, Anna has her own need for a strong SAT score, having previously performed poorly and hoping to qualify for Brown University.
As tensions rise, Matty becomes increasingly anxious over Anna's involvement, which leads to an unexpected inclusion of the stoner Roy into their group. In an attempt to resolve the situation, Anna informs Desmond Rhodes, the school's basketball star, who also needs a score of 900 or better to secure a place on the St. John's University team.
The group's first attempt to breach the ETS offices ends in disaster, prompting a last-minute reshuffle of their strategy. On the eve of the big test, Francesca plans a covert rendezvous for Kyle and Matty on the upper floor, while the other trio keeps a watchful eye on the night guard.
The initial stages of their operation unfold with some success as they navigate through security cameras and evade the vigilant night guard. However, they soon discover that the answers are secured on a computer, necessitating Roy's technical skills to unlock the password. With Roy's attention to detail leading to success, they gain access, but quickly realize that simply printing the answers isn't an option. Consequently, they decide to take the test themselves, collaborating to achieve the scores they desire.
As dawn breaks, they finish the exam, but when the guard approaches the stairs, their frantic escape through the ceiling goes awry, momentarily leaving Francesca exposed. In a brave move, Matty sacrifices himself for her, allowing the others to flee. However, all members face their own ethical dilemmas as the SAT exam looms closer. For Kyle, his brother’s harsh words serve as a jarring wake-up call as he grapples with his moral choices. Matty, rescued by Francesca, finds relief from the potential repercussions of their plan; Anna breaks free from her controlling parents; and Desmond's mother persuades Roy to reconsider his reliance on drugs.
As they all come to terms with their decision not to cheat on the SAT, they collectively realize the emptiness of their previous ambitions. In a moment of vulnerability in the bathroom, Roy hands out the answers he had pilfered. The prevailing sense of guilt among the group is undeniable. Matty reflects on the futility of their efforts, lamenting, > "this whole thing was for nothing." Yet, Kyle offers a more reflective insight, stating, > "I wouldn't say nothing," as he gazes toward Anna, hinting at the budding tension between Matty and Francesca, perhaps signaling the start of a new relationship.
Ultimately, each member of the group manages to secure their desired SAT scores without cheating. Kyle's aspirations for architecture remain steadfast, leading him to pursue a degree at Syracuse University. Desmond earns a seat at St. John's, while Matty follows his passion for acting. Francesca finds her voice through writing, inspired to create a novel about six resourceful teens who plot to steal the answers to the SAT. Anna embarks on a self-discovery journey across Europe before deciding on her educational path. Finally, with guidance from Desmond’s mother, Roy earns his GED and leverages his untapped intellect into a successful career in programming, ultimately becoming a talented video game designer.
