The Perfect Score

Kyle, a high school senior, is determined to achieve a high SAT score to gain admission to Cornell University's celebrated architecture program. His aspirations are fueled by his desire to escape the overshadowing presence of his older brother, Larry, who remains reclusive in their parents' garage.

Kyle's best friend Matty is equally focused on improving his SAT score to meet his girlfriend's expectations at Cornell. Despite his lackluster PSAT performance, Matty's determination mirrors Kyle's, amplifying their shared goal of academic success.

In a moment of frustration about the SAT's challenges, Kyle and Matty devise a plan to obtain the test answers from Francesca Curtis, whose father runs the building that houses the ETS office. Initially hesitant, Francesca agrees to join their scheme, viewing it as an adventurous challenge.

As the plan progresses, Kyle develops feelings for Anna Ross, the top student at their school. This complicates their plan as Anna, who has struggled academically, also hopes for a strong SAT score to qualify for Brown University.

Tensions rise when Matty becomes anxious about Anna’s involvement in the scheme. To manage the escalating situation, they bring in Roy, a laid-back stoner, to help with the operation, further diversifying their group of friends.

The group makes their first attempt to infiltrate the ETS offices, but things go horribly wrong, leading to their strategy being swiftly abandoned. Faced with failure, they regroup and reconsider their approach, determined to salvage their plan.

With the SAT looming, Francesca organizes a covert meeting for Kyle and Matty on the building's upper floor, while the remaining group keeps watch for the night guard. The stage is set for their potentially illicit operation.

As they begin their operation, the group manages to evade security cameras and dodge the watchful night guard with surprising efficiency. However, they soon discover that the test answers are stored on a protected computer, which requires Roy's unique skills to access.

Roy successfully hacks into the computer, allowing the group to gain access to the test answers. They realize, however, that their plan to simply print the answers is unfeasible, which prompts them to take the test themselves instead.

As dawn approaches, the group completes the SAT exam, but their escape is complicated when the night guard unexpectedly nears. In a heroic moment, Matty sacrifices himself to ensure the others get away safely, highlighting the growing bonds within the group.

As they reflect on their actions, the group grapples with the ethical implications of their plan. Kyle is particularly affected by his brother's harsh criticism, while Matty, now safe with Francesca, begins to see the consequences of their collective choices.

Gathered in a bathroom, the friends confront their guilt over their attempted cheating. Roy, overwhelmed by his emotions, distributes the answers he had taken, leading to a poignant moment where the group's sense of camaraderie begins to dissolve under their shared guilt.

With the realization that their ambitions were hollow, the group decides against cheating. Each member reflects on their true aspirations, leading to personal growth and a deeper understanding of their values and relationships.

In the end, each member manages to attain their desired SAT scores without cheating. Kyle pursues architecture at Syracuse, Desmond gains a spot at St. John's, Matty follows acting, and Roy transitions to a programming career, showcasing the power of hard work and integrity.

As each character embarks on their journeys, they carry with them the lessons learned from their experiences. Through trials and triumphs, they navigate their paths, guided by new friendships and strengthened resolve.