PSAT
What is the PSAT and how is it structured?
The PSAT/NMSQT is given each October to more than one million
high school students. Most juniors and some sophomores take
it, gaining valuable experience with standardized tests. Essentially,
the PSATs a practice SAT. It is also used as a qualifying
test for National Merit Scholarships (see below).
The PSAT has five sections: two Verbal, two Math, and one
Writing Skills. The Verbal and Math sections contain the same
kinds of questions as the SAT. The questions on the Writing
Skills section are very similar to the multiple-choice questions
on the SAT Subject Tests Subject Test in Writing. These questions include
identifying sentence errors, and improving sentences and paragraphs.
The good news ?no essays!
How is the PSAT scored?
You will receive three scores on the PSAT, one for Math, one
for Verbal, and one for Writing Skills. Each subject is scored
on a scale of 20 to 80. Average scores are near the midpoint
(50) of the scale.
How important are my PSAT scores?
Your PSAT scores will not seen by colleges and therefore do
not impact the college admission process. However, they are
the only qualifying criteria for National Merit Scholarships
and National Achievement Scholarships. Specific information
about these scholarship programs and the criteria for selection
can be found in the PSAT/NMSQT Student Bulletin sent
to high schools for distribution to students. Talk to your
guidance counselor about obtaining a copy.
When should I take the PSAT?
The PSATs offered every year only in October (see table
below for upcoming PSAT dates and registration guidelines).
Students have traditionally taken the PSAT in the fall of
their junior year. However, if the school allows it, it's a
good idea to take the PSAT in the fall of sophomore year.
This gives you more flexibility to gauge your preparedness
for the SAT, and allows more time to take SAT Subject Tests, the ACT,
or the SAT one or more times.
How do I register for the PSAT?
You must sign up for the test at your high school or a school
in your community. The test is administered by high schools,
not through test centers. Online registration for the PSAT/NMSQT
is NOT available.
If you want to take the PSAT/NMSQT, contact your guidance
counselor or principal to find about registering for the tests.
Your guidance office should have a copy of the PSAT/NMSQT
Student Bulletin to help you prepare.
PSAT Clinics
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