Preliminary SAT Test
The PSAT/NMSQT, or Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, is a standardized test that prepares students for the SAT and it also gives students an opportunity to qualify for scholarships. The PSAT is a computer adaptive test.
The PSAT has a structure similar to the SAT. It consists of two main sections Reading and Writing, and Math. Each section consists of two modules of equal length with a 10-minute break in between. The first module contains questions of varying difficulty (easy, medium, hard), and the second module’s difficulty is determined by the student’s performance on the first. This is known as adaptive testing. The exam takes 2 hours and 14 minutes to complete. and is scored on a scale of 320-1520.
The PSAT 8/9 is offered to students in the 8th and 9th grade. The PSAT 10 is offered to students in the 10th grade. The PSAT 10 does not qualify students for the National Merit Scholarship.
The main differences between the PSAT and SAT are the following:
There is no penalty for guessing or getting incorrect answers on the PSAT, so make sure to answer every question!
Computer Adaptive Test
Evaluates the ability to understand passages and answer questions pertaining to main ideas, vocabulary, supporting details and inference. It assesses Command of Evidence, Vocabulary and Standard English Conventions (grammar, punctuation and sentence structure). The passages are short with one question per passage. The passages cover topics like literature, social studies, humanities and science. Some questions may be accompanied by graphs or tables.
Evaluates math skills and the ability to apply math concepts to real world scenarios. It consists of Algebra, Advanced Math, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, Geometry and Trigonometry.
Understanding the PSAT test format and policies helps students prepare effectively and
perform their best.
Flexible Testing
Computer-based test.
Grade-Appropriate
2 hours and 14 minutes in total.
Mental Math Focus
A built-in graphing calculator is available for the entire Math Section. Students may also bring their own approved calculator.
Fair Assessment
The total score ranges from 320-1520. The total score consists of two section scores: Reading and Writing (160-760) and Math (160-760). There is no penalty for incorrect answers.
Multiple Opportunities
Students can use tools to highlight text, cross out answer choices, and make notes. Students can flag questions and return to them later.
Detailed Results
Students can use their own laptops or tablets or school-issued devices.
The PSAT plays a pivotal role in the admissions process, providing schools with a standardized measure to evaluate academic readiness across diverse student populations. It helps schools make informed decisions about student placement and predict future academic success.
