If you’re in 10th or 11th grade, you’ve probably heard about the PSAT, but what exactly is it? Do you need to take it, and will it help you get into college? Let’s clear up the confusion and help you decide if the PSAT is worth your time.
What the PSAT Actually Is
The PSAT stands for Preliminary SAT. It’s a shorter, practice version of the SAT, designed to give students a preview of what the real SAT is like. Most students take the PSAT in October of 10th or 11th grade, and it’s administered through your high school.
There are different versions:
- PSAT 8/9 for 8th and 9th graders
- PSAT 10 for 10th grade
- PSAT/NMSQT for 11th grade (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test)
Why Do Students Take the PSAT?
- Practice: It helps you get familiar with the SAT format, question types, and timing.
- Feedback: You get a score report showing strengths and weaknesses.
- Scholarships: The PSAT/NMSQT is the qualifying test for National Merit and other scholarship programs.
- Planning: It helps you decide whether to take the SAT, ACT, or both.
Should You Take the SAT or ACT (or Neither)?
How the PSAT Is Scored
The PSAT is scored on a scale of 320–1520, slightly lower than the SAT’s 400–1600. You’ll get scores for:
- Reading & Writing
- Math
- Total Score (combined)
You’ll also receive subscores and percentiles to help you understand how you compare nationally.
Does the PSAT Affect College Admissions?
Not directly. Colleges do not use PSAT scores when making admissions decisions. But doing well on the PSAT can qualify you for scholarships, and it can help you prepare for success on the SAT or ACT. Additionally, you can release your scores and if you do well you may have colleges trying to recruit you.
How to Study for the SAT or ACT Without Losing Your Mind
What Is a Test-Optional School?
How to Decide If You Should Take It
Take the PSAT if:
- Your school offers it for free or at low cost.
- You want to practice for the SAT in a low-pressure setting.
- You’re aiming for competitive scholarships.
Skip it only if:
- You’re already focused on the ACT or test-optional schools.
- You’re overwhelmed with other priorities and don’t need the practice.
Even if those situations apply to you, taking it keeps your options open.
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Test Prep
Bottom Line
The PSAT is optional, but it can be useful. Think of it as a low-stakes way to explore your test-taking skills and get on track for college planning.