PSAT
October 11, 2017 for all juniors!
Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test
Here are some of the features of the test:
- The test takes two hours and 45 minutes
- The test contains an Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component
- Reading Test
- Writing and Language Test
- The test contains a Math component
- The test focuses on the knowledge, skills, and understandings that research has identified as most important for college and career readiness and success
- There is greater emphasis on the meaning of words in extended contexts and on how word choice shapes meaning, tone, and impact
- Rights-only scoring (no penalty for guessing)
- Scores will be reported on a shared common score scale with the SAT: The scale ranges for the PSAT/NMSQT scores are 320–1520 for the total score, 160–760 for each of two section scores, and 8–38 for test scores.
- The CollegeBoard will provide subscores for every test, providing added insight for students and parents -- these should be available in mid-December
Test Length and Times
The Writing and Language section has 44 questions to be answered in 35 minutes.
The Math section has 48 questions to be answered in 70 minutes.
Why take the PSAT this October?
Students in 11th grade may be eligible for the National Merit Scholarship program and other programs that use PSAT/NMSQT scores.
SAT Advantage
The PSAT/NMSQT and the SAT have the same format and evaluate the same skills. Both tests have been redesigned, so taking the new PSAT this fall will prepare students for the new SAT next year.
Feedback on Strengths and Weaknesses
After the test, students receive feedback on how ready they are for college and access to tools that help them improve.
Online College Planning
Students get free access to My College QuickStartTM. Features include an interactive score report, a personality test, major and career suggestions, and a starter list of colleges.
Students who opt in on test day receive free information about admission and financial aid from colleges, universities, and scholarship programs that are interested in them.
See what's on the test
Find out what kinds of questions you’ll see on the PSAT/NMSQT
PRACTICE!
Start practicing with these sample questions:
- Math Sample Questions
- Reading Sample Questions
- Writing and Language Sample Questions
- Essay Sample Questions
You can download a paper & pencil the version of the test and an answer sheet. Simulate test day by printing and taking the practice test. You’ll need a pencil, calculator, and timer. Here are some tips:
- Mark your answers in the correct row of circles on the answer sheet. Be especially careful if you skip questions.
- It’s okay to guess. You won’t lose any points if you’re wrong.
- Learn how to enter your answers on math grid-ins.
When you take the practice test, use the answer sheet just as you would on test day.
Here are the answer explanations.
You can also practice at Khan Academy®, where you’ll find thousands of questions approved by the College Board, four official SAT practice tests, and personalized study plans based on your results.
When, Where, How to Sign Up
Some of the schools are asking for a donation of $25 to cover the cost of administering the exam.