The PSAT, or Preliminary SAT, is a standardized test that is given to high school students in the United States. It is a multiple-choice test that covers reading, writing and language, and math. The PSAT is used to prepare students for the SAT, which is a college entrance exam.
The PSAT score range is 320-1520. A score of 1200 or higher is considered to be good. The average PSAT score for the class of 2023 was 1060.
Do PSATs Matter?
The answer to this question is a resounding yes. PSATs matter for a number of reasons.
- PSAT scores are used to determine eligibility for National Merit Scholarships. National Merit Scholarships are prestigious scholarships that are awarded to high-scoring students. In 2023, about 16,000 National Merit Scholarships were awarded.
- PSAT scores are used to determine eligibility for National Hispanic Recognition Program (NHRP) awards. NHRP awards are given to high-scoring Hispanic students. In 2023, about 7,000 NHRP awards were given.
- PSAT scores are used to determine eligibility for College Board scholarships. College Board scholarships are given to high-scoring students who take the SAT or PSAT. In 2023, about $32 million in College Board scholarships were awarded.
- PSAT scores can be used to get a sense of your college readiness. PSAT scores can help you identify areas where you need to improve your academic skills.
- PSAT scores can help you choose the right college for you. PSAT scores can help you determine which colleges are a good fit for your academic abilities and interests.
How to Prepare for the PSAT
There are a number of things you can do to prepare for the PSAT.
- Take a practice test. The best way to prepare for the PSAT is to take a practice test. This will help you get a sense of the format of the test and the types of questions that you will be asked.
- Review the test content. The PSAT covers reading, writing and language, and math. Make sure that you are familiar with the content of the test before you take it.
- Get a good night’s sleep before the test. This will help you to be well-rested and focused on the test.
- Eat a healthy breakfast before the test. This will help you to have the energy that you need to perform your best on the test.
Test-Taking Tips
Here are a few test-taking tips that can help you improve your PSAT score.
- Read the instructions carefully. Make sure that you understand the instructions for each section of the test.
- Answer the questions that you know first. This will help you to save time and avoid getting stuck on difficult questions.
- Guess on the questions that you don’t know. There is no penalty for guessing on the PSAT, so guess on the questions that you are unsure about.
- Check your work. Make sure that you have answered all of the questions and that your answers are correct.
Benefits of Taking the PSAT
There are a number of benefits to taking the PSAT.
- The PSAT can help you to identify areas where you need to improve your academic skills. This can help you to improve your grades and your chances of getting into college.
- The PSAT can help you to choose the right college for you. PSAT scores can help you determine which colleges are a good fit for your academic abilities and interests.
- The PSAT can help you to earn scholarships. PSAT scores are used to determine eligibility for a number of scholarships, including National Merit Scholarships and College Board scholarships.
- The PSAT can help you to get a head start on college applications. PSAT scores can be used to create a college application profile, which can help you to stand out from other applicants.
Conclusion
The PSAT is an important test that can help you to achieve your academic goals. If you are a high school student, I encourage you to take the PSAT. It is a great way to prepare for the SAT, identify areas where you need to improve your academic skills, and choose the right college for you.
PSAT Scores and College Admissions
PSAT scores are not required for college admissions, but they can be helpful. Many colleges use PSAT scores to determine which students to admit. PSAT scores can also be used to place students into appropriate college courses.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 90% of colleges and universities consider PSAT scores when making admissions decisions. However, the weight that colleges give to PSAT scores varies. Some colleges place more emphasis on PSAT scores than others.
If you are applying to a selective college, you should aim for a PSAT score that is above the average score for that college. You can find the average PSAT score for any college by visiting the college’s website.
How to Use Your PSAT Scores
Once you have received your PSAT scores, you can use them to your advantage. Here are a few tips:
- Create a college application profile. Your PSAT scores can be used to create a college application profile. This profile can be used to show colleges your academic achievements and your potential.
- Apply for scholarships. PSAT scores are used to determine eligibility for a number of scholarships, including National Merit Scholarships and College Board scholarships.
- Get a head start on college applications. PSAT scores can be used to get a head start on college applications. You can use your PSAT scores to identify colleges that are a good fit for you and to start writing your college essays.
Pros and Cons of Taking the PSAT
Here are some of the pros and cons of taking the PSAT:
Pros:
- Can help you to identify areas where you need to improve your academic skills.
- Can help you to choose the right college for you.
- Can help you to earn scholarships.
- Can help you to get a head start on college applications.
Cons:
- Can be stressful.
- Can be expensive.
- Does not guarantee admission to college.
Alternatives to the PSAT
If you are not sure whether or not you want to take the PSAT, there are a number of other options available to you. Here are a few alternatives to the PSAT:
- SAT. The SAT is a college entrance exam that is required by most colleges and universities.
- ACT. The ACT is a college entrance exam that is accepted by most colleges and universities.
- ASVAB. The ASVAB is a military entrance exam that can be used to qualify for military service.
- GED. The GED is a high school equivalency exam that can be used to earn a high school diploma.
Ultimately, the best way to decide whether or not to take the PSAT is to talk to your high school guidance counselor. Your guidance counselor can help you to assess your academic needs and goals and make the best decision for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About the PSAT
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the PSAT:
Q: When is the PSAT given?
A: The PSAT is given in October of each year.
Q: How long is the PSAT?
A: The PSAT is 2 hours and 45 minutes long.
Q: How much does the PSAT cost?
A: The PSAT costs $180.
Q: Who should take the PSAT?
A: The PSAT is recommended for all high school students who are planning to attend college.
Q: What is a good PSAT score?
A: A good PSAT score is 1200 or higher.
Q: What are National Merit Scholarships?
A: National Merit Scholarships are prestigious scholarships that are awarded to high-scoring students on the PSAT.
Q: What are NHRP awards?
A: NHRP awards are given to high-scoring Hispanic students on the PSAT.
Q: What are College Board scholarships?
A: College Board scholarships are given to high-scoring students on the SAT or PSAT.
Q: Can I take the PSAT more than once?
A: Yes, you can take the PSAT as many times as you want. However, your highest score will be the only one that is used for scholarship and college admissions purposes.
