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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
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Whats PSAT testing?

I keep hearing about PSAT testing, but I don't really know what it is. Can someone give me some info on what the PSAT is, its purpose, and when I should take it?

9 months ago

The PSAT, or Preliminary SAT, is a standardized test administered by the College Board. It serves as both a practice test for the SAT and a qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program. The PSAT is typically taken by high school sophomores and juniors as a way to familiarize themselves with the SAT format, assess their readiness, and identify areas for improvement.

There are two versions of the PSAT: the PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) and the PSAT 8/9, which is geared towards younger students (grades 8 and 9). The PSAT/NMSQT is the more significant of the two because it can qualify you for the National Merit Scholarship Program, which offers scholarship opportunities for high-achieving students.

The PSAT consists of two main sections: Reading and Writing, and Math. The test structure is as follows:

- Reading and Writing: two 32-minute modules, to complete 54 questions. You have about 71 seconds per question.

- Math: two 35-minute modules, to complete 44 questions. You have 96 seconds per question, or a little over a minute and a half.

The total duration of the digital PSAT is 134 minutes, to complete 98 questions.

High school students typically take the PSAT/NMSQT in October of their junior year, though some may also take it in their sophomore year for additional practice. The PSAT 8/9 test can be taken by students in the 8th and 9th grade and is often administered in the spring semester.

Your PSAT scores can help you identify your academic strengths and weaknesses, guide your SAT prep efforts, and potentially qualify you for scholarships through the National Merit Scholarship Program. To prepare for the PSAT, you can take practice tests and utilize test prep resources, such as the Bluebook™ app, which allows you to preview the digital PSAT/NMSQT and take a full-length practice test.

Remember that while the PSAT is an important test for the National Merit Scholarship Program, it is primarily a practice tool and will not directly affect your college admissions chances. There are also plenty of other ways to receive financial assistance for college. So instead of stressing too much about your exact score, use your results to guide your preparation for the SAT or ACT, as these tests will play a more significant role in your college application process.

I hope this information clarifies what the PSAT is for you!

9 months ago

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