Hey guys, stressed junior here. With PSAT season around the corner, I just wanted to know what's the highest score you can get on it? I want to aim high but not sure where the ceiling is. Any info would be appreciated!
Hello! The PSAT, also known as the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, is a counterparts to the SAT but has a slightly different scoring system. The maximum score possible on the PSAT is 1520. It contains two sections—Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing—each of which is scored out of 760, for a combined total.
It's important to understand that the PSAT is a practice test, albeit one that could qualify you as a National Merit Scholar if you score in the top percentile in your state. So try to approach it as a way to practice and identify areas where you need to improve rather than a high-stakes test in and of itself. The primary goal should be to gain familiarity with the types of questions and the pacing of the SAT, so you're better prepared when you take that test.
If you'd like a gauge of where your PSAT score might land in the SAT scoring range, there is a conversion, but it's not exactly 1-to-1. For example, an 1150 on the PSAT is roughly an 1180 on the SAT. This difference is due to slight variations in content difficulty and test structure between the PSAT and SAT.
Best of luck with your studying! Remember quality prep time, understanding the test structure, and relaxing before the test day are key steps towards getting a good score.
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