Is the PSAT mandatory or optional, and what happens if you don’t get a good score?

So, I’ve got the PSAT coming up, and I’m not going to lie, preparation hasn't been my strong suit. Do you have to 'pass' the PSAT for any reason, or is it okay if you don’t do well?

Hi there! I understand the PSAT can seem like a big deal, but it's important to remember that the PSAT is not mandatory, and there's no such thing as 'passing' or 'failing' the test. The PSAT serves primarily as a practice for the SAT and is also the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship. If you don’t get a good score, it won’t affect your college admissions opportunities directly.

That said, doing well can give you a good indication of how you might perform on the SAT. Consider it a low-stakes opportunity to identify areas where you might need to focus your studies if you plan on taking the SAT later on. A less-than-ideal PSAT score doesn't go on your record or get sent to colleges. It’s a diagnostic tool for you and your school to assess where you are in the testing process.

If you're looking to improve your score for the next PSAT or gearing up for the SAT, it's a good idea to review the areas where you found the test challenging. There are plenty of free resources out there, like College Board's practice materials and Khan Academy, which can help you prepare. Don’t let a low score discourage you; use it as a learning experience to better prepare for future standardized tests!