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CollegeVine Expert FAQ

Explore our collection of admissions FAQs. Each answer is expert-approved by our team to help you reach your goals.


Missed the PSAT – any chance for a do-over?

Oops, I wasn't feeling well on test day and missed the PSAT. Is there a make-up date, or do I have to wait till next year? I'm a bit stressed because I don't want this to mess up my prep for the SAT.

2 years ago

Will scoring a 1500 on the PSAT give me a significant edge in admissions?

I somehow scored a 1500 on my PSAT and I'm stoked! But I'm curious, does this actually give me a leg up in the college admissions process, or do schools not place much weight on this test?

2 years ago

Writing about a TV show for college essay—too trivial?

I've had this profound experience related to a TV show and its themes, and I'm contemplating using this as the central theme of my college essay. Is it okay to talk about a TV show, or does it seem tr …

2 years ago

PSAT's importance for scholarships – is it a big deal?

So I've heard some ppl say that the PSAT can actually get you scholarships, and others say it doesn't matter at all. What's the real deal? Should I be studying hard for the PSAT to try and get some co …

2 years ago

How's the math section in the PSAT structured?

Hey guys, I’m a bit anxious about the math part of the PSAT. Can anyone share what kind of math topics I should prepare for and how advanced they are? I want to make sure I've covered everything I nee …

2 years ago

How to access PSAT scores after you've taken the exam

This might be a dumb question, but how do you get your PSAT scores after the test? I took it and honestly just forgot to ask my counselor about the process. Do they email you, or do you have to login …

2 years ago

Is there a science section on the PSAT?

I've been practicing for the PSAT and I know there's Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, but I haven't seen anything about a science section? Is that part of the test or am I mixing it up wit …

2 years ago

Can I apply to Penn State via the Common App?

Anyone knows if Penn State is on the Common App? Or do they use a separate application portal?

2 years ago

Should I guess on tricky questions during the PSAT?

I’ve heard there’s no penalty for guessing on the PSAT, but I’m kinda anxious about it. Is it actually better to take a shot at answering questions I’m unsure of, rather than leaving them blank? Don’t …

2 years ago

Do PSAT 8/9 scores play any significant role?

So, I took the PSAT 8/9 a while back and I was just wondering, does this score actually matter for anything in the long run? I've heard a lot about the regular PSAT but not much about the 8/9 version.

2 years ago

What to know for the PSAT and how to best prepare?

With the PSAT coming up, I want to make sure I'm not missing anything crucial. What are the key things to know for the PSAT, and does anyone have strategies for effective preparation? Any advice would …

2 years ago

PSAT as a sophomore – pros and cons?

I'm a sophomore and thinking about taking the PSAT early. Has anyone here done that? What are the benefits or drawbacks? I’m trying to plan out my test schedule and want to make the best decision.

2 years ago

What’s on the Common App Teacher Recommendation Form?

So I'm starting to think about who to ask for letters of recommendation, and I want to give my teachers a heads-up on what to expect. Anyone know what's on the Common App teacher recommendation form, …

2 years ago

How to become a National Merit Scholar through the PSAT?

I've been hearing a lot about the National Merit Scholarship and I know it's connected to the PSAT. Can anybody explain how this works and what I need to do to become a National Merit Scholar? Thanks …

2 years ago

Missed the PSAT: Is There a Second Chance?

Feeling a bit anxious here. If I can’t take the PSAT on the official testing day (got a family thing that might conflict), is there a chance I can take it on another day? Like, do they offer a makeup …

2 years ago

Should 8th graders seriously consider taking the PSAT?

Our school counselor mentioned that 8th graders can take the PSAT as practice, but I'm wondering if it's really worthwhile? Does it give a decent measure of where you stand or is it too early to be th …

2 years ago

Do you have to take the PSAT in 10th Grade?

Hi folks. So I heard from my counselor about taking the PSAT in 10th grade, but I'm not sure if it's a must or just a suggestion. Does anyone know if it's a requirement or is it something that's recom …

2 years ago

Where to find your PSAT access code if you've lost it?

Ugh, I can't seem to find the access code I need for my PSAT scores. Has anyone been in this situation before? How did you recover your access code? Need some help here, thanks!

2 years ago

Is it necessary to sign up for the PSAT or is it automatic?

Okay, so I'm a bit confused about the whole PSAT process. Do you automatically get enrolled to take it at your high school, or do you need to sign up for it? I've heard some friends talking about it a …

2 years ago

What topics should I touch on in my college essay?

Hey everyone! I’m kinda stressing about what to include in my personal statement for college apps. I want to stand out but also show who I am. Does anyone have any advice on topics or themes that work …

2 years ago
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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.