Skip to main content

CollegeVine Expert FAQ

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


When should you take the PSAT?

Hey everyone, I’m a bit confused about when I’m supposed to take the PSAT. Some of my friends took it sophomore year, while others are saying junior year is the key time. Could someone clarify the ide …

2 years ago

Is a 1030 PSAT score competitive enough for junior year?

Hey everyone! I just got my PSAT scores back and I have a 1030. I'm a sophomore and wondering if this is a good score at this stage? Will this put me in a decent place for the National Merit Scholarsh …

2 years ago

PSAT advice needed - is a score of 1120 showing promise or should I be concerned?

Okay, so, I just got my PSAT results and I scored a 1120... As a sophomore thinking ahead, should I take this as a good sign, or does it mean I've really got to step up my game for junior year? Also, …

2 years ago

Checking PSAT Scores ASAP!

Just a quick question, how can I check my PSAT scores as soon as they're released? I've been told it's through College Board, but I'm not sure about the exact steps. Not trying to freak out about it, …

2 years ago

Average PSAT scores: What should I be aiming for?

Feeling a tad overwhelmed by all the different stats out there. Could someone tell me what the average PSAT scores are typically, or what's considered a 'good' score for a high school junior?

2 years ago

Do colleges look at PSAT scores similarly to SAT scores?

Quick Q: I got my PSAT score back and it's decent, but I'm starting to prep for the SAT and I’m curious. Do colleges view PSAT scores on the same level as SAT ones, or is it mainly just for practice a …

2 years ago

Is the PSAT actually optional, or do some schools require it?

I’ve got a question for y’all - I heard from a friend that their school made them take the PSAT, but mine didn’t really push for it. So, is taking the PSAT optional everywhere, or are there some schoo …

2 years ago

Is a college essay required for every university application?

This might be a newbie question, but do all colleges require an essay when you apply? I'm trying to figure out my schedule and workload, and this would really help with my planning.

2 years ago

When do PSAT results typically come out?

Hey everyone, I'm trying to plan out my study schedule and I'm wondering if anyone knows how long it typically takes to get PSAT results back? I want to make sure I have enough time to review them and …

2 years ago

What's the deal with a 1220 PSAT score - good or bad news?

Hi friends, just got my PSAT score back and it's a 1220. As a junior, is this a score I should be happy with, or is it a wake-up call that I need to seriously get on top of my test prep game? I'm eyei …

2 years ago

Sending the same essay to multiple colleges - is it a no-go?

So, as I'm working on my college apps, I've got a solid essay that I really like. Is it cool to send the exact same one to different schools, or should I be personalizing it for each college? Don't wa …

2 years ago

How do you actually take the PSAT?

Hey there! I'm a high school junior who's trying to map out my testing schedule, and I realized I'm a bit lost on the PSAT. I know it’s important for National Merit and stuff, but how does one actuall …

2 years ago

Is the PSAT available for seniors?

So I heard from a friend who said seniors can't take the PSAT, and I'm a bit confused. Aren't all high school students allowed to take it? Does it have something to do with the National Merit Scholars …

2 years ago

How do my ACT scores impact my transfer application chances?

Hey everyone, I'm thinking about transferring and I've got some concerns about my ACT score. To what extent do ACT scores play a role in transfer admissions? I didn't get the score I had hoped for in …

2 years ago

PSAT format queries - paper or digital?

I’ve heard different things about the PSAT format and I’m a bit confused. For those who have taken it, is the PSAT administered on paper or do we take it on a computer? Just trying to figure out what …

2 years ago

How often can you take the PSAT?

Ok, so I'm planning out my test-taking strategy and I'm a bit confused about the PSAT. Is it a one-and-done deal, or can I take it multiple times like the SAT?

2 years ago

Where do students usually take the PSAT?

Hi, I'm trying to figure out the logistics for the PSAT. Do most students take it at their own high school, or do we need to find a testing center? Also, if our school doesn't offer it, where else cou …

2 years ago

Is writing about religion in college essays okay?

I've been brainstorming topics for my college essays, and I'm considering writing about how my religion has shaped me. Is this a risky topic, or do colleges appreciate essays that reflect on personal …

2 years ago

When is it worth retaking the ACT for college admissions?

Feeling a bit anxious here - got my ACT score back and it's a 21. I'm aiming for schools with slightly higher average scores, so I'm torn about whether I should retake it. What do you think makes a si …

2 years ago

PSAT Scoring System: How many points can you earn?

Hi guys, I’m a bit confused about the PSAT scoring system. How many total points is the PSAT out of? Could someone break down the points per section for me? Thanks!

2 years ago
Displaying questions 171921-171940 of 178042 total
About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ
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.