When should I take the PSAT?

There are a few different PSAT tests students can take. PSAT 8/9: For 8th and 9th graders, administered throughout the school year. Shorter and less complex than the PSAT/NMSQT. PSAT 10: Taken in the spring of sophomore year. Identical to the PSAT/NMSQT, but doesn’t qualify for National Merit Scholarships. PSAT/NMSQT: Taken in the fall of junior year. Identical to the PSAT 10, but it can qualify you for National Merit Scholarships.

When should I start preparing for the PSAT?

The PSAT 8/9 and 10 are good markers of baseline scores. Once a student takes these, they know how much preparation they want to do for a certain goal PSAT score. Students should spend the summer before junior year preparing so they’re ready to take the official PSAT/NMSQT in the fall of junior year (this one qualifies for National Merit Scholarships).

What is the benefit of the PSAT?

The PSAT is a great test to take for a few reasons. SAT Score Prediction: The PSAT gives a good indication of your future SAT score, helping you gauge progress and identify strengths and weaknesses. Targeted Practice: It highlights areas needing improvement, making SAT preparation more effective. Even 20 hours of targeted practice can significantly boost your SAT score. Scholarship Opportunities: High PSAT scores can qualify for National Merit Scholarships and other awards. Opt into the Student Search Service for more scholarship opportunities. School Requirements: Many high schools require the PSAT, often covering the cost. Check with your guidance counselor for specifics.

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FAQs

Get more insights on the different PSAT exams, goal scores, and more.

There are a few different PSAT tests students can take.

PSAT 8/9: For 8th and 9th graders, administered throughout the school year. Shorter and less complex than the PSAT/NMSQT.
PSAT 10: Taken in the spring of sophomore year. Identical to the PSAT/NMSQT, but doesn’t qualify for National Merit Scholarships.
PSAT/NMSQT: Taken in the fall of junior year. Identical to the PSAT 10, but it can qualify you for National Merit Scholarships.

Students should use the official College Board PSAT Bluebook practice test as well as Acely’s 10+ full-length practice tests to make sure they are getting consistent practice.

They can see their projected scores on both, and with Acely’s dashboard, they can see their strengths and weaknesses, so they know how to target their practice. After that, students should consistently use Acely’s practice question bank to work on their weakest topics.

The PSAT is a great test to take for a few reasons.

SAT Score Prediction: The PSAT gives a good indication of your future SAT score, helping you gauge progress and identify strengths and weaknesses.
Targeted Practice: It highlights areas needing improvement, making SAT preparation more effective. Even 20 hours of targeted practice can significantly boost your SAT score.
Scholarship Opportunities: High PSAT scores can qualify for National Merit Scholarships and other awards. Opt into the Student Search Service for more scholarship opportunities.
School Requirements: Many high schools require the PSAT, often covering the cost. Check with your guidance counselor for specifics.