Description
What is the PSAT OR PSAT/NMSQT?
The PSAT stands for Preliminary SAT. It’s a standardized test offered by the College Board that serves as a practice version of the SAT. It also acts as a qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program (NMSQT) in the United States.
Why Take the PSAT?
- Get comfortable with the SAT format
- Gain access to National Merit scholarships
- Identify your academic strengths and weaknesses early
Who can take it?
- Primarily for 11th grade students (juniors)
- ONLY this version qualifies U.S. students for the National Merit Scholarship Program
- Highly recommended for strong academic students aiming for scholarships and recognition
- Some schools may also allow 10th graders to take it for early practice (though they cannot qualify for National Merit at that grade)
Online Tutoring Key Features.
- Online Live Interactive Classes.
- Experienced Faculty.
- Small Groups.
- New Batches Every Month.
- Weekday & Weekend Schedules.
- Full-length Practice Tests.
- Practice Test for Math & Reading & Writing Sections.
The following topics will be covered in PSAT Test Prep Tutoring.
Reading & Writing
Core Skills:
- Reading comprehension
- Vocabulary in context
- Grammar and usage
- Punctuation
- Rhetorical skills
Reading Topics:
- Literary fiction
- Historical documents
- Social science
- Natural science
Writing & Language Topics:
- Sentence structure
- Verb tense
- Pronoun-antecedent agreement
- Parallel structure
- Punctuation (commas, apostrophes, colons)
- Word choice and clarity
Math
Core Skills:
- Algebra I & II
- Problem-solving and data analysis
- Geometry basics
- Introductory trigonometry
Topics to Cover:
- Linear equations and inequalities
- Systems of equations
- Ratios and proportions
- Percents and unit conversions
- Quadratic equations
- Functions (linear, exponential)
- Statistics (mean, median, mode, probability)
- Coordinate geometry and word problems
Frequently Asked Questions.
GENERAL QUESTIONS
What is the PSAT?
The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) is a standardized test administered by the College Board. It is a practice version of the SAT and also serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship (only in 11th grade).
Are there different types of PSAT?
Yes. The PSAT has three versions:
| Version | Grade Level | Purpose |
| PSAT 8/9 | Grades 8–9 | Early exposure to standardized testing |
| PSAT 10 | Grade 10 | Practice for the SAT, no scholarships |
| PSAT/NMSQT | Grade 11 | SAT prep + National Merit Scholarship |
Is the PSAT required for college admission?
No. The PSAT is not required for college applications, but it helps students prepare for the SAT and may lead to scholarship opportunities .
WHO CAN TAKE IT
Who can take the PSAT?
- PSAT 8/9: 8th and 9th grade students
- PSAT 10: 10th grade students
- PSAT/NMSQT: 11th grade students (to qualify for scholarships)
- Some 10th graders may take the PSAT/NMSQT for practice, but cannot qualify for National Merit
Can international students take the PSAT?
Yes, students worldwide can take the PSAT if offered at their school or test center.
However, only U.S. citizens and permanent residents can qualify for National Merit Scholarships.
SCORING & RESULTS
What is the PSAT scored out of?
- Total score ranges from 320 to 1520
- Each section (Reading/Writing and Math) is scored from 160 to 760
What is a good PSAT score?
- 75th percentile: ~1150+
- National Merit threshold (varies by state): ~1400+
Scores help indicate college readiness and SAT preparedness.
When are PSAT scores released?
Scores are typically released 4–6 weeks after the test date, usually in early December.
How do I access my PSAT scores?
Scores are available online at the College Board website. You’ll need to create or log into your College Board account.
NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS
How do I qualify for the National Merit Scholarship?
- Take the PSAT/NMSQT in 11th grade
- Score in the top 1% of your state
- Meet academic, citizenship, and application requirements
What scholarships are linked to the PSAT?
- National Merit Scholarship Program
- Additional scholarships from corporations, colleges, and foundations for semifinalists/finalists
How is the PSAT different from the SAT?
| Feature | PSAT | SAT |
| Total Score | 320–1520 | 400–1600 |
| Essay | Not included | Not included (retired) |
| Scholarship Use | National Merit only (11th) | College admissions, scholarships |
| Difficulty Level | Slightly easier | More advanced |
How many times can I take the PSAT?
- PSAT 8/9: multiple times (if offered by school)
- PSAT 10 and PSAT/NMSQT: once per year
How is the PSAT administered?
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The 2025 PSAT/NMSQT will be administered during the month of October, with the testing window running from October 1st to October 31st.
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Taken at school in October
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