What Is the PSAT?

Key Points

1. The test is designed to be completed in one sitting.
   
2. A short break is usually given after the Reading section.
   
3. Time management is crucial, as each section is tightly timed.
   
4. The PSAT no longer has separate “No Calculator” and “Calculator” math sections—students may use a calculator throughout the Math section

Introduction

Around 3.5 million students took the PSAT in 2024 to prepare for the SAT and to be eligible for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Students take the Preliminary SAT, or PSAT, to determine their eligibility for scholarships. The purpose of the exam is to evaluate high school students’ reading, writing, and math abilities.

With a maximum score of 1520, the PSAT helps students evaluate how prepared they are for the SAT and highlights areas for improvement. There are two benefits to preparing for the PSAT: it improves SAT scores and increases the chance of receiving scholarships depending on your performance and score.

Many students use their PSAT results to boost their confidence before the exam and to prepare for the SAT.

What Types of Merit Scholarships Are Awarded?

Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on several criteria, including leadership, academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and standardized test performance, such as the PSAT. These scholarships reduce educational expenses by providing financial assistance to deserving students.

Common types include:

1. National Merit Scholarships – Based on PSAT scores and academic performance
2. Corporate-Sponsored Scholarships – Offered by businesses to children of employees or based on career interests
3. College-Sponsored Merit Awards – Provided by universities to attract top-performing students
4. Private Organization Scholarships – Given by nonprofits or foundations for various academic and leadership achievements
   

Note: Each type varies in amount, eligibility, and renewal criteria.

What Is the Value of the PSAT?

There is more than one use for the PSAT besides just being a practice test. It helps students get scholarships, gives them early information on how ready they are for school, and helps them plan for college in the long run. Here are some of its most important benefits:

Benefit	Details
SAT Preparation	Mimics SAT format and timing, helping students practice under real test conditions and identify areas for improvement.
Scholarship Eligibility	Qualifies 11th-grade students for the National Merit Scholarship Program, which awards over $33 million annually.
Academic Feedback	Provides a detailed score report that shows strengths and weaknesses in Reading, Writing, and Math.
Career Planning Tools	Includes access to College Board and Khan Academy resources for targeted test prep and career exploration.
College Recruitment	High scores may attract interest from colleges through the Student Search Service, leading to early outreach and scholarship offers.
Confidence Building	Reduces test anxiety by familiarizing students with standardized test procedures before taking the actual SAT.
Max Score	The PSAT has a maximum score of 1520, helping students estimate their potential SAT performance and set realistic college admission goals.

How Is the PSAT Timed?

The PSAT is structured to assess students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills across three main sections: Reading, Writing & Language, and Math. The total test duration is 2 hours and 14 minutes, excluding breaks.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of PSAT timing:

Section	Number of Questions	Time Allotted
Reading	27 questions	32 minutes
Writing & Language	27 questions	32 minutes
Math	44 questions	70 minutes
Total	98 questions	134 minutes

What Is a Good PSAT Score?

A good PSAT score depends on your goals, but generally, a composite score above 1150 is considered strong and places students above the national average. For those aiming for the National Merit Scholarship, a score between 1400 and 1520 is typically needed, depending on your state’s cutoff. The PSAT is scored between 320 and 1520, combining the Math and Evidence-Based Reading & Writing sections. High scores not only boost scholarship chances but also reflect strong college readiness. Students can use their PSAT results to plan SAT prep and strengthen academic areas before taking college entrance exams.

How Long Is the PSAT?

How to Prepare for the PSAT?

Preparing for the PSAT helps students improve test performance, identify strengths, and build confidence for future standardized exams.

1. Understand the Test Format: Learn the structure, question types, and timing of each section.
2. Take a Practice Test: Start with a full-length PSAT practice test
3. Review Score Reports: Identify strengths and areas needing improvement from practice test results.
4. Use Official Study Materials: Rely on trusted sources like College Board and Khan Academy for prep.
5. Build a Study Plan: Set a schedule to cover all sections over time with regular practice.
6. Focus on Weak Areas: Spend extra time on topics or sections where your score is lower.
7. Improve Time Management: Practice answering questions within the set time limits.
8. Read Daily: Build reading comprehension and vocabulary by reading newspapers, articles, or books.
9. Take More Practice Tests: Simulate real test conditions for better readiness.

FAQ’s