What is the PSAT Used for and What Does the Score Mean?

PSAT/NMSQT is an acronym for Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship  Qualifying Test. More than a standardized test, it is a program  co-sponsored by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation to provide practice for the SAT Reasoning Test  and to allow students to qualify for certain scholarship programs. The PSAT/NMSQT is intended to measure critical reading, math problem solving, and writing skills. Unlike the SAT, students do not write an essay for the PSAT. Although the P stands for preliminary, it may well be viewed as representing practice, a way to try out what the SAT will look and feel like on testing day.

Many students use the PSAT to glean information about their personal strengths and weaknesses to better gauge the need for supplemental preparation. The PSAT score report offers an “improve your skills” section, providing feedback for areas of improvement. The College Board website provides information on how the scores on the PSAT relate to prospective scores on the SAT. Scores from each section of the PSAT are reported on a scale of 20 to 80. The index score is the sum of these scores and is used as the initial screening for National Merit Scholarship qualification. The specific qualifying scores for National Merit consideration are determined yearly on a state by state basis.

What the P should not represent is panic.  PSAT scores are not reported to or requested by colleges. More than anything else, the PSAT is a first foray into the college process.  When used wisely, the results from the test promote thoughtful discussion about academic readiness, tutoring, and general consideration of the college application process.