Topic
Learning resources
Level
High school
Format
Online class
Level
8th - High School
Format
Online class, Video
The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is a standardized test administered by the CollegeBoard and cosponsored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) in the United States. It is intended for high school juniors and serves as a practice test for the SAT Reasoning Test and the SAT Subject Tests. The PSAT is also used to determine eligibility and qualification for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
Most students take the PSAT during their junior year of high school. The test is offered in October, right around the same time as the SAT.
The primary reason to take the PSAT is to see how you might do on the SAT. The test is very similar to the SAT, so it can give you a good idea of what to expect on the big test. Secondly, the PSAT is the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship. This prestigious scholarship is awarded to a select number of high-scoring students each year.
PSAT Preparation can take many different forms, but typically involves becoming familiar with the exam format and content, and practicing with sample questions. There are a number of resources available to help with PSAT Preparation, including books, online courses, and tutoring services.
The most important thing for students to do when preparing for the PSAT is to become familiar with the exam content and format. The exam covers three main areas: critical reading, math, and writing. There is also a section on multiple choice questions. Students should spend time practicing with sample questions in each of these areas so that they are comfortable with the types of questions that will be on the exam.
In addition to content knowledge, students also need to know how to budget their time on the exam. The PSAT is a timed exam, and students will need to pace themselves in order to finish all of the questions. It is important to note that there is no penalty for guessing on the PSAT, so students should not spend too much time on any one question.
There are a number of resources available to help with PSAT Preparation. The College Board website is a good place to start, as it offers a variety of resources, including practice questions and a full-length practice exam. There are also a number of commercial prep courses available, both in person and online. These courses typically provide access to practice materials and offer tips and strategies for taking the exam. Tutoring services are also available to help students prepare for the PSAT.