What is PSAT?

The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) is part of the SAT Suite of Assessments and comprises three versions designed for different grade levels:

  • PSAT / NMSQT
  • PSAT 10
  • PSAT 8 / 9

Each version measures similar skills — critical reading, writing & language, and mathematics — but is tailored to the grade-level readiness of students.

PSAT / NMSQT

  • The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT / National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is administered in the fall.
  • It is primarily taken by 10th and 11th graders, although some schools allow 9th graders to take it under certain conditions.
  • This version qualifies students for the National Merit Scholarship Program (only the PSAT/NMSQT is used for National Merit eligibility)
  • The content is the same as the PSAT 10 (same structure, difficulty, and scoring) but is offered at a different time of year.

PSAT 10

  • The PSAT 10 is typically taken in the spring of grade 10 (or by some grade 11 students) at schools.
  • It measures the same skills and knowledge as the PSAT/NMSQT: reading, writing & language, and Math.
  • However, PSAT 10 does not qualify students for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Only PSAT/NMSQT scores are used for that purpose.

PSAT 8 / 9

  • The PSAT 8 / 9 is designed for 8th- or 9th-grade students, providing them with early feedback on their readiness for college-level work.
  • It assesses the same broad domains (Reading & Writing, and Math) but at a level appropriate for younger students.
  • Schools, rather than individual students, schedule and administer the PSAT 8/9. Students generally do not register directly with the College Board.

PSAT Structure

Component Section Question Number of Questions
Reading & Writing 64 minutes 54 questions, divided into two modules
Math 70 minutes 44 questions, divided into two modules
Total 134 minutes 98 questions
  • Total Exam Time: 2 hours and 14 minutes.
  • Each section has 2 modules; performance on Module 1 determines the difficulty mix of Module 2 (multistage adaptive).
  • The test is administered through the Bluebook™ app, developed by the College Board.
  • Total Score in PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10 ranges from 320 to 1520, combining Reading & Writing and Math scores.
    • Reading & Writing: 160 – 760
    • Math: 160 – 760
  • The PSAT / NMSQT is the only version that qualifies for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
  • PSAT 10 to measure readiness for college, access scholarships, and practice for the SAT.
  • Total Score in PSAT8 / 9 ranges from 240 to 1440, combining Reading & Writing and Math scores.
    • Reading & Writing: 120 – 720
    • Math: 120-720
  • The PSAT 8 / 9 is not used for National Merit eligibility — it’s primarily a diagnostic and preparatory tool.

Content Covered in PSAT Reading & Writing (ER&W) Section

The Reading & Writing section of the digital PSAT / NMSQT consists of 54 multiple-choice questions split evenly into 2 modules, with 32 minutes per module. The questions in the PSAT Reading and Writing section fall into 4 major content categories:

Categories Skills Assessed
Craft and Structure
  • Understand and use high-utility words and phrases in context.
  • Evaluate the structure and purpose of texts.
  • Make connections between topically related texts.
Information and Ideas
  • Evaluate central ideas and details.
  • Show command of evidence from text, tables, bar graphs, and line graphs.
  • Make inferences
Standard English Conventions Questions in this topic assess a student’s ability to revise and edit text according to the core rules of Standard English grammar, sentence structure, usage, and punctuation.
Expression of Ideas Questions in this domain assess the ability to refine and revise text to enhance clarity, coherence, and effectiveness in achieving specific rhetorical or communicative goals.

Content Covered in the PSAT Math Section

The PSAT Math section is designed to assess students' readiness for college-level mathematics. It comprises 44 questions divided into two modules, each lasting 35 minutes. The questions are arranged from easiest to hardest within each module, allowing students to demonstrate their mathematical abilities effectively.

Categories Skills Assessed
Algebra
  • Linear equations in 1 variable
  • Linear equations in 2 variables
  • Linear functions
  • Systems of 2 linear equations in 2 variables
  • Linear inequalities in 1 or 2 variables
Advanced Math
  • Equivalent expressions
  • Nonlinear equations in 1 variable and systems of equations in 2 variables
  • Nonlinear functions
Problem-Solving and Data Analysis
  • Ratios, rates, proportional relationships, and units
  • Percentages, 1-variable data
  • Distributions and measures of center and spread
  • 2-variable data: models and scatterplots
  • Probability and conditional probability
  • Inference from sample statistics and margin of error
  • Evaluating statistical claims: observational studies and experiments
Geometry and Trigonometry
  • Area and volume
  • Lines, angles, and triangles
  • Right triangles and trigonometry
  • Circles

Why take the PSAT Exam?

While PSAT scores aren’t directly used in college admissions, they play a significant role in shaping a student’s college readiness journey. The PSAT, especially the PSAT / NMSQT, serves as both a practice platform for the SAT and a qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program - one of the most prestigious academic recognitions in the U.S.

A strong PSAT score helps students:

  • Benchmark performance against college readiness standards and identify academic strengths and weaknesses early.
  • Set realistic SAT score goals, since the PSAT and SAT share the same structure and scoring scale.
  • Qualify for scholarships like the National Merit Scholarship, which can enhance college applications and open financial aid opportunities.
  • Gain exposure to the college application process through the College Board’s partnership with universities, which allows colleges to connect with high-performing PSAT test-takers.

In essence, PSAT performance provides valuable insights into a student’s academic preparedness while unlocking pathways to scholarships and recognition that can strengthen future college applications.

Dream Scores turned Reality

Frequently asked Questions

What is the PSAT and why should students take it?

The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) is part of the SAT Suite of Assessments and serves as both a practice version of the SAT and a qualifier for the National Merit Scholarship Program (for PSAT/NMSQT takers). It helps students assess their readiness for college-level work, identify academic strengths, and set clear SAT score goals early on.

What are the different types of PSAT exams?

The PSAT has three versions based on grade level:

  • PSAT / NMSQT – For Grade 10 and 11 students; used for National Merit qualification.
  • PSAT 10 – Same structure as PSAT/NMSQT but taken in spring; not linked to scholarships.
  • PSAT 8/9 – For Grades 8 and 9; helps students and parents gauge early academic readiness.

All versions share the same format and question types, focusing on Reading & Writing and Math.

Does the PSAT score affect college admissions?

No, PSAT scores are not sent to colleges and don’t directly impact college admissions. However, they provide valuable insight into a student’s SAT preparedness. For Grade 11 students, high PSAT/NMSQT scores can qualify them for the National Merit Scholarship, which strengthens college applications and opens scholarship opportunities.

What’s the difference between the PSAT and SAT?

The PSAT mirrors the SAT in structure, content, and question style but is slightly shorter and does not include the advanced-level math found on the SAT. The PSAT serves as an ideal practice platform to identify improvement areas before taking the SAT.

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