The PSAT, or Preliminary SAT, is a standardized test administered by the College Board that plays a critical role in the academic journey of high school students, especially those in grades 10 and 11. While often seen as a precursor to the SAT, the PSAT serves a variety of purposes beyond just test preparation. It provides valuable insights into a student’s readiness for the SAT, helping them identify areas where they may need to improve before taking the more challenging test. The PSAT also acts as a qualifier for the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program, which awards scholarships to high-performing students based on their PSAT scores.
Unlike the SAT, which is directly tied to college admissions, the PSAT is not required for entry into most colleges. However, it offers a unique opportunity for students to practice for the SAT in a real testing environment. While colleges do not consider PSAT scores during the application process, a high score can open the door to various scholarship opportunities, especially for students who excel in the exam. This aspect makes the PSAT particularly relevant for students aiming for higher education, as it offers both practice and a potential pathway to financial support through merit-based awards.
The PSAT is not just for students who are preparing for the SAT in the following years. Even younger students in grades 8 through 10 can participate in different versions of the PSAT, like the PSAT 8/9 and PSAT 10. These tests help younger students understand the test format and prepare for more advanced standardized testing in their future academic careers. By taking these early versions, students get familiar with the type of questions that appear on the SAT and PSAT, making the transition to higher-level testing much smoother.
For many students, taking the PSAT is a crucial first step toward their college preparation. It introduces them to the academic rigors of standardized testing and allows them to gauge their strengths and weaknesses before committing to the SAT. While it may not be a requirement for college admissions, the PSAT is often viewed as a valuable step in the academic process, helping students plan and strategize for their futures.
The Role of the PSAT in Preparing for the SAT
The PSAT serves as an excellent preparation tool for the SAT. As both tests are designed by the College Board and share a similar format, the PSAT provides students with a taste of what to expect when they eventually sit for the SAT. Although the PSAT is shorter and less comprehensive than the SAT, it covers many of the same topics, including reading comprehension, grammar and writing skills, and mathematics. By taking the PSAT, students can familiarize themselves with the structure of these sections and gain valuable experience in answering questions under timed conditions.
One of the main benefits of the PSAT is that it provides students with the chance to assess their skills and pinpoint areas for improvement. For example, a student who struggles with the math section on the PSAT may use their score to focus more attention on math during their SAT preparation. In this way, the PSAT acts as a diagnostic tool that helps students prioritize their study efforts and tailor their preparation for the SAT more effectively.
Furthermore, the PSAT offers an excellent opportunity for students to practice their test-taking strategies. Because both the PSAT and SAT are timed exams, students need to manage their time effectively to answer all the questions within the given period. The PSAT’s shorter format allows students to experiment with different time-management techniques, helping them determine what works best for them as they prepare for the SAT. Time management is a critical aspect of the SAT, and the PSAT offers a low-stakes opportunity to develop and refine these skills.
In addition to the content and test-taking strategies, the PSAT introduces students to the concept of test anxiety. Many students experience stress or nervousness before standardized tests, and the PSAT provides a less high-pressure environment in which students can practice managing these feelings. By taking the PSAT, students can become more comfortable with the testing process, which can help reduce anxiety when it’s time to take the SAT.
The PSAT and National Merit Scholarship Opportunities
In addition to being a test for SAT preparation, the PSAT serves as a qualifier for the National Merit Scholarship Program. The National Merit Scholarship is a highly regarded award that recognizes students for their academic excellence and offers financial support for their college education. While not every student who takes the PSAT will qualify for the scholarship, it offers a prestigious opportunity for those who perform exceptionally well on the test.
To become a National Merit Scholar, students must achieve a certain score on the PSAT, which is determined by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). The scores required for eligibility can vary each year and are based on a number of factors, including the performance of other students in the same state. As a result, the National Merit cutoff score can be different for each state, with some states requiring higher scores than others.
In addition to the National Merit Scholarship itself, students who perform well on the PSAT may be eligible for other types of scholarships, such as corporate-sponsored awards. These awards are often provided by companies, foundations, and other organizations that partner with the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. For instance, students who are identified as National Merit Semifinalists may be offered scholarships by companies that want to support high-achieving students.
While the National Merit Scholarship is one of the most well-known and competitive scholarships, students who perform well on the PSAT may also be considered for other types of merit-based financial aid. Many colleges and universities offer their own merit scholarships, which are often awarded based on standardized test scores, academic performance, or a combination of both. For students who excel on the PSAT, these scholarships can provide significant financial support for their higher education.
Moreover, students who earn a high PSAT score and are named National Merit Finalists or Semifinalists often gain a competitive edge in the college admissions process. Many universities recognize the prestige associated with National Merit recognition, and being named a finalist can make a student’s application stand out among the many applicants vying for a spot in the incoming freshman class. This recognition can play a key role in securing a spot at a top university or securing a substantial scholarship to help cover the cost of tuition.
Timing and Strategy for Taking the PSAT
The PSAT is typically offered once a year in the fall, usually in October, and is administered during school hours. The exact dates for testing can vary depending on the school district and the individual high school, so it’s important for students to check with their school to determine when the test will be offered. For most students, the PSAT is taken in their sophomore or junior year, but students in earlier grades can take different versions of the test, such as the PSAT 8/9 or PSAT 10.
The PSAT/NMSQT, which is the most commonly taken version, is usually designed for students in 10th or 11th grade. This version of the test is timed and consists of sections that assess a student’s knowledge and skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. The test is slightly shorter than the SAT, typically lasting about two hours and 45 minutes. However, despite its shorter length, the PSAT provides a valuable opportunity for students to practice for the SAT and identify areas of weakness that need improvement.
Although the PSAT is not required for college admissions, it is strongly encouraged for students who are planning to take the SAT. By taking the PSAT, students not only gain valuable practice but also position themselves to take advantage of scholarship opportunities, such as the National Merit Scholarship. As a result, students who are serious about their academic future should make an effort to take the PSAT and prepare for it thoroughly.
Students can benefit from a well-planned strategy when it comes to preparing for the PSAT. First, they should familiarize themselves with the test format and content areas. There are many resources available online, including practice tests and study guides, that can help students understand the types of questions they will encounter. In addition, students should take advantage of study tools such as time-management techniques, problem-solving strategies, and test-taking tips that can help them perform at their best on the day of the test.
While taking the PSAT is not mandatory for college admissions, it is highly recommended for students who want to take their academic preparation seriously. Not only does the PSAT offer an opportunity to practice for the SAT, but it also opens the door to scholarship opportunities that can make a significant difference in the cost of attending college. With careful preparation and a well-thought-out strategy, students can make the most of the PSAT and use it as a stepping stone toward achieving their academic goals.
Understanding the Structure of the PSAT
The PSAT, a precursor to the SAT, is designed to assess a wide array of academic skills, providing both practice and diagnostic insight into a student’s abilities. The test is structured to be completed in two hours and 45 minutes, with each of its sections carefully calibrated to challenge students in a variety of ways. There are four primary sections on the PSAT: Reading, Writing and Language, Math (No Calculator), and Math (Calculator). Each section is unique in its focus but together they combine to give a comprehensive overview of a student’s knowledge and skills, much like the SAT.
The Reading section of the PSAT is designed to assess a student’s ability to analyze written passages. This is not simply about reading comprehension, but about drawing inferences, analyzing the arguments presented in the text, and understanding how language is used to convey meaning. The passages in this section are drawn from a broad spectrum of disciplines, including literature, history, social science, and science. Students are required to read these passages carefully and answer questions that assess their ability to understand context, tone, and the central message of the material.
While the Reading section focuses on understanding passages, it also evaluates how well students can identify and use evidence to support their responses. For example, a question might ask students to cite specific textual evidence that supports a particular claim or interpretation of the passage. This tests not only their ability to comprehend but also their ability to think critically and to provide reasoning based on textual evidence. Additionally, understanding the meaning of words in context is an essential skill. Students are often tasked with determining the meaning of a word or phrase as it’s used in the passage, a skill that goes beyond simple vocabulary knowledge to include an understanding of how words can take on different meanings depending on the context in which they are used.
The Writing and Language Section
The Writing and Language section of the PSAT is aimed at assessing a student’s ability to improve written text. This section doesn’t merely evaluate grammar rules but also measures a student’s understanding of sentence structure, punctuation, and overall clarity of writing. This makes it not only a test of knowledge but also of editing and revision skills—abilities that are crucial in both academic and professional contexts.
Students are presented with passages that contain various errors, and their task is to identify and correct these errors to improve the clarity and effectiveness of the writing. The mistakes in these passages may relate to grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and even the overall flow of ideas. Some questions focus on improving the organization of sentences or paragraphs, testing a student’s ability to refine writing to ensure it communicates ideas clearly and effectively. Students are also tested on their understanding of style and tone, especially in narrative and argumentative passages. In these cases, students must not only identify incorrect grammar but also assess how well the argument is structured and where improvements can be made to enhance its persuasiveness.
This section is not just about identifying errors; it’s also about understanding how the nuances of writing contribute to the overall meaning of the passage. Whether the task is adjusting a sentence to improve its rhythm or finding the best word choice to strengthen an argument, the Writing and Language section requires students to think critically about language and its use in conveying ideas. Students are also asked to engage with texts that come from various sources, from fictional narratives to expository writing, ensuring that they can apply their knowledge to a wide range of writing styles.
Math (No Calculator) and Math (Calculator) Sections
The Math sections on the PSAT are designed to evaluate a student’s proficiency in applying mathematical concepts, from basic arithmetic and algebra to more complex problem-solving and data analysis. The test is divided into two math sections: one where students are not allowed to use a calculator and another where they can use a calculator. These sections are structured to test students’ understanding of math concepts as well as their ability to solve problems efficiently under time constraints.
The Math (No Calculator) section consists of 17 questions and focuses on foundational algebraic concepts. Students are tested on their ability to manipulate algebraic expressions, solve equations, and interpret mathematical relationships. This section emphasizes skills like working with linear equations, proportions, and percentages, as well as understanding how numbers interact in different mathematical contexts. Because this section prohibits the use of a calculator, students are expected to rely on their mental math skills and their understanding of mathematical principles. The goal is to test how well students can work with numbers without the assistance of technology, requiring them to be quick and efficient in their reasoning and calculation.
On the other hand, the Math (Calculator) section includes 31 questions and provides students with the ability to use a calculator, but this does not mean that the problems are necessarily easier. In fact, many of the questions in this section require higher-level mathematical reasoning, including problem-solving, data analysis, and the application of advanced math concepts. Students are expected to be able to solve more complex problems, such as those involving quadratic equations, data interpretation, and functions, with the aid of a calculator. While the presence of a calculator offers more flexibility, the real challenge lies in using it strategically and not relying too heavily on it. This section tests a student’s ability to navigate complex problems while maintaining accuracy and precision, skills that are essential not only for the SAT but for college-level math courses as well.
The Math (Calculator) section also incorporates questions on interpreting graphs and charts, and solving word problems, testing students’ ability to extract relevant mathematical information from real-world situations. This section assesses both the student’s quantitative reasoning and their ability to use technology effectively to solve problems. However, even with the aid of a calculator, students must still possess strong mathematical reasoning and be able to recognize patterns and relationships between different mathematical elements.
Developing Test-Taking Strategies for PSAT Success
As the PSAT is a timed test, one of the most important strategies for success is managing time effectively. The test is structured to challenge students not only on their knowledge and skills but also on their ability to apply those skills under pressure. Time management is critical, and students must balance speed with accuracy to ensure they complete the test within the allotted time.
For each section, students should practice pacing themselves and become familiar with the types of questions that tend to appear most frequently. In the Reading and Writing sections, for example, students may want to practice reading passages quickly but thoroughly, ensuring they grasp the central ideas without getting bogged down in excessive detail. In the Math sections, students should work on solving problems as quickly as possible without sacrificing accuracy. Practicing with timed mock exams is an excellent way to improve both speed and efficiency, allowing students to simulate the actual testing environment and get used to the pressure of the clock.
Additionally, students should focus on understanding the structure of the test and become familiar with common question types. For instance, students should expect questions in the Math sections that require multiple steps to solve, while in the Reading and Writing sections, they will need to read closely and analyze the text critically. Being aware of the type of questions and the skills being tested will allow students to prepare more effectively and feel confident in their ability to navigate the test.
Lastly, practicing with previous test versions and taking multiple practice exams will help students build familiarity with the PSAT’s format and structure. As students work through practice exams, they should focus on learning from their mistakes and refining their problem-solving strategies. The more exposure students have to the PSAT’s types of questions, the more comfortable and confident they will feel when they take the real test.
Scoring Breakdown of the PSAT
The PSAT is not just a practice test for the SAT; it also serves as a crucial diagnostic tool that helps students understand their academic strengths and weaknesses. Once the test is completed, students receive a detailed score report that provides them with valuable insights into their performance. This report is more than just a score; it’s a roadmap for the areas in which students can improve, as well as a reflection of their readiness for the SAT. Understanding how the PSAT is scored and what the scores represent is essential for making the most out of the experience.
The PSAT score is presented on a scale that ranges from 320 to 1520, which combines the scores from two primary sections: Reading and Writing (which is also referred to as Evidence-Based Reading and Writing) and Math. Each of these sections is scored separately, with scores ranging between 160 and 760. The total score is derived from adding the individual section scores together, providing a composite score that gives a holistic view of the student’s overall performance on the test.
One important feature of the PSAT scoring system is that it does not penalize students for incorrect answers. This is a critical distinction from many other standardized tests that impose penalties for guessing incorrectly. Instead, students are rewarded only for correct answers, and incorrect responses have no bearing on their score. This scoring method encourages students to attempt every question without fear of negative consequences for guessing. In essence, the PSAT rewards accuracy without penalizing risk-taking.
The raw scores, which are calculated based on the number of correct answers, are then converted into scaled scores using a process called equating. Equating is an essential part of the College Board’s scoring system as it ensures that variations in test difficulty across different test dates do not influence the final score. By using this statistical method, the College Board ensures that all test-takers are judged fairly, regardless of when they took the test. Once the raw scores are adjusted, students receive their final scaled scores that provide a more accurate representation of their abilities.
Understanding Your Subscores
While the overall score is important, the PSAT score report goes deeper to offer a detailed breakdown of a student’s performance through subscores. These subscores provide insight into specific areas where students may need improvement, helping them focus their efforts more effectively in the lead-up to the SAT. Each section of the PSAT has its own set of subscores, which help students understand their strengths in more granular terms.
For instance, within the Reading and Writing section, students will see a subscore for “Command of Evidence.” This subscore reflects a student’s ability to identify and use evidence to support their answers, a skill that is essential not only for the PSAT but also for the SAT. A strong score in this area indicates that a student has a strong grasp of how to interpret passages and use evidence effectively, while a lower score may suggest the need for more practice in analyzing texts and identifying key details.
Another important subscore in the Reading and Writing section is “Words in Context.” This subscore measures how well students can determine the meaning of words and phrases within the context of a passage. The ability to understand words in context is crucial for reading comprehension and is a skill that is heavily tested on both the PSAT and SAT. Students who perform well in this area demonstrate a strong vocabulary and a keen understanding of how language works within different contexts, while those with a lower score in this area may benefit from focused vocabulary-building exercises and strategies for understanding unfamiliar words.
In the Math section, subscores such as “Heart of Algebra” and “Problem Solving and Data Analysis” are provided. “Heart of Algebra” focuses on a student’s ability to solve algebraic equations, work with linear equations, and manipulate algebraic expressions. A high score in this area indicates that the student has a solid understanding of algebra, which is foundational for success in both the PSAT and SAT math sections. The “Problem Solving and Data Analysis” subscore, on the other hand, assesses a student’s ability to analyze data, interpret graphs and tables, and solve problems involving ratios, percentages, and proportional relationships. These two subscores are vital for identifying where students need to concentrate their efforts in preparation for the SAT’s more advanced math questions.
Understanding these subscores is essential because they provide a much more detailed picture of a student’s performance than the overall section score alone. These subscores help pinpoint exactly where a student excels and where further practice is needed. By analyzing these areas of improvement, students can approach their SAT preparation with a more targeted strategy, focusing on the sections where they need the most development.
The Role of Percentiles in Your PSAT Score
In addition to raw scores and subscores, students also receive a percentile ranking with their PSAT score report. The percentile ranking is a valuable tool that helps students understand how their performance compares to other test-takers. It provides a relative measure of how well a student did on the PSAT, taking into account the performance of all the students who took the test across the country. This allows students to see how they stack up against their peers, which can help them gauge where they stand in relation to other students preparing for the SAT.
For example, if a student receives a score in the 90th percentile, it means they scored higher than 90% of all the other students who took the test. Conversely, a score in the 50th percentile means the student performed better than half of the test-takers but still has room for improvement. Percentiles are a helpful way to put a student’s score into context, offering a clear picture of how their performance compares to others who are also preparing for the SAT.
It’s important to note that while percentile rankings are useful for understanding relative performance, they should not be the sole focus when analyzing PSAT scores. The main purpose of the PSAT is to help students identify areas for improvement in preparation for the SAT, and percentiles should be viewed as one part of that process. The percentiles provide valuable information about how a student compares to others, but the subscores and overall score breakdown offer more specific guidance on where to focus attention during SAT preparation.
Percentiles also play a significant role in helping students understand the potential for scholarship opportunities, especially for those students aiming for the National Merit Scholarship. For instance, students who score in the top percentiles may become eligible for National Merit recognition, which can open doors to various scholarship programs. A high percentile ranking is often associated with better prospects for college admissions and scholarships, making it an important aspect of the PSAT score report.
Using Your PSAT Results to Prepare for the SAT
While the PSAT is a practice test for the SAT, it also provides invaluable feedback that can help students prepare for the real test. Once the PSAT scores are received, students should carefully analyze the score report, focusing on the raw scores, subscores, and percentile rankings to identify areas where they need improvement. This is the first step toward developing an effective study plan for the SAT.
Students should start by reviewing their performance in the individual sections of the PSAT. For instance, if a student scores well in Reading but struggles in Math, they should focus more on improving their math skills before taking the SAT. Likewise, if a student has difficulty with the Writing and Language section, they should work on grammar, sentence structure, and writing clarity.
After identifying the areas for improvement, students should create a study plan that targets their weaknesses while continuing to reinforce their strengths. This targeted approach is more effective than a general review of all test sections and will lead to better results on the SAT. The PSAT score report is an excellent tool for students to use as they prepare for the SAT, helping them focus their efforts where they will make the most impact.
In addition to academic preparation, the PSAT results can help students set realistic goals for their SAT scores. By understanding where they currently stand, students can set achievable score targets for the SAT and track their progress toward those goals. The score report serves as a benchmark, giving students a clear sense of where they are in their preparation and what they need to work on to improve.
The PSAT and Its Role in the National Merit Scholarship Program
One of the key reasons why many students take the PSAT is to qualify for the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program. This program, administered by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), is one of the most well-known and competitive scholarship programs in the United States. The National Merit Scholarship is not just an academic recognition but a financial aid opportunity that can significantly reduce the cost of higher education. To become a contender for this award, students must perform exceptionally well on the PSAT/NMSQT, taken during their junior year.
The PSAT/NMSQT serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program, which is why it is vital for students to understand how their PSAT scores influence their eligibility. Each year, high school juniors across the country take the PSAT, but only the top scorers are selected for further recognition. This selection is based on a specific score range, and students must meet the criteria to advance to the next stages of the National Merit process. Achieving a qualifying score on the PSAT is just the first step toward securing a National Merit Scholarship.
The Selection Index and How It Determines Eligibility
The Selection Index is the key metric used by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation to determine whether a student is eligible for consideration. It combines the scores from three distinct sections of the PSAT: Reading, Writing, and Math. These sections are designed to test different academic skills, including reading comprehension, grammatical knowledge, and mathematical reasoning. By combining the scores from these three sections, the Selection Index provides a single number that reflects a student’s overall performance on the test. This score is crucial for determining whether a student can qualify for the National Merit Scholarship.
While the exact cutoff score for each year and state can fluctuate, there is a general benchmark score that students should aim for to be considered for National Merit recognition. Typically, a Selection Index score of around 207 is considered a strong indicator of eligibility, though this number can vary depending on the state and the competitiveness of the pool of test-takers. Students who meet or exceed this threshold are recognized as National Merit Semifinalists, which is a significant academic achievement and the first step in the scholarship process. These students are then invited to apply to become National Merit Finalists, which requires meeting additional academic and procedural requirements.
Being named a National Merit Semifinalist is not the end of the process; it is only the beginning. Students who qualify as Semifinalists must maintain a high academic performance, complete an application process, and secure a recommendation from a high school official. The application process requires students to provide detailed information about their academic record, extracurricular activities, and personal accomplishments. Additionally, they must submit an essay or personal statement that highlights their goals, aspirations, and the academic work they have undertaken to reach this point. If students meet all the necessary requirements, they are then selected as National Merit Finalists, who are eligible to receive scholarships.
National Merit Scholarship Awards and Their Impact
Once students are named National Merit Finalists, they become eligible to receive the National Merit Scholarship, a prestigious award that is offered annually to approximately 7,500 students. The scholarship amount can vary, but it typically covers a substantial portion of a student’s college expenses, including tuition, fees, and sometimes room and board. The scholarship offers students a significant financial benefit, helping reduce the burden of the cost of higher education. For many students and their families, the National Merit Scholarship is a game-changer, making it easier for them to afford college and pursue their academic goals without the stress of overwhelming debt.
In addition to the financial support, the recognition of being a National Merit Scholar holds great prestige. Being named a National Merit Scholar is a mark of academic excellence that stands out on college applications. Many top-tier universities take special note of National Merit Scholars, and this recognition can help a student’s application rise to the top of the pile. In some cases, universities offer additional merit-based scholarships or preferential treatment to National Merit Scholars, giving them an even greater advantage in the admissions process.
For students seeking to attend elite institutions, being recognized as a National Merit Scholar can open doors that might otherwise be closed. The financial support, combined with the prestige of the recognition, gives these students a competitive edge in the highly selective world of college admissions. Even if the student does not receive a National Merit Scholarship, the recognition itself can lead to other opportunities, including invitations to special events, consideration for other scholarships, and enhanced prospects for internships and job placements in the future.
Other Forms of Recognition and Opportunities
Even for students who do not qualify as National Merit Semifinalists or Finalists, there are still valuable forms of recognition that can help improve their academic standing and college prospects. One such recognition is being named a Commended Student. Students who perform well on the PSAT but do not meet the cutoff score for National Merit Semifinalists may still receive the distinction of being a Commended Student. While Commended Students do not receive scholarships, the recognition itself is still a significant academic achievement and can enhance a student’s college application.
Being named a Commended Student reflects a high level of academic ability, and it signals to colleges that the student has demonstrated exceptional performance on a national level. This distinction can help students stand out during the college admissions process, particularly when applying to competitive schools. Furthermore, some colleges may offer additional scholarship opportunities or special admissions considerations for students who have been recognized as Commended Students. Though it may not offer the same financial benefits as the National Merit Scholarship, the Commended Student recognition is still a notable accomplishment that reflects strong academic potential.
For students who do not qualify for the National Merit Scholarship, there are still numerous other ways to earn scholarships and academic recognition. Many colleges and universities offer merit-based scholarships that are awarded based on standardized test scores, GPA, extracurricular activities, and other factors. A strong PSAT score, whether it qualifies a student for National Merit recognition or not, can serve as a springboard for applying for these types of scholarships. By leveraging the PSAT score report, students can identify additional scholarship opportunities that may be available to them based on their academic performance.
In addition to scholarships, students who perform well on the PSAT may also be eligible for special programs or honors opportunities at their high school or in their community. Some high schools offer advanced coursework, honors programs, or research opportunities for students who demonstrate exceptional academic talent, and a high PSAT score can be a ticket to participating in these enriching programs. These programs not only provide students with valuable academic experience but also help them develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in college and beyond.
Conclusion
The PSAT serves multiple purposes for students preparing for the SAT and the college admissions process. It provides an excellent opportunity for students to practice for the SAT, helping them familiarize themselves with the test format and the types of questions they will encounter. However, beyond test preparation, the PSAT plays a critical role in determining eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship, which offers financial support and academic recognition to high-achieving students. The PSAT also offers a valuable diagnostic tool, allowing students to identify their academic strengths and weaknesses, and focus their efforts on areas that need improvement.
By understanding the PSAT’s role in the National Merit Scholarship Program and other academic opportunities, students can approach the test with a clear sense of purpose and motivation. With careful preparation and a strategic focus on their areas of improvement, students can use the PSAT as a stepping stone toward academic success, scholarship opportunities, and a successful future in higher education. Whether you’re hoping to become a National Merit Scholar or simply seeking to improve your SAT score, the PSAT offers a wealth of information that can guide your academic journey.