Lots of attention is given to the ACT and SAT because they are the standardized tests used by colleges to determine admissions; however, people often forget about the PSAT or misunderstand its value.
The first Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) was released in 1959 as a practice SAT geared towards sophomores and juniors. While previous iterations of the PSAT were essentially “mini-SATs” that were shorter and tested fewer skills, since the SAT switched to a digital, adaptive test form in 2023 the differences between the PSAT and SAT are very minimal.
This change benefits students because the PSAT now provides an extremely accurate representation of the structure, timing, and content that they will encounter on the SAT. Because students may not be familiar with the digital, modular adaptive testing model the PSAT and SAT use, it is a good idea to take the PSAT to be exposed to these features ahead of taking the SAT.
Similarly, taking the PSAT gives students an early glimpse into what it will be like to take a timed, proctored standardized test (whether that be the ACT or SAT). That official practice not only builds familiarity but also may reduce anxiety students have about taking the ACT or SAT.
Another reason to take the PSAT? PSAT scores reflect the actual SAT scores students can expect to receive. This means PSAT test-takers have a useful starting place from which they can plan out their ACT/SAT test prep.
PSAT score reports also highlight the content a student will need to focus on to improve their score. Did they do better on the Reading & Writing section or the Math section? Did they miss a lot of vocabulary questions? Did they struggle with timing and miss the final questions of each module? The PSAT score report is valuable (even if a student is planning to take the ACT) because it provides these insights into a student’s strengths and weaknesses.
Join the A+ Newsletter!
We promise, no spam—just a monthly dose of educational insight, strategies, and exclusive tips straight to your inbox.
All of this information is extremely helpful when starting ACT/SAT test preparation because it can guide decision-making. Thanks to their PSAT score reports and their subjective experience taking the test, PSAT test takers are better able to answer questions such as
- How many points do they need to grow in order to achieve their target SAT score (or the equivalent ACT score)?
- Is that goal realistic in the time that is available?
- How much material needs to be reviewed or learned?
- What kind of content is it?
- How challenging is it?
- How many hours are they willing to dedicate to test prep each week?
Taking the PSAT allows students to get a better grasp on their current skills and how much work (and time) they will need to invest to get the ACT/SAT score they desire. It’s great information for parents to have as well, but we’ve found that PSAT scores are particularly useful in lighting a fire under some students who may not have been taking the idea of ACT/SAT preparation that seriously beforehand.
Another reason to take the PSAT is for scholarship opportunities. The PSAT is not just a practice test; it’s the qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship Program, something that colleges do recognize as a plus when it comes time for admissions. Some colleges may also offer scholarship dollars for these honors!
If students do not want to take the PSAT because they are too busy with their academics, their ACT/SAT prep, and extracurriculars, that is understandable. However, while the PSAT may be optional at school, it can still be an important opportunity to enhance a student’s application profile.
The PSAT provide students with a chance to see where they stand at the beginning of junior year and what they need to work on before they take the ACT or SAT. The recognition by National Merit is certainly a goal worth the effort to achieve; however, if students have yet to start their ACT or SAT process, the PSAT can also be a very helpful first step.
If families want to learn more about the PSAT or have their students take a practice test to see where they stand or to just feel a little more comfortable before test day, reach out to Academic Approach’s team of expert directors for guidance at (773) 348-8914.