What is the PSAT?
It is a standardized test that sophomores, juniors and some freshman take in their high school.
Why is it offered?
The PSAT is a preliminary standardized achievement test. It is a great indication on how your student will do on the actual SAT. This is an opportunity to gear up your student for the college process especially when it comes to standardize testing.
When is the PSAT offered?
Most students will take the PSAT in October. This year it will be offered on October 17th.
When will the scores be released?
The scores will not be released until mid-December. However, most high schools wait until after the holiday break to distribute the scores.
What is a good PSAT score?
Students will receive three scores on their report. The sections will include Critical Reading, Math and Writing. Each section ranges from 20 to 80. This range is very similar to the SAT. In addition to the three sections score, you will find your student’s Selection Index, which is the sum of all three sections. This index is a piece of what qualifies students for the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT). Georgia’s minimum required PSAT score for NMSQT for the class of 2012 was 218.
The average score for juniors last year was around the 46 percentile.
How To Qualify for the NMSQT?
1. A U.S. Citizen
2. Enrolled Full time in high school
3. Taking the PSAT junior year
4. Have a strong academic record
5. Going to complete the NMSC Scholarship application.
6. Scored high on the PSAT
How to Prepare for the PSAT?
According to Teresa Shell, owner of Bespoke Tutoring, completing practice problems from the College Board’s book, The Official SAT Study Guide, can give students a great idea of what to expect on test day. Become familiar with the types of problems you will encounter on the PSAT and read the directions for each section prior to test day. Reviewing for the test will save you time on the actual exam. Remember, wrong answers only cost a quarter of a point so it’s best to guess if you can confidently eliminate even just one answer choice. Now RELAX, and get a good night’s sleep the night before.
For more information, click here http://www.nationalmerit.org