The PSAT at a Glance



The PSAT at a Glance

What is the PSAT?

The PSAT is a preliminary version of the SAT, which serves as an invaluable practice opportunity—and can open the door to National Merit Scholarships and other awards. Find out more about why you should take the PSAT.

How is the PSAT structured and timed?

The PSAT is two hours and ten minutes long. It's divided into the following sections:

Section Length Question Types # of Questions
Math Two
25-minute sections
· Multiple Choice
· Grid-Ins
· 28
· 10
Critical Reading Two
25-minute sections
· Sentence
  Completion
· Reading
  Comprehension
· 13

· 35
Writing Skills One
30-minute section
· Identifying
  Sentence
  Errors
· Improving
  Sentences
· Improving
  Paragraphs
· 14


· 20

· 5

How can I register for the PSAT?

You can register with your guidance counselor or at any high school in your community.

What's the range of possible PSAT scores?

Each PSAT section has a scaled score from 20-80 points.

What are average PSAT scores?

Section Average Scores for Sophomores (2006)^ Average Scores for Juniors (2006)^
Math 43.5 48.5
Critical Reading 42.6 47.7
Writing Skills 40.8 45.8

^Information from the College Board's PSAT/NMSQT 2006 State Summary Reports.

When can I take the PSAT?

The PSAT/NMSQT is administered on the third Saturday of October and the preceding Wednesday.

Upcoming PSAT/NMSQT Administration Dates
2007 Wednesday, October 17th
Saturday, October 20th
2008 Wednesday, October 15th
Saturday, October 18th
2009 Wednesday, October 14th
Saturday, October 17th
2010 Wednesday, October 13th
Saturday, October 16th

 

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