Every year, the College Board offers the Preliminary SAT, or PSAT, during one week in October. During that week it is giving twice: once on that Wednesday, and once on that Saturday. Because it is a standardized test, test takers do not have an option to take it at any other time. Additionally, not every high school offers the test, but students can still take the test at another school. Taking the test is important to preparing for college.

PSAT as Preparation for the SAT

The PSAT is a precursor for the SAT. The tests have three sections: critical reading, math, and writing. Student have under four hours to complete all of the sections. Questions answered incorrectly affect the overall scores.

The formats of the two tests are virtually identical, which allows students to become familiar with the structure and pace of the SAT. In December school counselors receive student score reports. These reports provide a detailed analysis of the students' performance. Students gain an understanding of the types of questions they consistently answered incorrectly. The report will also provide the students with a recommended study plan.

PSAT and the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT)

Every year local and national newspapers publish a list of student names who have received a National Merit status. In order to qualify for the competition, students need to take the PSAT during their junior year in high school. Students can practice taking the PSAT during their freshman and sophomore year, but qualifying for National Merit status can only take place in the junior year.

Each test report is provided an index score, which is configured by PSAT and NMSQT. The composition of the score is usually kept confidential. If a student's report indicates an asterisk next to the index score, then the student qualifies for the competition. The student must then take extra steps to compete.

Being a NMSQT qualifier or finalist is an honor. It indicates that the student is one of the brightest students in the nation. Some colleges even provide merit scholarships for NMSQT finalists. Additionally, colleges will use this information as a recruitment tool to find the brightest student candidates..

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