Most high school students know that they
should expect to take either the Standard Aptitude Test (SAT) or the ACT prior
to graduation, since many colleges require one or the other for admission. Few,
however, realize that the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying
Test (PSAT/NMSQT) may be just as important. For the most part, the PSAT is
taken by high school juniors in October each year, though freshmen and
sophomores often participate as well. There are a total of five short sections
(two for reading, two for math, one for writing), taking in general a total of
2 hours and 10 minutes to complete. Although it is not a requirement for
college acceptance, there are some very compelling reasons why students should
consider taking the PSAT.
Reason
#1- Great practice for the SAT
The College Board provides each student with a customized study plan based on their PSAT performance, allowing each student to focus on those areas which need the most help. Studies have shown that students who take the exam more than once often score higher on subsequent tests, so students should consider taking the PSAT as early as freshman year. Those who have the opportunity to take the exam several times may also find they are more confident and relaxed when moving on to the SAT or ACT.
The College Board provides each student with a customized study plan based on their PSAT performance, allowing each student to focus on those areas which need the most help. Studies have shown that students who take the exam more than once often score higher on subsequent tests, so students should consider taking the PSAT as early as freshman year. Those who have the opportunity to take the exam several times may also find they are more confident and relaxed when moving on to the SAT or ACT.
Reason
#2- Helps connect to colleges
Students who take the PSAT can opt-in to the College Board’s free Student Search Service. This service allows colleges to identify students based on several factors including intended major, grade point average and state residency. Many colleges participate in the Student Search Service, giving students the opportunity to connect with colleges that they may be unfamiliar with or had not previously considered. Students typically receive brochures and other marketing materials, as well as information on campus tours and other upcoming events from the colleges.
Students who take the PSAT can opt-in to the College Board’s free Student Search Service. This service allows colleges to identify students based on several factors including intended major, grade point average and state residency. Many colleges participate in the Student Search Service, giving students the opportunity to connect with colleges that they may be unfamiliar with or had not previously considered. Students typically receive brochures and other marketing materials, as well as information on campus tours and other upcoming events from the colleges.
Reason
#3- Gain access to scholarships!
Perhaps the best thing about the PSAT is the opportunity to earn free money for college. Students who take the test during their junior year may be selected to participate in one of the scholarship or recognition programs directly linked to the exam.
Perhaps the best thing about the PSAT is the opportunity to earn free money for college. Students who take the test during their junior year may be selected to participate in one of the scholarship or recognition programs directly linked to the exam.
Although students are not required to take
the PSAT, the exam does help many prepare for the more rigorous SAT. It is a
good measurement of how well a student may score on the SAT and can help them target
areas for improvement prior to taking the exam. Students who wish to prepare
for the PSAT can find several free practice tests and reading assessments
online.
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