What dates can you take the PSAT?

The PSAT/NMSQT testing window is October 2–31, 2023. Ask your counselor or principal when you will test. While different students from your school may test on different days, each student is only allowed to take the test once during the testing window, unless an irregularity occurs that warrants a retest.

Can you take the PSAT anytime?

Most students take the test in 11th grade, but you could take it in ninth and/or 10th grade for extra practice. Note that only juniors who take the PSAT will be considered for a National Merit Scholarship — sophomores do not qualify.

When can I take the PSAT in 2024?

March 4–April 26, 2024. October 1–October 31, 2024. March 3–April 30, 2025.

Can you only take the PSAT in October?

The PSAT is offered in October each year. Because high schools rather than individual test centers administer the PSAT, each school decides when to give the test to its students. The testing window for the 2023 PSAT is between October 2 - October 31.

Is the PSAT only given once a year?

You can take the PSAT only once a year. The test is given in October every year. Students usually take the PSAT in both the 10th and 11th grades.

Everything You Need to Know about the PSAT!

Can you take PSAT in 9th grade?

Yes. Any student can arrange to take the PSAT 10 at a school that offers it. However, we recommend that eighth and ninth graders take the PSAT 8/9.

What if I missed the PSAT?

You must write, email or fax the office the “alternate test” request and give the reason for missing the national exam date. There is a small approval process, but our contact said that the administration isn't too picky about reasons for missing the national testing date.

Is it OK to skip the PSAT?

Do I (does my sophomore) need to take the PSAT? No. The PSAT (whether you're a sophomore or a junior, in fact) is not required, and deciding not to take it will not have any negative effects on your college admissions decisions.

Can I skip my PSAT?

If your child missed the PSAT due to illness, emergency, or other extenuating circumstances, but would still like to be eligible for the National Merit Scholarship Program, contact the National Merit Scholarship Corporation via mail to inquire about alternate testing.

Is it OK to not take PSAT?

The PSAT is not used directly by colleges and universities when they make their college admissions decisions. Your acceptance or rejection into college is much more dependent on the SAT or ACT , so the short answer is “no,” colleges don't care at all about the PSAT.

How much does a PSAT cost?

SAT School Day test registration: $60 each. PSAT 10 test registration: $18 each. PSAT 8/9 test registration: $14 each.

When can my child take the PSAT?

Most students take the PSAT at their high school in the fall of their sophomore or junior year. Ask a teacher or school counselor when the test will be offered at your school and how to sign up.

Why take the PSAT in 8th grade?

In addition, the PSAT 8/9 will identify areas where your child excels (and may want to consider taking higher-level courses), as well as areas he or she should focus to improve academically.

Does the PSAT matter in 11th grade?

All 11th graders who take the PSAT/NMSQT are eligible for National Merit Scholarships. Of the top 50,000 performers, 34,000 become Commended Scholars, while the remaining 16,000 are distinguished as National Merit Semifinalists.

Should I take PSAT in 10th grade?

Most test-takers should plan on taking the PSAT/NMSQT their sophomore year. While you can't qualify for the National Merit Scholarship in 10th grade, you can gain valuable experience to prepare for your junior year when you can qualify for the scholarship.

Do colleges look at PSAT?

College Board does not send PSAT/NMSQT scores to colleges. These scores are not intended to be part of college admission decisions. They should not be included on student transcripts that will be reproduced and sent to colleges unless the student (if 18 or older) or their parent/guardian has granted permission.

How do I ace the PSAT?

Is the SAT harder than the PSAT?

The PSAT is a practice SAT, usually taken by juniors, whereas the SAT is a college entrance exam. The SAT is slightly more challenging than the PSAT. While the PSAT is scored between 320 and 1520, the SAT is scored between 400 and 1600. It may cost up to $18 to take the PSAT, whereas the fee for taking the SAT is $55.

Does the PSAT really matter?

For the vast majority of students, the PSAT is simply a dress rehearsal for the SAT. While it's true there are a tiny percentage (around 3%) of 11^th graders who will take the PSAT and qualify for the National Merit Scholarship, it's important to remember that PSAT scores are not used in the college admissions process.

What happens if you are sick on PSAT day?

If you got sick during the test or if something else happened that may have negatively affected your score, speak with your counselor regarding your options. Remember that while the PSAT is important for National Merit Scholarships, it also provides terrific practice in preparing to take the SAT® or ACT® down the road.

What happens if you don't take the PSAT in 10th grade?

No. The PSAT in 9th or 10th grade is just for practice, although a high score can qualify you for some great free summer programs at top schools. However, the PSAT in October of your Junior year is also the National Merit Scholarship Qualification Test (NMSQT), and that is kind of a big deal.

Are PSAT mandatory?

Most high schools require their students to take the PSAT in the fall of junior year (and many pick up the $16 cost), either for their own assessment or for a state requirement. Many schools additionally require the PSAT 8/9 and the PSAT 10.

Can you take PSAT twice?

But before weighing your options, bear in mind that the College Board has the following restrictions: Students may not take the PSAT more than three times total, more than once a year or as high school seniors. Consider retaking the PSAT if: You're interested in earning scholarship money.

What grade is PSAT taken?

Most students take the PSAT/NMSQT once—in 11th grade. Some schools also offer it to students in 10th grade. They can take it only once per school year. Some scholarship programs only look at the junior year PSAT/NMSQT score.

Is there a makeup for PSAT?

Unfortunately, the PSAT/NMSQT is offered officially only once a year in October, with a primary test day and an alternate test day. If you missed both, there isn't an option for an individual makeup.