Each fall, the PSAT becomes a bit of a buzzword. This fall, that’s true more than ever, given the PSAT is all digital — but fear not! This test should not be a source of student stress. Here’s what you and your child should know.

What was new in 2023?

For the first time, the PSAT was digital. It followed the format of the Digital SAT, which began in March 2024 for students in the United States (learn more on our Digital SAT hub). This means taking the test on a computer, a shorter test time, shorter reading passages, and a calculator for all math sections. It’s a great opportunity for students to get a sense of what the Digital SAT will be like. All of these changes will stay in place for the 2024 PSAT.

When will the PSAT be offered?

This school year, the PSAT will be offered between October 1-31. Individual schools will decide on which days to offer the test. Check with your school or district for specifics.

What does the PSAT mean for my child? 

If your child is a junior, they’ll take the PSAT/NMSQT. While some juniors are shooting for a high score, many use the PSAT as a practice round as they prep for the SAT (or ACT). The top scorers qualify for National Merit Scholarship consideration.

If your child is a freshman or sophomore, they may have the opportunity to take another test like the PSAT 10 or PSAT 8/9 this year. These tests do not have implications for National Merit Scholarships. You can find more information about those tests on the College Board website. 

Should my child take the PSAT? 

While some schools require that all juniors take the PSAT, at other schools, it is optional. Whether or not your child should choose to take the PSAT depends on their circumstances.

If your child is a strong test-taker and has a chance at a National Merit Scholarship, they should take the PSAT. If the scholarship is not a strong consideration, there is still no real downside to taking the PSAT—it can provide valuable experience with standardized testing for future ACT or SAT tests.

However, if your child struggles with tests, and it will add undue stress, taking the PSAT is not a necessity. You’ll want to weigh the pros and cons. If taking the PSAT isn’t right for your child, that’s okay!

What should I know about the National Merit Scholarship Program? 

High scores on the PSAT can result in a “Commended Scholar” letter of commendation (for students who fall just below semi-finalist criteria) or qualify the student as a semifinalist. Students are notified of their status in early September of their senior year, and semifinalists must complete an application for consideration as a finalist. Winners can receive $2500 National Merit scholarships, corporate-sponsored scholarships, or college-sponsored scholarships.

About 95% of semifinalists become finalists upon submitting the application, and students usually find out the results in February of their senior year. To qualify to be a finalist, students must also take an SAT or ACT by December of their senior year.

Will colleges see PSAT scores? 

No – colleges have no access to PSAT scores (nor, in fact, any tests delivered by the College Board or ACT!), and they do not ask for PSAT scores as part of the admissions process. Typically, the only way a college interacts with a PSAT score is by seeing that a student has earned National Merit designation.

How is the test structured? 

Reading and Writing:

• • 2 modules
    
  • 32 minutes per module
    
  • 27 questions per module
  • Students will see a lower or higher difficulty Module 2 based on their accuracy in Module 1

Math

• • 2 modules
    
  • 35 minutes per module
  • 22 questions per module
  • Students will see a lower or higher difficulty Module 2 based on their accuracy in Module 1

What can my child do to prepare?

The College Board has released two PSAT practice tests in the Bluebook app. With only two practice tests available, though, we don’t suggest that students take that practice test right away. We are here to help your child determine an individual study plan.

Check out these tips for what to expect to ensure every high schooler is ready to perform to the best of their abilities. 

Reading and Writing Strategies

• • Look at what the question is asking.
    
  • Read the passage. Use the annotation tool to highlight any important information.
  • Go back to the passage for context when answering questions.
  • Read the whole sentence to understand the structure.
  • Look for the simplest, clearest answer that does what the question asks.

Math Strategies

• • Get your pencil moving! Even with a digital test, students should use scratch paper to show work.
    
  • Make sure you know what the question is asking.
  • Use the in-app Desmos calculator — it’s a powerful tool.
    

Test day tips

• • Get a good night’s sleep the night before (and the few days before, too).
  • Answer every question. Remember, there is no guessing penalty.
  • Get your supplies ready. Make sure your device is fully charged, and have a power cord just in case.
    

Good luck! We are cheering you on! We are always here to help—feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns about the PSAT.