If you need help studying for the PSAT or just want some more information about what the test is like, you’ve come to the right place.
Click below to take a free PSAT practice test!
What’s on the PSAT?
How to Register
PSAT Scores
Retaking the PSAT
PSAT Online Course
FAQs
Self-Assessment Modules
Subject-Specific PSAT Practice Tests
If you need some extra practice in a specific subject, click one of the subjects below to get started on a subject-specific PSAT practice test.
What’s on the PSAT?
The Preliminary SAT (PSAT), is really just a practice test for the SAT, so the format and number of questions are the same as the SAT. There are 98 total questions grouped into two sections, and you’ll be given approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes as a time limit.
Let’s take a closer look at each section of the PSAT.
READING AND WRITING
54 questions | 64 minutes
For each question, you’ll be given a different passage to read and analyze. The passages will cover various topics, including literature, history, science, social studies, and the humanities.
This section is further divided into four broad categories:
- Craft and Structure
- Information and Ideas
- Standard English Conventions
- Expression of Ideas
MATH
44 questions | 70 minutes
Here’s some good news: you can use a calculator throughout the entire math section! You can bring your own calculator or use the digital calculator built into the testing system.
This section is further divided into four broad categories:
- Algebra
- Advanced Math
- Problem-Solving and Data Analysis
- Geometry and Trigonometry
How to Register
To get started with the registration process, you’ll need to check with your school counselor/administrators. The PSAT is typically offered during school days in October. The base fee is $18, but your school might cover it for you.
PSAT Scores
Your PSAT score will appear in two parts: section scores and a total score.
Each section of the test is scored on a scale of 160-760.
Total Score
Your final total score is determined by adding up your two section scores. This means your total score will range between 320 to 1520.
As mentioned earlier, the PSAT is just for practice, so colleges will not be looking at your PSAT scores. However, a high score can make you eligible for scholarships!
PSAT Study Guide and Flashcards
Get practice questions, detailed study lessons, and complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts.
Retaking the PSAT
If you don’t get the score you want on your first try, that’s okay! You can take the test up to three times during high school. It’s offered annually, so you could take it as a freshman, sophomore, and junior.
Something to keep in mind is that the National Merit Scholarship typically only counts the score you get in your junior year.
Online PSAT Prep Course
If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers an online PSAT prep course. The course is designed to provide you with any and every resource you might want while studying. The PSAT course includes:
- Review Lessons Covering Every Topic
- 950+ PSAT Practice Questions
- More than 450 Digital Flashcards
- Over 220 Instructional Videos
- Money-back Guarantee
- Free Mobile Access
- and More!
The PSAT prep course is designed to help any learner get everything they need to prepare for their PSAT exam. Click below to check it out!
FAQs
What is a good PSAT score?
A total score of 1210 or higher is considered to be a good PSAT score. The average score is 920.
What is the PSAT?
The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) is used as a practice test for the SAT and gives you the chance to qualify for certain scholarships.
What is a good PSAT score for a sophomore?
The average PSAT score for sophomores is around 920.
When do PSAT scores come out?
The day you receive your score depends on when you take the test. The score release dates are October 24, November 7, and November 14.
What does PSAT stand for?
PSAT/NMSQT stands for Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.
What is the PSAT out of?
The highest score you can get on the PSAT is 1520.
How long is the PSAT?
The time limit is about 2 hours and 14 minutes.
How many questions are on the PSAT?
The test contains 98 questions.
