1. How is the PSAT different from the SAT?
Now that the tests are digital and adaptive, the tests are almost identical. They are the same length and cover the same content. The only difference is that the total PSAT score is 1520 instead of the full 1600, so the individual questions on the PSAT are worth a bit less. Additionally, the most challenging questions should not get quite as hard as the SAT. Studying for the PSAT and the SAT should be very similar, so you can do them both together!
2. Can I use my iPad on the PSAT?
Yes! You can use most tablets (WITH KEYBOARDS!), apple laptops, Windows PCs, and school-issued Chromebooks. See the device requirements here!
3. How is the PSAT scored?
Questions are divided into Easy, Medium, and Hard and given slightly different values based on difficulty, but we don’t know for sure how this is calculated.
If you reach a certain score threshold on the first section of each subject, you receive a harder version of the test with higher-value questions and, therefore, the potential to get a higher score.
If you get the easier version of the second part, your questions will be easier so you can get more of them correct, but they aren’t worth as much. So, there is a limit to how high you can score.
The English section scores between 200 and 760, and the Math section is given the same. Then the two are added together to get your composite score out of 1520.
4. What is the minimum score for National Merit Scholarships?
This changes every year! National Merit chooses the top students from each state, totaling 50,000 nationally, so the cut-off is determined by how those top students perform. However, it’s safe to say you’ll want at least a 700 on each subject.
5. How do I get extra time on the PSAT?
You’ll need to work with your school counselors to submit your accommodations request, as well as evidence of your diagnosis and the accommodations that the school provides for you on tests. Here’s a super detailed guide on each step of the process!
6. Are the official Bluebook PSAT practice tests easier than the actual test?
In general, students who receive the harder version of the official test on test day tend to report that the last couple of questions in each section are harder than anything they’ve encountered on the practice tests. However, the bulk of the test will be similar in difficulty.
If PSAT students want to experience the hardest possible PSAT, they could try doing an SAT practice test instead.
7. What are the hardest PSAT questions out there?
CollegeBoard doesn’t release questions they’re currently using; in general, the hardest Reading questions will be poetry analysis of works prior to 1900, and the hardest Math questions will be Algebra II material with messier calculations (such as finding a fractional solution, solving for constants with the quadratic formula, etc.). You can find a PSAT sample question bank here!
8. How to get a 1400 on the PSAT in a month?
A high score on the PSAT requires three things:
1. Complete comfort with the Bluebook testing app and digital tools
2. An understanding of how the test is written so you can interpret what questions are asking for, and
3. Regular practice with PSAT questions and concepts.
9. Are there any cheap test prep resources for the PSAT?
The Bluebook practice tests are free: There are two PSAT and six SAT practice tests. This is great if you mainly need to get familiar with the digital testing platform.Â
CollegeBoard also has a partnership with Khan Academy for you to complete all of the practice questions on every subject your heart desires. This is great if you mainly need help with concept review.
However, both of these resources lack one critical component: Strategy guides on interpreting the questions and approaching each subject accordingly. This requires a test prep expert!
If you’d like an affordable course that prepares you for both the PSAT and SAT your junior year, check out our (P)SAT 2-in-1 Course for just $195!
