What is
the PSAT and how is it used in the college admission
process?
The PSAT is the Preliminary
Scholastic Achievement Test and is available for high
school
students to take in October of their 10th and/or 11th grade years.
Basically, it
is a mini-version of the SAT I (Scholastic
Achievement Test). It consists of four 30
minute sections
alternating between verbal and math. It provides a trial run for
students prior to taking the SAT I test as they approach the college
selection process.
Scores from the PSAT are not used by colleges
and universities in their selection of
students for admission.
Only the 11th grade PSAT relates in any way to college
admission,
since the results of that test are used to determine eligibility for
National
Merit Scholarships. As a result, it is also referred to
as the NMSQT or National Merit
Scholarship Qualifying Test.
Registration for the test and pamphlets describing the
details of
the PSAT program are normally available in high school guidance
offices.
What standardized tests will I
be required to take for college admission?
Students need to be aware that
many colleges and universities give applicants the
option of
reporting scores from either of two testing programs, the ACT or the SAT.
However, applicants need to be aware that some institutions may
require or have a
stated preference for one test or the other.
Following are brief descriptions of each
program. Bulletins
describing the programs more completely are normally available in
high school guidance offices. Tip: Get online Homework help and
resources ....
ACT (American College Testing)
Program: The
test consists of four parts; English,
Math, Reading Comprehension
and Science Reasoning.
SAT I (Scholastic Achievement
Test): Use of
a calculator is permitted, although it
is not required. The test
consists of two parts - Verbal and Math.
SAT II (Subject Tests):
These are
one-hour tests in specific subject areas.
Pamphlets and materials
describing each test are available in high school guidance
offices Students may take one, two, or three tests on a registered
test date. Note,
however, you may not take SAT I and SAT II tests
on the same test date.
Recommendations:
Take the
PSAT at least once - in the 11th grade. If you have a
history of
testing well, you may qualify for a National Merit Scholarship. Trial runs
will
help you will develop testing skills and self confidence.
You should attempt to develop
a strong testing profile. Since
many institutions will give you the option of reporting
scores
from either or both testing programs, you should take both the ACT and SAT
I
at least once. Take SAT II (Subject Tests) when appropriate and
as soon as possible.
Try to take the tests as soon as you finish
a course in that subject, while the material
is fresh in your
mind. Tip: Start your college search early!
