What is the PSAT?

The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is a standardized test administered by the College Board and co-sponsored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). It serves as both a practice test for the SAT and a qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship Program. The PSAT assesses skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, reflecting the knowledge and abilities essential for college and career readiness.

PSAT 2025 Structure

The PSAT is composed of two main sections:

• Reading and Writing
• Math

The total testing time is 2 hours and 14 minutes, with a total of 98 questions/tasks.

The breakdown of the sections is as follows:

Reading and Writing Section: This section evaluates comprehension and reasoning skills through passages and related questions. It includes multiple-choice questions that test understanding of texts from various subjects, including literature, history, social studies, and science.

Math Section: This section measures mathematical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of concepts. It covers topics such as algebra, geometry, and data analysis. Some questions require written answers, while others are multiple-choice.

PSAT Scoring Breakdown

The PSAT provides several score reports to help students understand their performance:

• Total Score: Ranges from 320 to 1520, combining the scores from the two sections.
• Section Scores: Each section (Reading and Writing, Math) is scored between 160 and 760.

Additionally, the PSAT offers:

• Test Scores: Scores for Reading, Writing and Language, and Math, each ranging from 8 to 38.
• Subscores: More detailed insights into specific skill areas, ranging from 1 to 15.
• Cross-Test Scores: Reflects performance on questions that integrate knowledge across multiple subjects, scored from 8 to 38.

National Merit Scholarship Qualification

The PSAT/NMSQT serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Eligibility is determined by the Selection Index, which is the sum of the test scores for Reading, Writing and Language, and Math, each multiplied by two. The Selection Index ranges from 48 to 228. High-scoring students may receive recognition and scholarship opportunities through this program.

How to Register for the PSAT

Registration for the PSAT is typically handled through high schools. Students should consult with their school's guidance office to determine the registration process, test dates, and fees. The PSAT is usually administered in October each year.

For more detailed information on the PSAT, including study resources and practice tests, visit the official College Board website.

Prepare for the PSAT with Practice Questions

Achieving a high score on the PSAT 2025 requires effective preparation and familiarity with the exam format. Start practicing today with our comprehensive PSAT question bank.