Be ready for the PSAT/NMSQT

by Claudine Vainrub, Principal of EduPlan / Thursday, 03 October 2019 / Published in College Admissions

PAST/NMSQT:

Taking the PSAT/NMSQT is important as a freshman, sophomore and junior. Why? It is your opportunity to take a standardized test and see how you do, without having to worry that colleges or programs will see your scores (they don’t).It’s also a great way to prepare for the regular SAT and juniors it is your opportunity to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship. Here are 5 tips to help you get ready.

5 Steps to Prepare for the PSAT in October:

REGISTER: Get yourself registered for the PSAT at your high school. The test is offered at your school in October (this year that date is October 16 for most schools). Check with the counseling office about the date and how to register.

GET READY: Get a list of what to bring on test day and what to leave at home.

GET FAMILIAR with the PSAT: Look at the College Board website for information about what the questions are like in the PSAT, how long it is, and what to expect.

PRACTICE for the PSAT: Take a practice test on the College Board website. Various websites such as Khan Academy also offer practice tests, practice questions and personalized preparation for the test.

Take a GUESS: On the PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT10, you earn points for the questions you answer correctly there is no penalty for getting a question wrong. Give your best answer to every question. If you don’t know, just guess (you may get it right). There’s no advantage to leaving them blank.

Take Action:

Check with your counselor for registration and test dates. Register yourself for the PSAT at your high school and mark your calendar for the test date.