The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test, or PSAT, serves as a practice test for the SAT and a qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship Program. It is typically administered during the academic year. Students most commonly take the PSAT in their sophomore or junior year of high school. However, a specific version, the PSAT 8/9, is designed for students in eighth and ninth grades. Thus, the availability of this test determines how early a student might engage with standardized college preparation assessments.
Taking the PSAT, even the PSAT 8/9, offers several advantages. It provides early exposure to the format and types of questions found on the SAT, allowing students to become comfortable with standardized testing. It also generates personalized feedback on strengths and weaknesses, guiding future study plans. Furthermore, familiarity with the test-taking environment can reduce anxiety and improve performance when taking the SAT for college admissions. The PSAT 8/9 can establish a baseline for academic progress and identify areas requiring further development throughout high school.
