The PSAT is usually given in October for sophomores and juniors. While it is not necessary, students should take the opportunity to brush up on their PSAT/SAT skills before taking the test. Students may receive a National Merit Scholarship by scoring a high score on their PSAT. Each year some 55,000 high school students are honored in NMSC programs and more than 10,500 of the most outstanding participants receive scholarships worth a total of $50 million for college undergraduate study. Students can sign up at their individual high schools for the October PSAT.

Many students take a PSAT test during October of their sophomore year.  Yet, some don’t start until their junior year.  Whenever you plan to take it, it’s nice to feel a little prepared for what to expect.  This year the PSAT’s will be offered on Wednesday, October 12^th (at private high schools) and Saturday October 15^th (at public high schools).  Below I’ve enumerated some tips for taking your junior year PSAT test:

WHY SHOULD I TAKE THE PSAT?

This test is important because it’s good practice for the actual SAT and you could receive a National Merit Scholarship (scholarship given from the NMSC).

HOW DO I TAKE THE PSAT?

Your school should register you, but just in case, in September make sure you’re registered for the October PSAT.  You can prepare by using old PSAT or SAT exams.

REASONS FOR TAKING THE PSAT/NMSQT
(NMSQT = National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test)

1. You can get results which could tell you what you need to study for the SAT.
2. You can then focus your preparation in those areas.
3. You can see how your score relates to other students applying to college.
4. You can familiarize yourself with standardized testing and with the kinds of questions you’ll see on the SAT.
5. RESULTS from the PSAT will give you and your counselor a good idea of your strengths and weaknesses.  If you took your 10^th grade PSAT, did you do better this time?  What do you need to work on before you take your first SAT?
6. BOOKS for PREP?  What book should I use to study for the PSAT?  There are a few PSAT study guides out there, but the best way is to study old PSAT tests–especially the one offered by your school/what you get in the mail from the College Board.