PSAT and SAT TOMORROW
For Sophomores and Juniors, April 13th can be a daunting date. It is the day of the PSAT and the SAT. These two standardized tests can be confusing and pose lots of stress, so keep reading to learn more about them and why you should take them.
PSAT: What is it?
The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) is a standardized test taken by Sophomores. It includes two sections: math and evidence-based reading and writing. The two sections are scored and then compiled for one larger score. The scores range from 320 to 1520 and go by 10 point increments.
Why Should You Take It?
One is the chance to win a National Merit Scholarship if your scores are high enough. This is a highly competitive scholarship, so it is not guaranteed for any students. The second reason is more applicable to all students; the PSAT will help you gauge what you need to study more for the SAT. It is the perfect opportunity to test what you know and see what you don’t. The PSAT is not used in any college admissions decisions, so it can be used for your own personal gain.
SAT: What is it?
The SAT is another standardized test used by colleges and universities to compare you to other applicants. The SAT has three sections; math, reading, writing and language. Each section is scored separately and then compiled into one score to evaluate you overall. The SAT is used by most colleges and universities, although some do offer test-optional when you apply.
Why Should You Take It?
The SAT is an excellent chance to score yourself and use it for college admissions. You can always take the SAT over again and you are not required to send it to all of your colleges on applications. A more local reason to take the SAT and PSAT is for exemption from exams as a senior. If you get proficient scores on the PSAT, SAT verbal, SAT math, and NGSA (science testing), you can be exempt from exams in your senior year with a grade of 80 or better. If you are proficient on 3 of the 4, you will be exempt with an 85; proficient on 2 out of 4, exempt with an 87; and proficient on 1, exempt with an 89.
How To Prepare For Both the PSAT and SAT
You can prepare for both of these tests in similar ways. Not everyone studies as vigorously for the PSAT to truly test what they know without preparation. If you do decide to study, you can use Khan Academy for both of these tests. It is free to use and will help you to practice for all sections of SAT. Studying for both of these tests can be highly beneficial and if you are not satisfied with your score on the SAT you can always practice more and retake the test.
Good luck to sophomores and juniors taking the PSAT and SATs tomorrow!