PSAT / NMSQT Test Prep Tutoring

The PSAT is more than just a practice test. We have found that students who prepare for the PSAT tend to do better. Our flexible PSAT prep courses help students use the PSAT as a valuable learning and confidence-building tool.

What is the PSAT?

The PSAT, or Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test, is a test you take before the SAT. It helps you understand what to expect on the SAT. Around 3.5 million students take it each year.

It’s known as a practice SAT, but it also helps with qualifying for National Merit Scholarships. It’s also called the PSAT/NMSQT.

The PSAT has three main sections, just like the SAT: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. There’s no essay, and there’s no negative marking, just like the SAT.

The PSAT/NMSQT helps you qualify for the National Merit Scholarship. Annually, 7,500 students with great scores and who meet other requirements receive scholarships.

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Top Reasons Students Choose to Take the PSAT

The PSAT, or Preliminary SAT offers some advantages to students to help them in their academic and college journey. Here are the key reasons students decide to take the PSAT:

Practice for the SAT
Identify Strengths and Weaknesses
Qualify for Scholarships
College Readiness
Access to College Planning Resources
Boost Confidence

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Who Should Consider Preparing for the PSAT?

Preparing for the PSAT isn't something that every student is meant to do. Some groups of students will really benefit from specific preparation. Here’s who should think about getting ready for the PSAT:

1. Smart Students Looking for Scholarships
If you’re getting A’s in tough classes and doing well on other tests, the PSAT is your chance to shine. High scores can qualify you for the National Merit Scholarship, which gives out scholarships to about 7,500 top students each year.
2. Students Applying to Private High Schools
If you’re aiming to get into a private high school, the PSAT can help. Some private schools use PSAT scores for admissions instead of or in addition to other tests like the SSAT or ISEE. Preparing for the PSAT can't hurt your chances of admission.
3. Students Who Get Nervous About Tests
If tests make you anxious, practicing for the PSAT can help you feel more confident. You’ll learn strategies to handle the stress and get used to the test format, making the whole process less scary.
4. Students Who Want to Identify Strengths and Weaknesses
The PSAT is a great way to see where you excel and where you might need extra help. It provides valuable feedback that can guide your future studies.
5. Parents and Educators Supporting Students
Parents and teachers who want to support their students’ academic growth should encourage PSAT preparation. It’s an investment in their future success.

A Guide to the Digital PSAT Test Sections

The PSAT exam is divided into three main sections, each with a set number of questions and a specific time limit. Students are required to complete each section within the allotted time to avoid losing marks for any unanswered questions. The entire test lasts 2 hours and 45 minutes. Since the PSAT does not penalize for wrong answers, students are encouraged to make educated guesses to maximize their scores.

Each section of the PSAT is equally crucial, and students should aim to perform well across all sections. While the PSAT provides a composite score similar to the SAT, individual section scores are also important and are closely evaluated by educators.

PSAT Reading

The Reading section, also referred to as the Evidence-Based Reading section, assesses a student's ability to comprehend and analyze written passages. Students must read the provided passages carefully, think critically, and extract key information to answer the related questions.

Writing and Language

The Writing and Language section evaluates students' skills in identifying and correcting grammatical errors. This section also requires students to improve phrases and optimize the context of sentences to ensure they are grammatically accurate and well-constructed.

Math

The Math section of the PSAT is split into two parts. The first part, which does not allow the use of a calculator, is 25 minutes long. The second part, where students can use a calculator, lasts for 45 minutes. Both parts test various mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills.