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. It’s also a great way to prepare for the regular SAT and it is the only test you can take (as a junior) to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship. What can you do to be as prepared as possible for this important test?
5 Steps to Prepare for the PSAT in October
- REGISTER for the PSAT at your high school. This test is scheduled by your high school, for a time in October. Be sure to register to take the test. Check with the counseling office to be sure there will be room for you to take the test.
- 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.
- PREPARE for the PSAT. Get a group of your friends together and set a time each week to spend preparing for the PSAT. You will have more fun, and be less likely to shrug off the practice.
- Use RESOURCES to prepare for PSAT. Khan Academy, and other test prep resources offer practice tests, practice questions and personalized preparation for the test.
- Start EARLY. Don’t wait until the week before to prepare. Start now (in September) to prepare for the test.
Take Action
Add the PSAT to your test schedule in GuidedPath. Select the “Schedule Test by Type” option under the “Tests” menu and then use the green “Add a new test” button to add the PSAT. Check with your counselor for registration and test dates. Watch a video on how to add a test within GuidedPath.
