Hey everyone, just got my PSAT score back and it's a 900. I'm kinda stressing about how this will play into my college applications. Should I be worried? How much do colleges actually look at PSAT scores, and can a strong application elsewhere make up for it?
Hey there, first off, take a deep breath! PSAT scores are primarily used as a preliminary indicator of how you might do on the SAT and to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program. For college admissions, schools will be looking at your SAT or ACT scores, and many are test-optional now, meaning you don't have to submit test scores if you don't want to. Plus, good grades, strong letters of recommendation, and meaningful extracurriculars can definitely bolster an application.
If you're still planning to take the SAT, your PSAT score can be a helpful starting point to guide your preparations, identifying areas where you can improve. Remember, the PSAT is not typically a part of the college admissions equation. When you do take the SAT, schools will focus on that score instead.
Also, a lot of great schools out there may not rely as heavily on standardized test scores, but rather place more emphasis on other areas of your application. So, don't worry too much about a PSAT score of 900; focus on what you can control moving forward and work on enhancing other parts of your application. Best of luck!
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