What's a good PSAT score for a 9th grader?

I just took the PSAT as a freshman and I’m trying to set a benchmark for myself. What score range should I be aiming for in 9th grade to be competitive down the line?

Hello there! It's wonderful that you're already thinking ahead about your PSAT scores. As a 9th grader, it's important to remember that the PSAT is primarily a practice tool for the SAT you'll take later on. At this stage, any score that you achieve provides a starting point for future improvement. Generally, scores will naturally increase as you progress through high school since you'll be learning more content and improving your test-taking skills.

For a competitive benchmark, aim for a score that is at or above the national average for freshmen. As you may already know, the PSAT score range is from 320 to 1520. A mid-range score for 9th graders might be around 920 to 1010, while scores closer to 1100 or above are quite strong. Keep in mind that by the time you're a junior, you'll want to aim higher, especially if you're targeting National Merit Scholarships or admission to selective universities. Practice and preparatory courses can help boost your scores as you advance in high school. Focus on learning from your freshman PSAT experience, identify areas for improvement, and don't stress too much about the numbers at this stage. You're just getting started, and you have plenty of time to grow!