Difference between PSAT and SAT?

Kinda stressed out here. Could someone explain to me, in simple words, what is the difference between PSAT and SAT? And which one should be my priority right now as a junior?

When it comes to the PSAT and SAT, the primary difference lies in their purposes. The PSAT, also known as the Preliminary SAT, is typically taken by high school sophomores and juniors as a way to practice for the SAT. Notably, as of Spring 2024, the PSAT is also the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT), so for high-scoring juniors, it provides an opportunity to qualify for certain scholarships.

On the other hand, the SAT is used by colleges as a part of their admissions process. Starting in 2024, the test became fully digital. It is often a critical factor in the application process and can heavily influence a student's odds of admission.

As to which one you should prioritize, keep in mind that the PSAT offers practice for the SAT and a shot at the National Merit Scholarship, but it's the SAT scores that colleges will look at during admissions. For a junior, taking the PSAT early in the year can provide a helpful benchmark before focusing on SAT prep.

In terms of structure, both tests have the same format: two 32-minute Reading and Writing modules to complete 54 questions and two 35-minute Math modules to complete 44 questions. Both tests are 134 minutes long.

That said, the SAT score is factored into the Academic Index at many schools, making it potentially a higher-stakes test. Colleges do not see PSAT scores unless you become a National Merit Finalist or list the score on your application.

In short, while the PSAT can provide valuable practice and potential scholarship opportunities, the SAT is regularly a key component of college applications, suggesting that as a junior, you should start transitioning towards focusing more on preparing for the SAT.