The Whole PSAT vs SAT Test Debate

Hi, I'm pretty confused here guys. What exactly is the difference between the PSAT and SAT test? My guidance counselor says I should take the PSAT in my junior year, but I'm not really sure what it's for. Is it like prep for the SAT? Will colleges look at it? I'm just finding this all super overwhelming.

You're asking great questions, and it's perfectly natural to find this testing landscape a bit overwhelming at first!

The PSAT and the SAT are both standardized tests, but they serve different purposes.

The PSAT, also known as the Preliminary SAT, is often taken by students in their sophomore or junior year of high school. The primary function of the PSAT is to prepare students for the SAT by providing a sense of the format and question types. Additionally, the PSAT taken in the junior year serves as the qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship Program, a competition that awards scholarships based on PSAT scores.

On the other hand, the SAT is the test that colleges and universities typically require for admission. This test usually gets taken in the junior or senior year, and its scores are part of your application packages to colleges.

Now, if you're wondering if colleges look at your PSAT scores, the answer is typically no. The PSAT is primarily a diagnostic tool for you to gauge your preparedness for the SAT, and your performance on the PSAT doesn't directly affect your college applications.

As for the structure, the PSAT and SAT are similar. They both cover the same areas: Reading and Writing, and Math. Also, beginning in fall 2023, both tests became digital and follow the same structure. Each has two 32-minute Reading and Writing modules and two 35-minute Math modules.

Remember that these exams are just one component of your overall college application, and there are many other factors in the admission process. I hope this helps clear things up!