Hey fellow high school juniors. It's about that time we start taking the PSAT and I'm a little unclear about the scoring. How exactly do they calculate the scores?
The PSAT, also known as the Preliminary SAT, uses a score scale of 320-1520. You might initially think this is strange, given that the SAT uses a score scale of 400-1600, but the PSAT is designed to be slightly easier than the SAT, so its range is smaller.
PSAT scoring is broken down into two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW), and Math. Each section has a score range of 160-760, and the total PSAT score is the sum of these section scores. But how do we get to these section scores, you might ask?
Here's how the scoring works:
1. You get one point for every correct answer.
2. Incorrect or blank answers do not subtract from your score, so it's in your best interest to guess if you're unsure.
After the raw scores (total number of correct answers) are calculated for each section, they're then converted to scaled scores using a process called equating. This is done to make sure the scores are consistent across different versions of the test, taking into consideration the varying difficulty levels. The result of this conversion process is your final scaled score.
Since the PSAT went digital in 2024, the test consists of two sections each for Reading and Writing and Math. For Reading and Writing, you have two 32-minute modules to complete 54 questions. For Math, you've got two 35-minute modules to complete 44 questions.
And remember, the PSAT doesn’t penalize for guessing, so don't leave any questions unanswered.
The PSAT scores are ultimately used to determine eligibility and qualification for the National Merit Scholarship Program, with the highest scoring students in each state receiving acknowledgement. But don't stress too much about it. The primary function of the PSAT is to give you a sense of what to expect on the SAT and how well you'll perform.
Good luck on your PSAT preparations and the test!
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