Is there a 'high score' threshold for the PSAT that I should be aware of?

So, I just got my PSAT scores back, and I'm struggling to understand where I stand. What's considered a high score on the PSAT, and how will colleges view it if it's part of my application?

Hey there! First off, great job on taking the PSAT — it’s a solid step in your college preparation journey! To get straight to your question, a 'high score' on the PSAT is typically one that falls within the top 10% of test-takers. For some perspective, scores in the range of 1400-1520 are often considered very competitive. However, it's important to remember that the PSAT is mainly used as a qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program and doesn't directly factor into college admissions in the same way SAT or ACT scores might. Colleges usually look at your high school GPA, SAT/ACT scores, extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation, but the PSAT isn’t typically part of that list. It can be a useful indicator of how you might perform on the actual SAT, giving you a heads-up on areas to focus your study efforts. If your score is already in that higher percentile range, you’re on a great path! If it’s not, don’t worry — you’ve still got time to prep before the SAT or ACT. Keep up the hard work, and use this experience to guide your preparation!