What PSAT score range are colleges actually looking for?

I'm curious about the PSAT and how much it matters for college admissions. What score range on the PSAT do colleges typically look for, or is it just the SAT/ACT scores that really count? Any insights on this would be super helpful!

Hello there! I understand that you're looking into the PSAT and its importance for college admissions. Primarily, it's important to know that colleges do not see or consider PSAT scores for admission decisions. The PSAT serves as a practice test for the SAT, and its most notable function is to qualify students for the National Merit Scholarship Program. For this particular scholarship competition, a high score (often in the top 1% or approximately 1400-1520 out of 1520, though it can vary by state) is definitely beneficial.

That being said, your focus should generally be on preparing for the SAT or ACT, as those scores are indeed part of the college application process. The PSAT can provide a valuable early indication of the areas where you might need extra practice before taking the SAT or ACT. Many students use their PSAT results to guide their study plans and improve on weaker areas. So, while colleges are not looking at PSAT scores, maximizing your performance on the PSAT is still a good idea as part of your broader college admissions strategy. Remember to keep up the great work in your academic and extracurricular activities as well—those are key components of your college application too!