(NAPSI)—Every autumn, more than 4 million sophomores and juniors take the PSAT/NMSQT. When students get their test results in December, they get much more than a score—they get an invitation to productive practice and a connection to distinct benefits and opportunities to support their journey to college.
Like the SAT, the PSAT/NMSQT reflects what students are learning in the classroom, measures the skills and knowledge necessary for postsecondary success, and is an important step toward college. The PSAT/NMSQT is great practice for the SAT because both tests have the same question types and formats. Students who take the PSAT/NMSQT score higher, on average, on the SAT than those who don’t.
How It Helps
Students and educators can use the scores to see where students are thriving, and where they need support. PSAT/NMSQT scores are on the same scale as SAT scores, making it easy to track student progress over time.
After taking the PSAT/NMSQT, students can link their College Board account to Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy (satpractice.org) and use their score to get a free personalized SAT study plan focusing on the areas where they need the most work. With Official SAT Practice, students can access video lessons on how to solve a problem step by step; test-taking tips and strategies; thousands of interactive practice questions with instant feedback; full-length, free practice tests from the College Board; and a customized practice schedule. More than 9 million students have used Official SAT Practice.
Scholarship Opportunities
As the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program, the PSAT/NMSQT connects students to more than $300 million in scholarships opportunities, including the National Merit Scholarship Program, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, the United Negro College Fund, and more.
AP Potential
Students’ scores can also help indicate their potential to succeed in challenging Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Students can review their PSAT/NMSQT score report with their counselors and teachers to discuss which courses to take. AP Potential is designed to help increase access to AP and ensure that no student who has the chance of succeeding in AP is overlooked. Students who succeed on AP Exams can save money on tuition and are more likely to graduate on time.
The PSAT/NMSQT plays an important role in clearing a path to college and career success for all students.
Learn More
For further facts and tips, go to www.psat.org.