Unpacking the PSAT

Juniors and sophomores who took the October PSAT will see scores released in two phases.

• November 6th release for tests taken 10/14 or earlier

• November 16th release for tests taken 10/15 or later.

Below are some frequently asked questions.

click on the arrows to reveal answers

My student did not take the October PSAT, is that a problem?

For most students, the PSAT is taken to become comfortable with the SAT, understand a baseline score, and start considering a testing timeline. If your student's school requires registration to take the PSAT and your student missed registering, it is not the end of the world. Students can take a practice SAT using their Khan Academy account anytime. We also offer a free diagnostic SAT with our tutoring partner Arbor Bridge. Winter break is a good time to do this.

My student took the PSAT, but I don’t think it is a representative score.

Students are welcome to take a diagnostic SAT. Another score can validate if the PSAT score is a good baseline to set expectations.

How can I tell if the SAT or ACT test is the best test for my student?

If motivated, students can take an SAT and an ACT diagnostic test over winter break. Our process to help families navigate the question about the role of standardized tests include

• Consultation on test results

• A review of the school research list or program of study if it requires competitive test scores.

• Understand if a test-optional school is friendly to test-optional applications

• Consider if self-study is the best first option.

• Does a score indicate enrichment tutoring is needed first?

• Will an investment in tutoring provide a return?

• Should we let go of standardized tests entirely and focus on a test-optional application?

My student performed well on the test; how can we tell if the score is likely in the range for National Merit Scholarship consideration?

Junior-year scores are considered, but sophomore-year scores are not. National Merit Semi-Finalists are announced fall of Senior Year, and score levels vary by state. See Class of 2023 scores by state

How can I find out if my student’s school is offering the SAT school day?

Taking the test on a Wednesday at school can be less stressful than at 8:00 am Saturday. Most schools will offer an SAT school day, and will select a date from the range of March 4th to April 26th next year. Knowing this date will help the student set up a test-prep timeline.

When should my student consider their self-study timeline?

Students should begin practicing questions and taking practice tests starting ten weeks before the test. Cramming for the test is not a viable option. But first, to save yourself wasted time and resources, understand the role of standardized tests for schools on their research list before preparing.

Is test-optional a valid application type?

The most recent data shows that almost 50% of students using the common application applied test optional. Most schools report in their Common Data Set the percentage of the most recently enrolled class submitted scores. This is helpful information.

What selective and Flagship state schools have not yet announced test-optional policy for the Class of 2025

Wondering which schools are requiring scores or have not decided yet - see a list here (remember, this data is changing)

A student’s academic profile is more than how they perform on one test day. The rigor of the high school curriculum and good grades are the best indicators of long-term academic success in college.

Foreshadowing to next year...Senior year schedules must have a rigorous academic load, even if the student is told they have enough credits to graduate.