What is the PSAT?

Cosponsored by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) — often shortened to PSAT — is a standardized test targeting 10th and 11th graders across the U.S. Every year approximately 3.5 million students take the PSAT test at various high schools.

Who Takes the PSAT?

All AISD 9th, 10th and 11th Grade students.

But WHY?

• The PSAT helps prepare you for the SAT.

• The PSAT identifies areas for improvement.

• The top 50,000 scorers in the 11th grade can compete for Merit Scholarships. 

• The PSAT scores can help the Khan Academy prepare for you a personalized program of study for the SAT.

What do I need to do to sign up?

Absolutely nothing! All you need to do is to eat a good breakfast and show up on time to school. 

Do I need to prepare? and HOW?

• All students will receive a booklet through their English teachers with sample questions and other information.

• How much you prepare is completely up to you.

• 10th graders just need to show up. It is a practice for their 11th grade PSAT.

• If you feel that you have the potential to be a top scorer, by all means prepare.

• You may

  • Practice with Khan Academy for free.

  • Enroll in a PSAT Prep class.

  • Look online for practice tests.

  • Get a practice or prep book

• However, the PSAT will not affect your ability to get into college or hurt you in any way. SO NO STRESSING!

Where do I test?

• Just like the first day of school, you will find your testing room posted on the walls throughout the school.

What if I need accommodations?

• To receive accommodations, you must request them through your counselor and through College Board. We suggest that 9th and 10th grades take the test "as is" their first year.