Need help understanding the *new* PSAT levels of tests

Test Preparation SAT Preparation
1

So, as I now understand it, starting in October there will be three DIFFERENT PSAT tests:
Grade 8/9 PSAT
Grade 10 PSAT
Grade 11 PSAT/nmsqt

Is this correct?

Originally I thought that this was going to be the same test that was just normed to the different grades, but I guess I was wrong. I’m still having a hard time understanding this. The only test I care about is the 11 PSAT/nmsqt. I’ve just read in the Global Ivy New PSAT book that students in 10th and 11th grade can take the Grade 11 PSAT/nmsqt test. I’m don’t understand why grade 8/9 students shouldn’t take the Grade 11 PSAT/nmsqt if they are taking it as practice for the goal of National Merit.

Are grade 8/9 students not allowed to take the Grade 11 PSAT/nmsqt test? If grade 10 can choose the Grade 10 or Grade 11 test why would they pick the grade 10 PSAT???

2

Partially answering my own question, it looks like the College Board wants 10th graders to take PSAT twice once in Oct (grade 11 PSAT/nmsqt) and again in the spring (grade 10 PSAT) as a pre-PSAT test.

I’m still wondering if you have a kid that’s working on an advanced level in 8/9 grade (already completed geometry, honors English) if that student would be better off taking the Grade 11 PSAT/nmsqt or the Grade 8/9 PSAT?

Is taking 5 PSAT tests really necessary?

3

It is only necessary for the College Board’s bottom line. I guess they are trying to compete with the ACT Plan/ACT Asprire.