PSAT -- Is it worth it taking it for me?

Test Preparation
1

Hey everyone,

I’m a junior and my school is requiring that everyone (except for seniors) take the PSAT tomorrow. I’m not sure if I want to take it; I’ve already taken the ACT and SAT and I’m satisfied with the scores I’ve gotten.

On the ACT, I got a 34 (36 English, 30 Math, 36 Reading, 34 Science) and I’m happy with it. On the SAT, I got a 1370 (710 Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and 660 Math) and I’m not as enthusiastic about this score.

I know the PSAT prepares you for the SAT, but I have no intention of retaking the SAT. The only way the PSAT might be helpful for me is if I somehow qualify for the National Merit Scholarship or if it somehow prepares me for the Literature SAT subject test I’m taking in the spring. However, my highest score I’ve ever gotten on the SAT/PSAT is a 1370. If this is what I get tomorrow, I won’t qualify as a Semifinalist for the National Merit Scholarship.

Is it worth taking it at all? Thank you!

2

If you got a 34 on the ACT you are in NM cut off range for many if not all states in terms of equivency. That said, the PSAT is kind of weird, you have to be extremely accurate. I know kids I thought for sure who would get it who didn’t and kids who came out of no where to get it. But I think it’s worth a try if it’s still an option for you.

3

I agree a 34 ACT seems to indicate that a good PSAT is possible. You should do a few math practice sections tonight if you can and take your chances tomorrow.

The way the National Merit score works is that they double the English, add the Math, remove the zero on the end. This plays to your strength since your English section is higher.

4

Thank you for your input AroundHere and MusakParent. Unfortunately, the test was today and I didn’t end up going. However, I might look into taking it this Saturday. Thanks again!