The Preliminary SAT (PSAT) is a standardized test administered by the College Board, primarily for students in the United States, in their junior year of high school. In addition to helping students prepare for the SAT, the PSAT serves as a qualifying exam for the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program. Understanding how to calculate your PSAT score and how it relates to National Merit can be beneficial in planning your academic future.

Calculating Your PSAT Score

1. Understand the scoring system: The PSAT consists of three sections: Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (EBRW), Math (No Calculator), and Math (Calculator). Each section is scored on a scale of 160-760, with the total PSAT score ranging from 320 to 1520.

2. Calculate your raw scores: For each section of the test, you’ll receive a raw score based on the number of correctly answered questions minus one-quarter point for each incorrect answer. Blank or omitted answers do not impact your raw scores. Add your correct answers and subtract one-quarter point for incorrect answers to determine your raw scores for each section.

3. Convert raw scores to scaled scores: Raw scores are converted to scaled scores using equating tables developed by College Board. These tables can vary slightly from year to year but can typically be found online once released. Look up your raw score on this table and find the corresponding scaled score for each section.

4. Determine your total score: Add together your scaled scores for all three sections (EBRW and both Math tests). This sum represents your total PSAT score.

Calculating Scores for National Merit

1. Calculate the Selection Index score: The National Merit Scholarship Program uses a Selection Index score rather than the total PSAT score when determining eligibility. To determine this score, double the EBRW section’s scaled score and then add the scaled scores of both Math sections. Divide the result by 10.

2. Learn about qualifying scores: The minimum Selection Index score required for National Merit varies by state and changes each year. Typically, these scores are released in September, about one year after taking the PSAT. Visit the National Merit Scholarship Corporation website to find current or past qualifying scores for your state.

3. Compare your Selection Index score: If your Selection Index score meets or exceeds your state’s published qualifying score, you’ll likely become a National Merit Semifinalist during your senior year.

Conclusion

Calculating your PSAT score is an essential step in understanding your academic performance and determining eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program. By becoming familiar with the scoring system and how it relates to National Merit considerations, you can better plan and prepare for future academic opportunities.