When it comes to applying for a college education, you will come across different tests the college board offers. If you anticipate your college admission, you will have heard about the SAT. The PSAT comes after the SAT but what makes it different than the SAT? Should you consider it just a practice test? Is it a test? Though there are several similarities between the SAT and PSAT they also have key differences. If you are in high school and preparing for higher studies, continue reading to learn about the differences between these tests.
What Is The PSAT?
This is also called “Preliminary SAT” which is a practice SAT test that mimics the settings of the nearly original SAT. It is taken before the actual SAT. The PSAT Test is sometimes called the NMSQT or “The National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. This is because students who perform well in the tests can be qualified for the “national merit scholarship.
Why Take the PSAT/NMSQT?
If you have to opt for PSAT/NMSQT then it isn’t just about the practice test. You can assess and track your progress over time. This test will also provide you with better knowledge about your strengths anhttps://ivytp.com/good-sat-score-for-the-ivy-league/d weaknesses. Knowing this will help you to set realistic goals regarding SAT test scores. You can also get the best recommendation about the AP course that suits your skill set perfectly. The PSAT/NMSQT distinguishes itself within the SAT assessment suite through its affiliation with the National Merit Scholarship Program. It allows students who excel in the test and fulfill the required scores and program criteria to be eligible for recognition and scholarships administered by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).
What Is SAT?
Students who aspire to study in prestigious educational institutes around the US will need to pass the SAT exam. Though colleges have become test-optional these days, having passed this exam can significantly be beneficial for them. Colleges evaluate the academic strengths and readiness of the students for higher education. The college boards also compare the applicants with the scores.
The score assessment is different for each college. Top-tier colleges such as Ivy League will require outstanding scores while some colleges may not consider them. Furthermore, having a strong SAT score will help you stand apart and be eligible for scholarships based on your academic performance.
What Are The Similarities Between SAT and PSAT?
In simple words, both of these tests are almost similar with some key differences. Both of these tests are governed by the college board so students will have a general idea regarding one of the tests. Here is what makes both tests similar:
Here’s a table highlighting the key similarities between the SAT and PSAT:
Both of these tests evaluate similar skills and have the same section structure. However, the PSAT Test is slightly shorter and has a lower maximum score. Also, PSAT is usually considered a practice test for SAT but the SAT is a standard test for college admissions.
What Makes PSAT Different From SAT?
Here’s a table that lays out the key differences between the SAT and PSAT for students new to both tests:
The SAT is more advanced by nature and getting a high score is crucial in this test. PSAT acts as a practice test with a realistic setting and helps students to understand the area of improvement. SAT helps students to have a better probability of getting college admission. Also, the SAT assesses the student’s education level with more advanced content. The PSAT/NMSQT also provides better opportunities for scholarships to students with high scores.
When And How Many Times You Can Take The PSAT Exam?
Candidates can only take the PSAT once a year. It is held mostly in October. On the other hand, the SAT is held around 7 times throughout the school year. One can take this test on a school SAT day. Though students are expected to take the PSAT test only once they take the PSAT many more times to gain higher scores. Also, the PSAT can only be taken at school but the SAT is taken in both schools and colleges.
How To Practice For The Exams?
As you have noticed how similar both of these tests are similar, you can have the advantage of studying for one test and preparing for both. Here is how you can prepare for the PSAT/SAT exams perfectly.
- Always understand the format of each test before answering.
- Answer those questions that you know the best
- Approach the questions one by one and answer all of them.
- Know your time limit and work accordingly.
- Bringing a timer or stopwatch can be a good idea but not the smart watches as they aren’t allowed.
- Do not act in a rush, understand each question before answering.
Final Thoughts
PSAT and SAT both are some of the most important tests for college admission test. If this is your first time preparing for college admission then you may want to be cleared about both tests. Though they are nearly identical, they are still different on several levels. PSAT is the practice SAT test and SAT is an actual and advanced level test. In this post, we have summarized all of the major differences and similarities between the PSAT and SAT. Make sure to understand both and prepare accordingly for better credits.
