What is the PSAT?
PSAT/NMSQT stands for Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. It's a standardized test that provides firsthand practice for the SAT Reasoning Test™. It also gives you a chance to enter National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) scholarship programs.
The PSAT/NMSQT measures verbal and reasoning abilities and produces a verbal and a math score and has a writing section. Students and parents shouldn’t become overly concerned about PSAT results as they are not submitted to colleges. The very top scores are used to determine National Merit eligibility for U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Students register at school for the test.
The PSAT/NMSQT measures: (5 sections total)
- critical reading skills - Two 25-minute sections
- math problem-solving skills - Two 25-minute sections
- writing skills - One 30-minute section
The whole test requires two hours and 10 minutes.
Critical Reading
Two 25-minute critical reading sections = 48 questions
Math
Two 25-minute math sections = 38 questions
Students are advised to bring a calculator with which they are comfortable. Students should have basic knowledge of 4 math categories:
- Numbers and Operation
- Algebra and Functions (but not 3rd year level math that may appear on the new SAT)
- Geometry and Measurement
- Data Analysis, Statistics and Probability
Writing Skills
One 30-minute writing section = 39 questions
These multiple-choice questions on writing skills measure a student's ability to express ideas effectively in standard-written English, to recognize faults in usage and structure, and to use language with sensitivity to meaning.
Should I take the PSAT?
All 10th or 11th grade students planning on attending university should take the PSAT! It is good preparation for the SAT or for any university entrance test. As well, PSAT results are used to determine some end of year student awards.
When is it?
ISM will administer the PSAT on Wednesday, Octoeber 15 from 8:30am-11:30am in the HS Gym.
How do I register for the PSAT?
Simply pay $17 US (cash or cheque in US funds) to the ISM cashier’s office between Sept 13th and Oct 5th. There is a limited number of tests available so students will be accommodated on a first come, first served basis.
Upon payment you will receive:
· A receipt – which serves to act as your confirmation ‘ticket’ – do not lose this and bring it on test day!
· An “Official Study Guide to the PSAT/NMSQT”
What do I need to do to prepare for the PSAT?
Not much. Simply read the PSAT booklet you will be given
What do I need to bring on the day of the test?
ISM school ID
Approved Calculator
Receipt
No. 2 pencils
Eraser
Calculator
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