-Make like a snowflake and chill. The PSAT is just a benchmark to see how students do on the College Board brand of test. Some students do significantly better on the ACT. Others benefit from applying to testing optional schools. No two students are alike (another thing in common with snowflakes), so resist the urge to make comparisons.
- To convert a PSAT score to an equivalent SAT score: add a zero to the end of each section. The PSAT sections are out of 80, the real SAT sections are out of 800.
- PSAT scores are distributed on a normal curve, meaning a small percentage of people score very low and very high, but the majority of students score in the middle. For the PSAT, this means most students in the nation score around a 50 on each section. Learn more about SAT score by clicking here.
- It is useful to look at not just the raw score, but also the percentile. For students that are testing in a top percentile (say 85th percentile or higher) this may indicate a natural ability on standardized tests and it may mean that the student should explore taking SAT Subject tests in the end of their 10th or 11th grade year if they are considering applying to highly selective colleges where these exams are required. Most colleges do NOT require SAT Subject Tests, but for those that do the best candidates are the students that are naturally strong test takers. If a student is in a lower percentile, they are probably better served bringing up their main SAT score before devoting time and energy to an SAT Subject Test. Some schools also allow the ACT with writing to count in place of the SAT and Subject Tests, so if students are not ready for Subject Tests as underclassmen it does not necessarily mean that they lose the opportunity to apply to these selective schools.
- Utilize My College Quickstart. Students can register for free online test prep from the College Board that is personalized to their strengths and weaknesses based on the PSAT. Don't miss this opportunity to get individual feedback on how to improve. A little bit of practice over a long period of time is a great way to improve your scores. Please note, the College Board username and password will be the same for the rest of high school. Do NOT make duplicate accounts or make an account in a parent's name. This should be completed by the student.
- Maximize your reading time in Advisory to really push your reading level. The best way to improve your SAT Critical Reading and Writing score is to read high level books. It is no accident that ElRo asks students to read books outside of those that are assigned for class. Opt for high level books (and even consider reading with a dictionary on hand) to learn vocabulary and expand your literary horizons.
Still confused about testing? Please attend the testing info night on Tuesday, January 25 at 5:00 pm in the Auditorium.
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