PSAT/NMSQT Information
School-Day PSAT
Grade 11 PSAT Overview & Information
Grade 11 Preliminary SAT (PSAT)
The (Preliminary SAT) PSAT provides valuable feedback on strengths and the skills necessary for college study. Students can then focus their preparation on areas that could most benefit from additional study or practice. The PSAT measures critical reading skills, math problem-solving skills and writing skills. Visit the district Assessment page for more information.
ALL Assessment News
May 2025 AP Exam Details.
State Required Assessments Schedule.
Why take the PSAT/NMSQT?
Provides valuable feedback on strengths and the skills necessary for college study. Students can then focus their preparation on areas that could most benefit from additional study or practice. The PSAT measures critical reading skills, math problem-solving skills and writing skills.
Gives insight on how a performance on an admissions test compares to others applying to college. Helps students prepare for the SAT. Students will become familiar with the kinds of questions and the exact directions they will see on the SAT.
Could help Juniors qualify for Scholarships. The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) for Juniors is a program co-sponsored by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corp. (NMSC). The PSAT/NMSQT can qualify students for the National Merit Scholarship Program and other scholarships. To prepare, get practice tests with official SAT practice on Khan Academy online.
For more information about the SPS School Day PSAT/NMSQT please refer to the district PSAT and SAT webpage.
PSAT Preparation Resources
PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide
View the PSAT/NMSQT resources on the College Board website.
What to Expect with the Digital PSAT/NMSQT Video
PSAT/NMSQT Scholarship Information
Practice Resources
- Create your free College Board account
- Check out the College Board website for FREE test prep resources.
- Review approved calculators for the PSAT
- Visit College Board PSAT to learn more about the PSAT/NMSQT.
- Preparing for the Digital PSAT/NMSQT with CollegeBoard.
- The College Board has partnered with Khan Academy to provide a personalized practice program. Visit the Khan Academy to find ways to prepare for the SAT using PSAT results. Students will become familiar with the kinds of questions and the exact directions they will see on the SAT.
National Merit Scholarship Program
The PSAT/NMSQT is the route of entry into the National Merit Scholarship Program for Juniors. Questions specific to National Merit Scholarship Program should be directed to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation or to College Board.
Free or Reduced Lunch (FRL) Benefits
The PSAT/NMSQT helps Juniors prepare for the SAT and is used to qualify students for scholarships and advanced learning opportunities. These tests are offered to all Juniors free of charge; no pre-registration is required.
Students who qualify for Free or Reduced Lunch (FRL) may be eligible to receive additional benefits from the College Board. Visit the district School Day PSAT page for more information.
Using PSAT Scores to Prepare for the SAT
Students will need to log onto their College Board accounts to view their PSAT/NMSQT scores and use them to prepare for when the take the SAT. PSAT Scores from October 2024 should be released by November 14, 2024. Refer to the College Board Getting Scores site for all the information you need and a video as well.
Students should receive their original PSAT test booklets in their Language Arts class. If you would like to learn more about how to understand your scores and get tips for preparing for the SAT or need assistance with your College Board account, come to the Ballard Counseling Center, the BHS counselors are there to help.
Grade 11 Juniors, to learn more about the SAT visit the Ballard HS SAT Information page. To understand your PSAT scores and how to link your test results with free Khan Academy practice tests tailored just for you to prepare for the SAT view video on the College Board site. In addition learn more information about practicing for the SAT on College Board as well.