Want to know what a good PSAT score for a sophomore is? Generally, scoring 1060, or 75% or higher percentile, is considered a good score.
This means that you scored equivalent to or higher than 75% of sophomores that took this exam. It places you on a good threshold for your upcoming SAT exams, helping you gauge your level of preparedness.
Taking the PSAT in your 10th grade or sophomore year is critical in preparing you for the SAT. It helps you familiarize yourself with the test and determine where to improve.
With this knowledge, you can prepare more for a better SAT score. You can also qualify for the National Merit Scholarship program with a high score.
If you want to know more about PSAT, how it is scored, and how to prepare for the exam, then this article is for you.
What exactly is PSAT?
PSAT, or Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test, is a standardized exam organized by the College Board. This exam prepares 10th graders or sophomore students for the upcoming SAT.
It also serves as a preliminary exam to prepare students for the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program. High-performing students from the SAT are awarded a college scholarship.
Why is the PSAT so important?
The PSAT is important because it gives you a first-hand experience with your Scholastic Assessment Test.
It also gives a projectile of what your SAT score could be like in your junior year. This gives you more knowledge of your strengths and weaknesses and prepares you better for your SAT.
Additionally, PSAT gives you an insight into how much study you would need to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
How is the PSAT scored?
Generally, the preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test is scored between 320 – 1520 points. The scores are derived from two sections that scored between 160 – 760 and are added to form the composite score.
One section of the score is obtained from math, while the other is for evidence-based reading and writing, or EBRW. In a few states, it comes in 3 sections, where the reading and writing are calculated solely.
What is a good PSAT score for a sophomore?
Generally, a good PSAT score for a sophomore is in the 75th percentile or above. This percentile shows that the student score around 1060 – 1070. It also shows that you scored better than 75% of sophomores who took the exam.
However, you should aim higher to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
The NMSP considers students with a score up to the 99th percentile. You must be among the top 1% of students who scored highest to qualify for the scholarship program.
How can you get a better PSAT score?
Getting an excellent PSAT score is the first step in assuring you a good SAT score and potentially qualifying for the NMSP. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare for this test.
1. Set a target for yourself
Set a target or goal for yourself and work towards achieving it. If you aim for the 75th percentile, you should target a score above 1060.
Additionally, if you want to go the extra mile to qualify for the NMSP, your target should be at the 99th percentile. This means targeting to be among the top 1% who scored highest in the exam.
2. Study toward your set goals
Study frequently to ensure you reach those set goals. Attend classes regularly and make extensive notes on each topic. Another good habit is to take note of topics you find difficult.
Afterward, create a reading schedule so you have more time to study difficult topics. It may also help you to be more motivated if you study in groups or with colleagues.
3. Revise the past question
One of the best ways to improve your PSAT score is to start practicing or revising old questions. Utilize official PSAT and SAT past questions through College Board and Khan Academy.
These are partner websites where past questions are accessible to practice with. Many of these past questions, especially maths, are still relevant today, and a few are likely to surface in the next exam.
Just ensure you familiarize yourself with these questions, knowing how to solve them and other similar questions.
4. Target your weakness
After you have taken a practice test with past questions, take note of the questions you got wrong. Did you do well in math and badly in reading and writing, or is it the other way around?
Take note of particular subjects or topics you got wrong or particularly challenging. Then, when studying, focus on them and find ways to improve on them.
5. Get a tutor if you need to
There is no harm in seeking the help of your teacher or a tutor if you need to. It shows just how hardworking and committed you are to your education.
Talk to the tutor about those topics you find challenging or always get wrong during your practice test. Your tutor will help you learn strategies to handle these topics.
FAQs
Why should you take the PSAT?
Taking the PSAT helps give you an insight into what your SAT would look like. It gives you a projectile of what you may score to do better and be eligible for scholarship programs.
What PSAT score do you need to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship?
Generally, you must score up to the 99th percentile and be among the top 1% highest exam scores.
What is a good PSAT score for the Ivy League?
To attend an elite college like the Ivy League, you should aim to score between 1280 and 1520.
Is 900 a good PSAT score for a sophomore?
Scoring 900 on your PSAT as a sophomore is okay, but you must study more to score higher on your SAT.
Does PSAT predict your SAT score?
Yes, it does. The PSAT is administered to predict what your performance on the SAT would be like. However, you still have time to prepare and earn a better score.
Conclusion
According to the College Board, a good PSAT score for a sophomore is 1060. This puts you at the 75th percentile, showing that you scored equivalent or better than 75% of students who took this exam.
This test is administered to sophomores to give them a gauge or projection of their SAT experience. With proper preparation, a sophomore can score higher and even be eligible for a college scholarship.
I hope you enjoyed this article; if you did, you should also see what a good SAT score is and how to prepare for it.
Thanks for reading.
