Will My PSAT Predict My SAT?

Article Type: Quick and Dirty

So, you just got that PSAT® score into your hot little hands, and you're asking it, what are you gonna do for me? Do you even predict SAT® scores, bro?

Well, aside from the fact that your PSAT can snag you a National Merit Scholarship (oh, that's what NMSQT stands for), we'll give you the short answer to that burning question:

Yes. Your PSAT score should predict your SAT score. 

Play Nice, SAT Suite

But it hasn't always been that way. Once upon a time (in 2014), the PSAT and the SAT had two completely different scoring scales. Trying to compare scores between the two tests was like comparing apples to orangutans—only with less risk of being bitten by an orangutan. Word on the street was you had to multiply your PSAT by 10, add a prime number comprised of 3 digits, and perform a song and dance for the College Board gods. And then realize you were the exception when you got your SAT back and the math was way off.

Don't worry: there were a lot of exceptions to those janky rules. What's the point of standardized testing if it's not uh, standard across the board?

When the College Board decided to redesign the tests, creating an updated scoring system was a top priority, and now the tests all play together nicely. Total scores on the PSAT/NMSQT range from 320-1520, while scores on the SAT range from 400-1600. Here's a more detailed breakdown.

The Skinny on Scores

So, why are the ranges still different? Well, the PSAT is a tad less challenging, since younger students are taking it. If you score an 1100 on the PSAT, it means that if you'd taken the SAT on the same day or with no extra prep, you could expect to score an 1100 on the SAT, too. 

So, just because you get a perfect score on the PSAT doesn't mean you'll get a perfect score on the SAT.

The good news? The College Board expects you to be preparing in the meantime—and Shmoop does, too—so you should be able to improve your score. 

If you score a 500 on the Math section, get that brain working between PSAT time and SAT time and shoot for a 550. You'll have demonstrated a growth of 50 points. If you want to dive deeper into the nitty gritty of the SAT Suite's scoring system, the College Board lays it out here and here.

And for test prep that'll help you conquer exam day, Shmoop's got your back.

SAT is a registered trademark of the College Board, which was not involved in the production of, and does not endorse, this product.

PSAT/NMSQT is a registered trademark of the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which were not involved in the production of, and do not endorse, this product.

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