PSAT to SAT Conversion: What Your PSAT Score Really Means
For many high school students, the PSAT is the first serious step on the road to college admissions. It gives students a sense of what to expect on the SAT and can even lead to scholarship opportunities through the National Merit Scholarship Program. But a common question students and parents ask is: "How does my PSAT score compare to the SAT?"
In this article, we’ll explain how PSAT and SAT scores relate, how to estimate your SAT score from your PSAT, and how to use that information to plan your test prep effectively.
What Is the PSAT?
The Preliminary SAT (PSAT) is a standardized test administered by the College Board. It’s essentially a practice SAT and is officially called the PSAT/NMSQT—short for the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.
Key Points:
Taken in 10th or 11th grade
Not sent to colleges
Used to determine National Merit eligibility (11th grade only)
Helps students identify strengths and weaknesses before the SAT
Scoring: PSAT vs. SAT
PSAT Score Range:
Total score: 320–1520
Math section: 160–760
Reading & Writing section: 160–760
SAT Score Range:
Total score: 400–1600
Math section: 200–800
Reading & Writing section: 200–800
The PSAT is slightly easier and scored on a slightly lower scale. The maximum score on the PSAT is 1520, compared to 1600 on the SAT.
PSAT to SAT Conversion Table (Rough Estimates)
Here’s a quick way to convert your PSAT score to a projected SAT score. Keep in mind this is an estimate, not a guarantee.
A good rule of thumb: Add 30–80 points to your PSAT score for a rough SAT estimate, assuming you continue preparing and learning between tests.
How Accurate Is the PSAT as a Predictor?
The PSAT gives you a reliable baseline, but it’s not a crystal ball. Students often score higher on the SAT if they actively prep after taking the PSAT. On the other hand, students who do little or no preparation may see flat or even lower results.
Your performance on the PSAT is influenced by:
Timing (grade level and math level completed)
Testing conditions
Familiarity with standardized testing
Whether or not you took it seriously
Using Your PSAT Score to Plan for the SAT
Your PSAT score isn’t the final word—it’s a starting point. Here’s how to use it strategically:
Diagnose your strengths and weaknesses – Break down your performance by question type and section.
Set a realistic target SAT score – Use your college goals to determine what SAT score you need.
Build a study plan – Focus on the areas where you missed the most points.
Take practice tests – Simulate the full SAT experience to track your progress.
Register for the SAT early – Pick a test date that gives you enough time to prepare and retake if needed.
Understanding your PSAT score in the context of the SAT can help take the mystery out of test prep. While it doesn’t predict your SAT score with precision, it gives you a valuable checkpoint along the way. With preparation and a plan, most students can improve significantly between the two tests.
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