PSAT Prep
Get a head start on test preparation and improve your chances at a National Merit Scholarship.
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About the PSAT
The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is a standardized exam administered by the College Board and offered in the fall to juniors at most high schools. It tests students’ math, reading, and writing skills. The primary purpose of the PSAT/NMSQT is to familiarize students with the SAT, but it also serves the important function of determining a student’s eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship program. That means that of the millions of students who take the test, about 50,000 of the highest scorers are recognized: roughly 34,000 as Commended Students and about 16,000 as Semifinalists, chosen by state cutoffs. Semifinalists who complete the scholarship application can advance to Finalist, as about 15,000 do each year. These designations not only look great on college applications but can also mean major scholarship money.
Like the digital SAT, the PSAT/NMSQT has two sections, Reading and Writing, and Math, and each adapts to the student by module; there is no Essay section. Students are given 2 hours and 14 minutes to complete the test.
The College Board also administers two additional versions of the PSAT: The PSAT 8/9 and the PSAT 10, offered to students in grades 8, 9, and 10 as their names indicate. Though these tests aren’t directly related to college scholarships, they do serve as good barometers of college readiness, as well as useful introductions to the SAT.
About Elite PSAT Prep
Elite’s PSAT programs help students get a head start on the test preparation process and improve their chances of receiving a National Merit Scholarship. Students take practice tests and dive into challenging curriculum, so they’re completely comfortable with the test and fully prepared to take the PSAT during their sophomore or junior year.
Expert Instructors
We’re proud of our faculty, and at Elite, we only hire the best: experienced teachers who are experts in their fields and display
the energy and enthusiasm necessary to engage students.
Proven Results
Since opening our doors in 1987, Elite Prep has helped tens of thousands of students reach their academic goals. We know there’s no limit to your student’s potential, and we’re here to help them realize it.
More Than Test Prep
Instead of focusing on tips and tricks to simply “beat the test” we strive to instill a true passion for learning and teach fundamental academic skills to help students excel in college and beyond.
Ready to raise your PSAT scores?
We offer a variety of PSAT prep options to fit your timeline, budget, and goals. Contact us to schedule a free practice test and consultation!
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- Why does the PSAT matter?
- The PSAT/NMSQT matters for two reasons: it's the best practice for the SAT, and for juniors it is the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program. High scores can lead to Commended or Semifinalist recognition, which looks good on college applications and can lead to scholarship money. The College Board gives the test in the fall at most high schools.
- When is the PSAT given, and how do students register?
- Students don't register themselves. The PSAT/NMSQT is given at school, on a date each school picks within the fall testing window. In 2026 that window ran from October 1 to October 30. Ask your school counselor which date your school has chosen and how to sign up. Prep should start well before the window opens.
- Which grade should take the PSAT?
- Juniors should take the PSAT/NMSQT, because only the junior-year test counts for National Merit. The College Board also offers the PSAT 8/9 and the PSAT 10 for grades 8 through 10. Those don't count toward scholarships, but they are useful checks of college readiness and early practice for the SAT. Elite prepares students to take the PSAT in sophomore or junior year.
- How is the PSAT different from the SAT?
- The PSAT/NMSQT tests the same skills as the SAT, math and reading and writing, in a slightly shorter and easier test, and like the SAT it has no essay. That makes it a good preview, and preparing for one builds the skills and test familiarity that carry over to the other.
- How does Elite's PSAT prep work?
- Students take realistic practice tests and work through a demanding curriculum taught by experienced instructors, so they are fully comfortable with the test before they sit it. The goal is a head start on the whole SAT process and a better chance at National Merit recognition. Contact us to schedule a free practice test and consultation and hear about options that fit your timeline.
- Is PSAT prep worth it if my student will take the SAT anyway?
- Yes. Most of what students learn for the PSAT carries straight over to the SAT, because the PSAT exists mainly to get students used to the SAT. Preparing early gives a junior a real shot at National Merit recognition and gives the family an early score to plan SAT prep around. Since 1987, Elite Prep has helped tens of thousands of students reach their academic goals.