What Is a Good PSAT Score?

A good PSAT score is one that puts you at a competitive advantage. Aiming for a score between 1210 and 1520 will put you in the 90th percentile of test takers. An excellent score can earn you commendations and help you land scholarships.

Keep reading to find out more about the PSAT, how it’s scored, and why you might want to take it.

PSAT scoring explained

In your four years of high school, you can sit for three Preliminary SATs (PSATs). All tests are given by the College Board with the participation of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). 

Eighth and ninth graders can take the PSAT 8/9. It’s a shorter test that lets students get a feel for how to prepare and write for a standardized test. The PSAT 8/9 is scored on a scale of 240 to 1440. 

Sophomores can take the PSAT 10. Its format, length, and scoring are the same as the PSAT. Both tests have the same number of questions and a time limit of two hours and 45 minutes.  The difference is that the PSAT 10 only includes topics for that grade level.

In case you’re already in 11th grade and didn’t think to write the PSAT 8/9 and 10, no need to panic. The test that really matters is the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), taken during the junior year. This official PSAT is what qualifies students for scholarships.

The test is divided into two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math. Each section is worth 160 to 760 points. Your score is the total of points from each section, meaning the overall PSAT score ranges between 320 to 1520.

PSAT score range vs SAT score range

The PSAT and SAT are similar but not the same. Think siblings instead of twins. That means the PSAT is a great way to gauge how well you’re going to do on the SAT. 

However, the SAT has more advanced topics and will be more challenging. You’ll also need more stamina for the SAT. At three hours, it’s 15 minutes longer than the PSAT and includes more questions. 

The SAT is scored from 400 to 1600, while the PSAT is scored between 320 and 1520. Even if you get a perfect score on the PSAT, it may not mean you’ll get the same on the SAT. 

For example, a 1430 score on the PSAT may mean you’re in the 99th percentile of test takers. But getting the same score on the SAT puts you in the 95th percentile. In general, you’re advised to earn 50 to 70 points more on the SAT to stay in the same percentile as your PSAT score. 

PSAT score ranges

How the PSAT is scored can be a tad confusing, but here’s what you can expect. Your score report will show:

• Two section scores ranging from 160 to 760 for the two main sections: EBRW and Math.
• Three test scores ranging from 8 to 38 on each of the three tests: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math.
• Two scores based on selected questions that pertain to the following topics: Analysis in History/Social Studies and Analysis in Science. 
• Seven subscores ranging from 1 to 15 in the following areas of study: Command of Evidence, Words in Context, Expression of Ideas, Standard English Conventions, Heart of Algebra, Problem-Solving and Data Analysis, and Passport to Advanced Math.

Visit the College Board website to find out more about how the PSAT test is structured and what to expect. For practice tests and preparation tips for both the PSAT and SAT, check out Khan Academy.

Now that you know what to expect on the test, let’s talk about the scores you should aim for and where that ranks you with other high school students.  

Excellent PSAT score range

The best PSAT/NMSQT score you can have is anywhere between 1210 to 1520. Obviously, a perfect score is amazing and would earn you commendations.

But know that you’re still in the top 10% of test takers as long as you achieve a score above 1210. As both sections of the PSAT allow for maximum scores of 760, you should aim for 605 points or higher on each.

Competitive PSAT score range

A total score of 1070 or higher is considered a competitive score. It puts you in the 75th percentile rank, which is highly competitive for scholarships and college admissions. 

Make sure to study and prepare for the test. To get a composite score of 1070 or better, aim for your reading and writing scores to be about 560 to 610. And try to get the same or higher in the Math section.

Good PSAT score range

The PSAT scaled scores make it so that most students score around the halfway mark of 920. Statistically, this is true. The average PSAT score for 11th graders is 1010 and 920 for 10th graders. 

In this regard, an average PSAT score of 950 to 1060 puts a student in the top 50th percentile range. This means getting a score between 500 to 550 in each section. But don’t hold yourself back. If you are better at Math than Reading and Writing, aim for a higher Math score.

Below average PSAT score range

Anything under an overall score of 950 is considered below average for the PSAT. It means the student’s score for the Reading and Writing sections was below 500 points, and the same goes for their Math score.

If you do get a below-average score, don’t worry — it only means you have room for improvement. Now, you know what to work on.

What can your PSAT score tell you?

The PSAT is designed to test your college readiness and prepare you for the SAT. You can get a feel for how to sit for a standardized test with a time limit. Below are other ways taking the PSAT can be beneficial for you.

Identify key study areas for the SAT

Before you take any of the major tests like the PSAT, SAT, or ACT, take time to set a measurable and specific goal to work toward. A target score to aim for depending on your college goals will also help you focus your study plan.

In this regard, your PSAT score shows you a benchmark of where you are and how much work you need to do. For example, say you’re aiming for 1400 on the SAT. Your PSAT score can help you find areas where you can improve. 

It’s also helpful that your PSAT score report includes a breakdown of each section you were tested on. You’ll see the topics where you did well and what you need to focus on to achieve your target SAT score. 

Stand out to colleges

If you’re planning to apply for competitive programs at the top colleges and universities, doing well on the PSAT is in your best interest. Getting a high score is great for your college applications, as you can earn National Merit titles like Commended Student, Semifinalist, Finalist, or Scholar. This can help you stand out to colleges and fast-track your acceptance. 

Qualify for select scholarships

When you’re thinking about possibly writing the PSAT, consider its potential to earn scholarships. It might mean a lot of work. But getting a high score qualifies you for scholarships even if you didn’t do as well in your freshman or sophomore year.  

One of the most tangible results is qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship Program. It’s called the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test for this reason.

Even if you don’t receive the National Merit Scholarship, being a semifinalist or a finalist makes you eligible for corporate-sponsored merit scholarships and other college scholarships. 

For instance, Texas Tech University offers a full ride to finalists who declare the school as their first choice. As another example, National Merit semifinalists and finalists can qualify for a full-tuition award at Fordham University. 

Need help finding the best school for you? Use College Rover

Whether you’re actively looking to land scholarships, fill your college applications with accomplishments, or just want to see how to write a standardized test, the PSAT can help you achieve your goal. We highly recommend that you write it.

To help make college planning easier, check out all the resources we offer at College Rover. Research schools, programs, and more on one site! 

We save you time researching schools, programs, and more. You’ll have more time to study — or party. We don’t judge.