The test is composed of three sections: Mathematics, Critical Reading, and Writing, and takes two hours and ten minutes to complete. Each of the three sections is scored on a scale of 20 to 80 points, which add up to a maximum composite score of 240 points. This parallels the SAT, which is graded on a scale of 200 to 800 (the narrower range is to distinguish from which test a score comes and to denote less accuracy). However, unlike the new (2005) SAT, the new PSAT does not include higher-level mathematics (e.g., concepts from Algebra II) or an essay in its writing section (which was added to the SAT in 2005).
The sum of the three scores is known as the Selection Index and is used, along with four general criteria for eligibility such as U.S. citizenship (or be a U.S. lawful permanent resident or have applied for permanent residence, the application for which has not been denied, and intend to become a U.S. citizen at the earliest opportunity allowed by law), for both preliminary and primary selection in the National Merit Scholarship Programs. The minimum Selection Index for recognition as a Semifinalist is determined by selection unit (50 states, three other geographic units, and a number of boarding school regions) and is set by the NMSC in each at whatever score yields about the 99th percentile.
Students not recognized as Semifinalists whose Selection Index is above a different limit are recognized as Commended Students and receive Letters of Commendation. This minimum is determined nationally and is set at whichever score yields the 96th percentile.
After being confirmed as a Semifinalist (which occurs one year after taking the PSAT as a junior), students must complete an application to become a Finalist. Other factors besides the PSAT Selection Index score are taken into account, such as the student's Grade Point Average (GPA) and extra-curricular activities. However, these criteria are not particularly rigorous, and simply completing the application is typically enough to advance to Finalist standing, since approximately 15,000 of the 16,000 Semifinalists become Finalists.
The PSAT/NMSQT has five sections: Two critical reading sections, two math sections and one writing skills section
The whole test requires two hours and 10 minutes.
Critical Reading Section
Two 25-minute critical reading sections with a total of 48 questions
- 13 Sentence completions
- 35 Critical reading questions
Math Section
Two 25-minute math sections with a total of 38 questions
- 28 multiple-choice math questions
- 10 Student-produced responses or grid-ins
You will be tested in these 4 categories:
- Numbers and Operation
- Algebra and Functions (but not 3rd year level math that may appear on the new SAT)
- Geometry and Measurement
- Data Analysis, Statistics and Probability
You are allowed to use a calculator.
Writing Skills Section
One 30-minute writing section with a total of 39 questions
- 14 Identifying sentence errors
- 20 Improving sentences
- 5 Improving paragraph questions
These multiple-choice questions will test your ability to express ideas effectively in standard-written English, to recognize faults in usage and structure, and to use language with sensitivity to meaning. (Note that essay writing is not included)
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