PSAT vs. SAT® Test: 7 Differences to Consider

Standardized test names are like alphabet soup. You have the PSAT, the SAT®, and the ACT® tests, all offered in high school. The acronyms all stand for something, and it can be easy to confuse them because of their similar names.

Knowing what to expect, why to sign up for each test, and how each test is different can help you better prepare for these steps in your journey to college.

Both the PSAT and SAT tests are part of the SAT suite of assessments, offered by the College Board®. These tests follow a similar format, and taking one test may help you prepare for the other.

However, no two tests are exactly the same. There are some fundamental differences between the tests that you should consider. In this post, we go over the 8 key differences between the PSAT and SAT tests.

If you’re looking for a comparison of the ACT and SAT tests, read “Differences Between the ACT and SAT Tests.”

PSAT vs. SAT Test: 7 Key Differences to Consider

1. The “Why?”

Why take the SAT test?

The SAT test is a college entrance exam, and colleges often require SAT scores as part of your application to college. The letters “SAT” stand for “Scholastic Assessment Test.”

Nearly all U.S. colleges and several international schools accept scores from the SAT test. Colleges use SAT test scores when determining which students to accept and which to deny, and a good SAT score can help you build a strong college application.

In 2020, many schools moved to “test optional” admissions, meaning some college applications do not require test scores for admission. However, many schools will still consider test scores to qualify students for more selective aspects of the admissions process, such as scholarships, competitive degree programs, and acceptance into the honors college. This means a strong SAT score can still help you.

Why take the PSAT test?

There are three versions of the PSAT test that are offered at different grade levels: the PSAT/NMSQT®, the PSAT 10, and the PSAT 8/9. The letters “PSAT” stand for “Preliminary SAT.” Each version of the test plays a different role in your journey to college.

PSAT/NMSQT

Students take the PSAT/NMSQT in October of 11th grade, but this year actual test days will vary due to the conversion to a digital testing form. Contact your school to find out the exact date of the test.

The “NMSQT” stands for “National Merit® Scholarship Qualifying Test.” Scores from this test are used to qualify students for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Students who score in the top 0.5% of each state will become National Merit Semifinalists, advancing them to the next level of the competition.

Students who reach Finalist status may qualify for a number of scholarships sponsored by scholarship organizations, corporations, and colleges throughout the United States. For example, National Merit Scholars can attend the University of Texas at Dallas tuition-free, plus additional stipends to cover other costs of attendance.

Please note that the PSAT test is not a college admissions test. While receiving an honor like National Merit Semifinalist may be appropriate to highlight in your application, colleges do not ask for PSAT score reports.

Some high schools will give the same PSAT/NMSQT test to 10th graders as practice. For instance, many schools in the Dallas-Fort Worth area will do this instead of the PSAT 10. Keep in mind that only 11th grade scores will go toward the National Merit Scholarship Program.

PSAT 10

This version of the PSAT is very similar to the PSAT/NMSQT test except that students take it in the spring of 10th grade. However, scores from this test do not qualify students for National Merit.

We recommend that students take the PSAT 10 as practice for the 11th grade test. This version of the test helps students become familiar with the content found on the test, and students take the test in a similar environment.

PSAT 8/9

This is a slightly shorter version of the PSAT test offered to students in 8th and 9th grade. This is a student’s first opportunity to take the PSAT test. National Merit does not review test scores on the PSAT 8/9.

We often recommend the PSAT 8/9 to advanced students who are ready to try the test out. Remember, this test will likely cover material that the student has yet to learn in high school, so it’s important to understand that there will be plenty of time for improvement.

2. When You Should Take Them

The PSAT and the SAT test are offered at different times throughout the year. While the SAT test is offered on multiple dates throughout the spring, summer, and fall, the PSAT test is only offered once per year depending on your grade level.

When should I take the SAT test?

We recommend that students finish testing by the end of their junior year of high school so that they can shift focus to college applications. Keep in mind that it may take multiple attempts to reach your target score, so you should plan to take the test more than once.

However, we do understand that every student is unique and should create a testing plan according to his or her specific needs.

For example, if you have a busy sports season coming up, you may choose to take the test at a later date. And that’s okay! Just be aware that college applications and essay writing can take a lot of time, and you should plan ahead to put your best foot forward.

When should I take the PSAT test?

As explained above, there are different versions of the PSAT test offered depending on your grade level. National Merit will only consider scores from the 11th grade test, offered once per year in October. 12th graders do not get the opportunity to take the test.

3. Length of Time and Number of Questions

In previous years, the SAT test was longer with more questions. As of the Fall of 2023, the PSAT test is the only one that will be taken digitally, although the SAT test will move to a digital format in Spring 2024.

Paper-Based SAT Test Section Breakdown:

Reading: 65 minutes, 52 questions
Writing and Language: 35 minutes, 44 questions
Math with No Calculator: 25 minutes, 20 questions
Math with Calculator: 55 minutes, 38 questions
Optional Essay: 50 minutes, 1 question
Total: 180 minutes, 154 questions

Digital PSAT and SAT Test Breakdown:

Reading: 32 minutes, 27 questions
Writing: 32 minutes, 27 questions
Math: 70 minutes, 44 questions
Total: 134 minutes, 98 questions

4. Retake Options: More Opportunities to Retake the SAT Test

There are no retake options for the 11th grade PSAT/NMSQT test.

You have one shot at earning a score that will qualify you as a National Merit Semifinalist.

This differs from the SAT test, which is offered several times throughout the year and can be retaken as many times as desired.

While there are no retake options for the 11th grade PSAT/NMSQT test, you can take the PSAT 8/9 and PSAT 10 tests as practice for the 11th grade test.

On the SAT test, you’ll have plenty of time to retake the test to improve your score if you start testing early. If you wait too long, you may miss out on retaking the test and improving your test score.

Colleges will not penalize you for taking the test multiple times. They will evaluate your score based off of your “superscore” (taking the highest results for each section) or your highest single test results.

Colleges have certain deadlines to turn your test scores in, and you may miss your window if you wait to take the test for the first time in 12th grade.

5. Score Reporting: Different Score Ranges

College Board grades the SAT and the PSAT tests using different scoring scales.

SAT test scores range from 400 to 1600 points, whereas the PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10 scores range from 320 to 1520 points.

PSAT 8/9 scores range from 240 to 1440 points.

6. Level of Difficulty: Is the SAT test harder than the PSAT test?

The PSAT test is slightly easier than the SAT test.

The PSAT test is meant to serve as practice for the SAT test. When you break down how much time you have per question for each section of the tests, you’ll notice that you have a little more time to answer math questions on the PSAT test than you do on the SAT test.

Since the PSAT test is shorter overall and consists of less questions, your mind may be under less pressure than when taking the SAT test.

When taking the PSAT test in 10th grade, some students feel like the test is pretty difficult because it may cover material they haven’t yet learned in high school. Alternatively, the SAT test is often taken in the 11th grade; so students have had more time to learn concepts and prepare, leading to an easier experience overall.

The bottom line is the difference in level of difficulty is minimal and depends on your grade level and testing experience. Taking either test will help you prepare for the other.

SAT Test Sections – Time Per Question

Reading: 1 minute 15 seconds per question
Writing and Language: 47 seconds per question
Math with No Calculator: 1 minute 15 seconds per question
Math with Calculator: 1 minute 26 seconds per question
Optional Essay: 50 minutes to answer one question

PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10 Test Sections – Time Per Question

Reading: 1 minute 15 seconds per question
Writing and Language: 47 seconds per question
Math with No Calculator: 1 minute 28 seconds per question
Math with Calculator: 1 minute 27 seconds per question

PSAT 8/9 Test Sections – Time Per Question

Reading: 1 minute 18 seconds per question
Writing and Language: 1 minute 15 seconds per question
Math: 1 minute 34 seconds per question

7. How You Sign Up

Each test involves a different process in terms of signing up and payment.

How to sign up for the SAT test

Students can register for the SAT test by setting up an account on the College Board website. In some cases, students have to register by mail.

The SAT test currently costs $52 ($68 for the test with the essay). There are fee waivers for students in specific situations. See the College Board website for more information.

How to sign up for the PSAT test

To register for the PSAT test, students should contact their high school counselor. They will help you sign up for the upcoming tests. If you are homeschooled or your school does not offer the PSAT test, you will need to arrange to test at another high school.

The standard cost for the PSAT test is $17, but fees for the PSAT test vary from school to school. Some high schools do not charge students to take the test.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, the PSAT and SAT tests are very similar in terms of content, but there are some key differences that students should know before signing up.

We recommend that students take both tests in order to maximize their scholarship opportunities and strengthen their college applications.

Need help preparing for upcoming tests?

At KD College Prep, we offer in-person and online test prep programs for students in grades 7-12. We have nearly 30 years experience preparing students for college admissions tests.

If you need help creating a testing plan or advice on which tests to take, contact us to set up a free consultation with one of our advisors.

WE’RE ALWAYS READY TO CHAT

Reach out to schedule your free consultation today.

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Gloria D. – Daughter, Class of 2021

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Kareena A. – Class of 2021

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Advika R. – Class of 2022

“I shifted toward taking practice tests and going to workshops because I felt those were the best ways to apply the concepts (I was) learning in class. I started applying the tips and tricks that the teachers were showing me in class. In conjunction, those two things helped me raise my score a lot because I was not a math kid before KD or high school. The repetition and being able to practice in a non-stressful environment and simulating that testing experience is something that was very beneficial for me... “The college counseling team was super patient and honest about the work I was submitting. I know for a lot of kids, it’s hard to articulate who you are through 250-300 words. It was definitely... Read more...

“I shifted toward taking practice tests and going to workshops because I felt those were the best ways to apply the concepts (I was) learning in class. I started applying the tips and tricks that the teachers were showing me in... Read more...

Blaine W. – Class of 2021

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Julio M. – Parent

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Beth L. – Advanced Start™ Parent

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“I wanted to say thank you to all of the teachers and directors at KD for helping me get a great score on the SAT^® test. I started with a 1250 on the first KD test I took, and I got... Read more...

Vyom S. – Class of 2022

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Jerry – Sons, Class of 2022

“I'm writing to thank the KD team for all the help and guidance over the last couple of years! All the resources provided were very useful to me and helped me achieve the scores I was aiming for on the PSAT, SAT^®, and ACT^® tests (1520, 1580, and 34). I really appreciate everyone's willingness to be flexible and accommodate my requests!”

“I'm writing to thank the KD team for all the help and guidance over the last couple of years! All the resources provided were very useful to me and helped me achieve the scores I was aiming for on the PSAT,... Read more...

Mithra A. – Class of 2022

"The resources that KD offers have greatly prepared me for the college admissions process. Without KD, I would not have been this prepared and confident... I am a rising senior, and I ended up receiving a 1570 on my SAT^® test (third time) and a 35 on my ACT® test (first time). I remember the first ever practice test I took for the SAT test was a 1230 (about 1.5 yrs ago) and the first ever practice test I took for the ACT test was a 31 or 32 (about 6 months ago)."

"The resources that KD offers have greatly prepared me for the college admissions process. Without KD, I would not have been this prepared and confident... I am a rising senior, and I ended up receiving a 1570 on my SAT^® test... Read more...

Elise P. – Class of 2022

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping both of my kids over the last years reach successful outcomes on their SAT^® and ACT^® scores, which helped them get into great colleges. I found the college prep class for parents very informative and helpful during the process as well. My son (Jacob) graduated in 2018 and got a 32 on the ACT test. got accepted into Texas A&M but chose Baylor for Health Sciences. My daughter (Morgan) graduated in 2020 and got a 1450 on the SAT test and a 32 on the ACT test. got into an Ivy League school (Cornell) for Engineering. Both my kids say that they apply the test taking skills they learned at KD Prep to... Read more...

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping both of my kids over the last years reach successful outcomes on their SAT^® and ACT^® scores, which helped them get into great colleges. I found the college prep class for parents... Read more...

Jon D. – Parent

“Coming into this whole process, I had absolutely no idea what anything was, and your help was invaluable—your encouraging words, strategic advice, and wholesome stories and jokes really got me through a stressful time! I'm still on the waitlist at Harvard and other schools, but I've really started to immerse into the Emory culture, especially their debate team. Not having to pay for college and still attend a private institution is really a dream come true, and it wouldn't be possible if it were not for you.”

“Coming into this whole process, I had absolutely no idea what anything was, and your help was invaluable—your encouraging words, strategic advice, and wholesome stories and jokes really got me through a stressful time! I'm still on the waitlist at Harvard... Read more...

Shreyas R. – Class of 2020

“The most beneficial guidance I received during my College Counseling experience was being taught that it's completely ok to not know what I want to do with the rest of my life at 17/18 years old. Steve told me that a good school will help me find my path. Also, Steve's knowledge about what colleges were wanting to see in potential admissions candidates was a huge help... “There was not one specific beneficial moment or turning point in my time working with Steve, there were many. He encouraged me during the entire application process and brought to my attention many colleges I wouldn't have considered or heard about without his help.”

“The most beneficial guidance I received during my College Counseling experience was being taught that it's completely ok to not know what I want to do with the rest of my life at 17/18 years old. Steve told me that a... Read more...

Jake W. – Class of 2020

"I'm very happy my daughter chose KD as her learning partner to achieve her goals. All the experiences with KD and the Directors there are fabulous. My daughter has improved significantly."

Zarni, Daughter – Class of 2021

"I took KD classes the summer before my junior year, and I was finished with my SAT^® test by December...The test prep classes also helped me earn the award of National Merit^® Finalist."

Claire I. – Class of 2020

"It's been super helpful, and I've noticed my scores go up both on my SAT^®/ACT^® scores as well as test scores in school... Overall, I believe this to be the best college prep that money can buy."

Gopi C. – Class of 2021

"KD helped me come up with a game plan for the colleges I wanted to attend, as well as any backups, and how to manage my time during this stressful period. They helped to ease the stress and made sure that I would be successful in whichever college I picked, and I am eternally grateful for all their help and hard work!"

"KD helped me come up with a game plan for the colleges I wanted to attend, as well as any backups, and how to manage my time during this stressful period. They helped to ease the stress and made... Read more...

Omar S. – Class of 2020

"My initial goals when I first started working with the KD Counseling crew was to compile a list of colleges that I would be somewhat interested in attending and fit my career goals. I think that this step I was by far the most concerned about. I didn’t know how exactly I should go about choosing which places to apply to and if I were to be accepted, if they would fit me. The team did a wonderful job considering my likes and dislikes and helped me compile a list of colleges that suited my tastes and would further my academic career. "After this integral first step, my focus turned towards time management and writing quality essays that would stand out to colleges. I got... Read more...

"My initial goals when I first started working with the KD Counseling crew was to compile a list of colleges that I would be somewhat interested in attending and fit my career goals. I think that this step I was by... Read more...

Nina H. – Class of 2020

"I was thankful for all the help I received from KD in preparing for my SAT^® and ACT^® exams. The workshops they offered, as well as the practice exams, gave me the tools I needed to do my very best."

Morgan D. – Class of 2020

"KDCP is a must for students wanting to stay a step ahead of the game for getting into college. My son has gained huge insight from the ACT^®/SAT^® practice workshops, practice tests, and essay class."

Tiffany – Son, Class of 2021

"KD helped to increase the efficiencies of how I took the national exams. I was also able to implement these efficiencies in my daily school studies within the IB program at PESH. I would (and have) recommend KD to those students wanting an edge on their national test scores!"

"KD helped to increase the efficiencies of how I took the national exams. I was also able to implement these efficiencies in my daily school studies within the IB program at PESH. I would (and have) recommend KD to those students... Read more...

Daniel J. – Class of 2020

"Not only have I been able to significantly improve my test scores, I have learned a tremendous amount of information about the college application process due to complimentary events that KD offers."

Sam H. – Class of 2020

"I came to KD the summer before my senior year with only my determination and big goals! KD provided me with the resources necessary to improve my test score to increase my chances at my dream school, Notre Dame, with the help from amazing teachers and staff. I am so grateful for KD!"

"I came to KD the summer before my senior year with only my determination and big goals! KD provided me with the resources necessary to improve my test score to increase my chances at my dream school, Notre Dame, with the... Read more...

Matt K. – Class of 2020

"I started classes at KD the summer before 9th grade. I...made a perfect score on the PSAT (earning the National Merit^® scholarship) and, after taking the SAT^® test only once (a relief!), scored a 1590/1600."

Thomas D. – Class of 2019

"In just one year, I was able to raise my score by 300 points and get into my dream school."

Piper F. – Class of 2020

"Having our recent GHS graduate attend KD was life changing. It provided our son with choices and opportunities that he might not have had otherwise."

Kathy – Son attends Mizzou

“I came to KD College Prep after already using another tutoring service which we were not seeing results with. Due to time constraints, the traditional classes were not going to be feasible for my daughter. They took the time to figure out a personal plan that would work for her and were always available for our questions and helping her reach her goals. Every employee from the managers to the students working at their locations are top notch.”

“I came to KD College Prep after already using another tutoring service which we were not seeing results with. Due to time constraints, the traditional classes were not going to be feasible for my daughter. They took the time to figure... Read more...

Tracy – Daughter, Class of 2020

"The KD College Prep course not only provided test practice but also motivated her to work hard for her college applications. It gave her the confidence to dream big!"

Prema – Daughter attends Rice

Difference Between the PSAT and SAT® Tests