Prep for the PSAT Test

When determining the best test prep program for a student, there are four main things to consider: grade level, learning preferences, schedule/availability, and score goals. Each of these variables will vary from student to student, but our experienced team of advisors is available to discuss your student’s needs and identify a program that will work best.

KD’s signature test prep option is the Complete™ Program for 9th-12th grade. This program gives students access to our proprietary curriculum, flexible class schedules, the KD Student Portal, and numerous ongoing activities. With this option, we don’t charge an annual fee—you pay once to prep until high school graduation, if needed.

For some busy students, it isn’t feasible to travel to a KD campus to complete test prep activities. Fortunately, KD offers flexible online learning options for students who prefer to prep at home. This includes live-online classes, self-paced activities, practice tests with reviews, and more available in the KD Student Portal. Complete™ Program students have access to all of these online resources, in addition to printed curriculum books.

Great PSAT test scores can open doors to scholarships and national recognition. Plus, taking it is great practice for the SAT test. Over the years, KD has provided thousands of students with the resources they need to work toward National Merit® Semifinalist status. Read on to find out how our test prep programs helped students reach their score goals.

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping me get the score I needed to receive over $464,000 in scholarships, including two full rides. I started the program the summer going into my junior year. I had an excellent GPA but struggled on standardized tests. Taking the test prep classes throughout junior year and taking practice tests got me more prepared each time I took the test. I achieved my best score the summer going into my senior year. That score allowed me to apply to my top schools as soon as early decision opened. I am so grateful to Karen Dillard and the extra practice and proctored exams! My parents are grateful too—for the small investment they got a great return.” Saadia P. – 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!” Mithra A. – Class of 2022

“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

The best time to take the PSAT test is in October of 11th grade. While some school districts offer a version of the PSAT test starting in 8th or 9th grade, only the 11th grade test counts toward National Merit Semifinalist consideration.
Preparation for the PSAT test can begin as early as 9th grade, although some high-performing students are ready to begin in 7th or 8th grade. With the Complete™ Program, there is no annual fee. KD works with students until they achieve their testing goals or until high school graduation.

You may have heard that the PSAT test will be offered for the first time in a digital format in the fall of 2023. This will involve a complete revamp of test sections, so it’s important to keep this in mind as you start your preparation. Read more about the PSAT and SAT tests going digital.

Yes, but it can be a lot of work to plan your own study material. KD’s test prep classes can eliminate stress, introduce helpful strategies, and may lead to higher scores. With the Complete Program, we simplify the learning process and give students a clear path to follow. Students who can put in the work and follow recommendations benefit most from this level of guidance and structure throughout the testing process.

A student’s level of improvement really does depend on the starting score and the amount of time dedicated to prep. Consistency can also play an important role. By attending activities on a regular basis, our students typically report seeing a 100-400 point increase. Keep in mind that participation is necessary. Students who start early and follow a consistent prep schedule are the ones who see the best results.

The answer varies depending on how many weeks until the test and how busy you are during that time frame. Some students can dedicate time daily throughout the school year to focus on prep. However, many students find time on the weekends, during summer break, or during the off-season for extracurriculars like sports and band. The amount of time a student can dedicate to prep will have a direct impact on reaching his or her score goals.

We recommend planning ahead, and KD’s flexible class schedules and various prep options can help students find the time. Schedule a free consultation to discuss recommendations that are specific to you and your goals.

A perfect score on the PSAT test is a 1520, but you don’t need a perfect score to qualify as a National Merit Semifinalist. However, you will need to score in the top ½ percent of 11th grade test-takers in your state, if this is your goal. Read more about PSAT score ranges.

If you don’t plan on becoming a National Merit Semifinalist, we still recommend that you take the PSAT test simply because it’s great practice for the SAT test. PSAT scores can be a great predictor for how you’ll score on the SAT test.

If you only spend one month preparing for the PSAT test, you probably won’t see a drastic improvement on the PSAT test. College prep is a balancing act, but students who are willing to get a head start on the testing process typically see the best results.

Even so, it’s important to remember that your testing journey should not end with the PSAT test. The SAT and ACT tests will soon follow. Maybe you’re getting a late start with the PSAT test, but there’s still time to work toward your score goals for college admissions. Many KD students choose to start their prep journey in the 11th grade and are still able to reach their target scores. Try to start preparing as soon as possible.