SAT Suite

4 Ways to Make the Most of Your PSAT 8/9 and PSAT 10 Scores

This spring, students like you across the country took the PSAT 10 and PSAT 8/9. You worked hard in school and took the test. You waited anxiously to see how you did—but now what? You may not realize the importance of your PSAT 10 or PSAT 8/9 scores. Keep reading to learn what these scores can do for you as you plan for college, career, and beyond.

girl taking test at desk in classroom

PSAT 10 and PSAT 8/9 Score Release

One of the first steps is to view your scores and understand what they mean. Your spring scores are released on a rolling basis depending on when you took the test. If you’re 13 and older, you can create an account and view your scores in the College Board’s student score portal.

Your score report shows you your score ranges, average scores, college readiness benchmarks, and percentile ranks. These results highlight where you’re doing well and where you might need to do more work.

Learn more about how your scores are calculated and what they mean:

1. Improving Your Skills and Finding New Classes to Take

High school courses can be challenging—but taking classes you excel at in subjects that interest you is rewarding and can improve your grades and chances of getting into your dream college. Your PSAT 10 and PSAT 8/9 scores can tell you what subjects and skills you excel in, and which you need to work on—so you can make smart decisions about which classes to take in high school.

2. Get Matched to AP Courses

Your PSAT 10 or PSAT 8/9 score report will list recommended AP courses based on which topics you did well on. AP courses are a great way to prepare for college and help you stand out when you’re applying. And, you can get college credit for AP classes, which saves you money on tuition. Discover your AP potential, then talk to a teacher or counselor and decide which courses are right for you.

3. Learn About Scholarship Opportunities

Did you know when you take the PSAT 10 and say “yes” to Student Search Service®, you’re connected with scholarship programs? See available scholarships and how their providers use the PSAT 10 to find students like you. The PSAT 10 connects students to over $235 million in scholarship funds nationwide, so opt in to Student Search Service and take advantage of the opportunities out there for you.

4. Get Free SAT Practice

Want to improve your skills as you continue in high school and get ready for the SAT? Use your PSAT 10 or PSAT 8/9 scores to get a free, personalized SAT practice plan on Official SAT Practice from Khan Academy. Import your scores to Official SAT Practice, then print full tests or practice online—either way, you’re focused on the areas you need to work on to get your best scores.

So view your scores and use the great tools at your fingertips to make them work for you—and take the next step on your journey to college and your future.