Parents Guide to PSAT 10

The PSAT 10 is one of four tests in the SAT Suite of Assessments—all of which test students on the knowledge and skills they need for college.

The PSAT 10 is the same as the PSAT/NMSQT in terms of subject matter and difficulty, but it’s different from the PSAT/NMSQT in two ways:

• Students take it in the spring of 10th grade, instead of the fall of 10th or 11th grade.
• It doesn't qualify students for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Fast Facts

• 2023 PSAT 10 dates: Feb. 21–March 24; April 12–28.
• The PSAT 10 and the PSAT/NMSQT both have a score range of 320–1520. Learn more about PSAT 10 scores.
• PSAT 10 scores are available about 6–8 weeks after students take the test.
• All four tests in the SAT Suite of Assessments measure the same knowledge and skills students need for college in ways that make sense for each grade level. Read more about the SAT Suite.
• The PSAT 10 consists of three parts: the Reading Test, the Writing and Language Test, and the Math Test. Take a look inside the PSAT 10.
• PSAT 10 testing accommodations are available for students with disabilities. See how to request accommodations for your child.
• Taking the PSAT 10 doesn't qualify students for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
• Some schools charge students a fee to take the PSAT 10, but many don't. There are no PSAT 10 fee waivers.

Reasons to Take the PSAT 10

If your child is in 10th grade, they can benefit from taking the PSAT 10 in several ways.

• It identifies their academic strengths and weaknesses early in high school, when there's plenty of time to improve before college.
• It lets them know which Advanced Placement (AP) courses they're most likely to do well in.
• It's a great way to practice for the PSAT/NMSQT in 11th grade, which qualifies them for the National Merit Scholarship Program and a chance to win recognition and money for college.
• When they take the PSAT 10, your child can opt in to Student Search Service and connect to over $300 million in scholarships. Learn more about scholarships.
• It's a great way to practice for the SAT, a test that's an important part of college applications.
• Your child can use their PSAT 10 score to get a free, personalized SAT practice plan through Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy^®.

Read More About It
Learn About the PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10.

How to Practice for the PSAT 10

Because the PSAT 10 focuses on the knowledge and skills your child is learning in school, the best way to prepare for the test is to take challenging courses, pay attention in class, and do their homework.

Another great way to practice for the PSAT 10 is with Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy. It's free, it's online, and it gives your child a personalized practice plan based on their previous test scores or their performance on short quizzes offered on the site.

Read More About It
PSAT 10 Practice Tests

Frequently Asked Questions