Start PSAT Prep with Confidence

What Students and Parents Should Know About the PSAT/NMSQT

Key Updates to the PSAT/NMSQT (Fall 2023 Onward)

What Students and Parents Should Know About the New Digital PSAT

In Fall 2023, the College Board introduced a fully digital version of the PSAT/NMSQT, aligning it with the updated SAT format. This digital transition marks the most significant change in the exam’s history—offering a shorter, adaptive test designed to better reflect students’ academic skills and readiness for college-level work.

Whether you're an 11th grader aiming for National Merit recognition or a 10th grader getting early SAT exposure, understanding these updates is key to effective preparation.

One important update: Like the SAT, the PSAT/NMSQT no longer includes an essay component. Writing skills are now evaluated through grammar and reading comprehension questions in the Reading & Writing section.

PSAT/NMSQT Test Format (Digital as of Fall 2023)

The PSAT/NMSQT is now a fully digital exam, mirroring the new SAT structure. As of fall 2023, the PSAT/NMSQT includes two main sections—Reading & Writing and Math—with adaptive modules that adjust to a student’s performance. Understanding the format helps students build the right test-day strategy:

Reading & Writing Section

• 54 multiple-choice questions

• 64 minutes total

• 2 adaptive modules (27 questions each)

• Short passages (1 per question, 25–150 words)

• Tests grammar, vocabulary in context, and reading comprehension

Math Section

• 44 multiple-choice questions

• 70 minutes total

• 2 adaptive modules (22 questions each)

• Includes algebra, geometry, data analysis, and problem-solving

• Calculator allowed throughout the section

Additional Notes

• Total Test Time: Approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes

• Includes one 10-minute break between sections

• No essay component

• No penalty for incorrect answers

• Test is fully digital and section-adaptive

• Scores help qualify students for the National Merit Scholarship Program

Tips for Students

How to Prepare for the Digital PSAT

The digital PSAT isn’t just a practice SAT — it’s a gateway to scholarships and a chance to build early momentum for college admissions. Smart preparation is about strategy as much as content. Here’s how students can set themselves up for success:

Strategic Test-Day Advice

• Treat the PSAT like the real thing. This is your first official exposure to the new SAT format — your approach and habits now will impact future performance.

• Focus heavily on the first module. Because the test is adaptive, early accuracy leads to more high-value questions (and a higher potential score).

• Answer every question. There’s no guessing penalty, so leave nothing blank. Eliminate wrong choices quickly and make your best guess.

• Manage your time with intent. Even though the test is shorter, the pacing is tight — don’t get stuck on any one question.

• Take full-length practice tests. Simulating the real test experience builds confidence, endurance, and familiarity with the digital tools.

Smart Digital Test Strategies

• Practice with the Bluebook™ app. Get comfortable with the digital interface, on-screen calculator, flagging questions, and built-in tools.

• Use the on-screen tools wisely. Highlight key phrases, eliminate answers, and zoom in if needed — don’t ignore the digital resources.

• Stay calm with tech. The test is user-friendly, and you'll have access to scratch paper. Focus on strategy, not screen stress.

Long-Term Impact

• High PSAT scores can lead to National Merit recognition, which opens doors to scholarships and top-tier schools.

• Your PSAT results provide a roadmap. Use your score report to identify strengths and target growth areas before taking the SAT.

Students who start early — and prepare with real digital tools — gain a measurable advantage when it’s time for the SAT and college applications.

Test Dates and Registration Deadlines

When to Take the PSAT/NMSQT

The PSAT/NMSQT is offered once a year in October, typically during a school day. Registration is coordinated through high schools, not the College Board directly. Students should check with their school counselors for exact dates and sign-up procedures.

• View PSAT/NMSQT Dates and Info →

Note: Only 11th grade students are eligible for National Merit Scholarship recognition. However, 10th grade students can use the PSAT as early SAT preparation.