What is the PSAT test?

The Preliminary SAT, known as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, is a standardized, predominately multiple-choice test of students in the United States to measure academic aptitude. The PSAT/NMSQT has three sections: math, critical reading and writing skills. Scores are calculated based on a maximum score of 240.

The College Board, a private testing and education company, and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation create and administer the PSAT/NMSQT, along with the SAT, which is used to determine college eligibility. The PSAT/NMSQT is used to determine eligibility for programs such as National Merit Scholarships and Advanced Placement as well as to prepare students for the SAT.