PSAT Calculator
Calculate your estimated PSAT score and check your National Merit Scholarship eligibility. The PSAT is scored from 320-1520, with Selection Index scores used to determine National Merit Semifinalist status.
Reading Test: 47 questions in 60 minutes
Writing and Language Test: 44 questions in 35 minutes
Math Test - No Calculator: 17 questions in 25 minutes
Math Test - Calculator: 31 questions in 45 minutes
How is the PSAT scored?
The PSAT is scored from 320-1520 (lower than SAT's 400-1600). It has two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW, 160-760) and Math (160-760). Your raw scores (correct answers) are converted to scaled scores. The Selection Index (48-228) is used for National Merit Scholarships.
What is the Selection Index for National Merit?
Selection Index = (Reading scaled score + Writing scaled score + Math scaled score). Ranges from 48-228. National Merit Semifinalist cutoffs vary by state, typically 209-224. Top 1% of test-takers become Semifinalists. Commended Students (top 3-4%) typically score 207+. Only juniors (11th grade) qualify for National Merit.
What is a good PSAT score?
Average PSAT score: ~920. Good scores: 1000+ (above average), 1150+ (competitive), 1300+ (excellent). For National Merit: 1400-1480+ needed (varies by state). Percentiles: 1200 = 75th percentile, 1300 = 87th, 1400 = 97th. Compare to SAT: PSAT 1300 ≈ SAT 1350-1400.
Is there a penalty for wrong answers on the PSAT?
No guessing penalty! You only earn points for correct answers and lose nothing for wrong or blank answers. Always guess if you don't know an answer. Omitting questions doesn't help your score. The PSAT scoring is identical to SAT scoring in this regard.
When should I take the PSAT?
PSAT/NMSQT: Taken in October of 10th and 11th grade. Only 11th grade scores count for National Merit Scholarships. PSAT 8/9: For 8th-9th graders (practice only). Take it seriously in 11th grade—it's your only chance for National Merit. Use 10th grade as practice.
How does the PSAT compare to the SAT?
Same format and question types, but PSAT is slightly shorter and easier. PSAT: 2 hours 45 minutes, 139 questions, scored 320-1520. SAT: 3 hours, 154 questions, scored 400-1600. PSAT Math has 48 questions vs SAT's 58. PSAT is good SAT practice. Many students score 50-100 points higher on SAT.
What National Merit cutoff score do I need for my state?
Cutoffs vary by state (209-224 Selection Index). Competitive states: CA, MA, NJ (221-224). Lower cutoffs: WV, ND, WY (209-212). Most states: 215-220. Cutoffs change yearly based on state performance. Check previous years' cutoffs for your state. Top 1% in each state qualify as Semifinalists.