PSAT vs SAT: What's the difference?

    The PSAT is a shorter, slightly easier practice version of the SAT used for the National Merit Scholarship. It uses the same digital format but tops out at 1520, not 1600.

    Format overlap

    Both tests are now digital, adaptive, and delivered through Bluebook. They test the same skills in the same question types.

    Key differences

    The PSAT is a shorter, less-high-stakes version of the SAT.

    • PSAT max score: 1520. SAT max score: 1600.
    • PSAT testing time: ~2 hours 14 minutes. SAT: same.
    • PSAT is used for National Merit; SAT is used for college admissions.
    • PSAT is typically taken in 10th or 11th grade; SAT is most often taken in 11th and 12th grade.

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