Important PSAT Information

Thu, 10/07/2021 - 12:54pm

All 9th, 10th, and 11th-grade students will be participating in the administration of the PSAT on Wednesday, October 13.

The PSATs will take place on Wednesday, October 13th, beginning at 7:25 am.  All 9th-grade students will participate in the PSAT 8/9 while 10th and 11th-grade students will participate in the PSAT/NMSQT.  The test will only be offered once and there is no make-up date for students who are late or absent from school.

  • All students have been pre-registered.
  • Students should look at posted lists outside the cafeteria and media center prior to Wednesday to find their testing location. Students may also reference the listing on Canvas announcements. Staff members will also have lists and can help students find their testing locations.
  • Please bring a scientific calculator to use for the test. View here for approved calculators.
  • Cell phones, Smart watches, earbuds, Bluetooth devices, iPads, laptops, etc. should be left at home or off and put away in a backpack, which will be moved to the front of the classroom.

What Will Seniors do on PSAT Day?

  • Seniors are encouraged to choose one of the following activities:
  • Use the day to visit colleges with family or work on college applications and essays at home.  Families may use one of their discretionary leave days (please send a note in with your student).
  • Seniors who do come to school on October 13 will go to the cafeteria to work on college applications and essays, with teacher support during the morning testing session for 9th-11th graders.
  • Seniors who attend ARL are expected to attend ARL classes on October 13th.
  • Howard Community College is hosting a Senior Summit for all seniors on PSAT day from 11AM to 1:30PM. This is a great time to check out HCC’s campus! Students will be able to attend one of 5 workshops along with having the opportunity to enjoy free pizza with faculty, play games on the quad, and enjoy a table fair to learn more about college pathways and resources! Students can RSVP HERE

What are the advantages of PSAT participation and results:

  • The PSAT helps students prepare for the SAT. Students can become familiar with test format and test question types. Also, student scores predict SAT performance and can help with choices about further student preparation.
  • The PSAT registration also allows qualifying participants to be entered into scholarship and recognition programs (grades 10-11).
  • The PSAT is an introduction to many of the requirements for college and career-readiness.
  • Students will begin to receive information from colleges and universities as they explore their options.
  • Student performance will help to identify needed skill development and areas for improvement.

Students:  Please remember to get a good night's sleep, eat a balanced breakfast, and report to school on time. Also, students should remember a calculator for use during the test!

Please contact Kelly Hearns, Assistant Principal with questions about the PSAT.  

Additional Note for Students with Testing Accommodations:

Some students receive testing accommodations at the high school due to a disability documented through a 504 Plan or IEP.  These accommodations do not automatically apply to the PSAT or SAT. All accommodations must be approved by College Board. It is often recommended for students to take the PSAT without accommodations.  This helps students and their parents to determine if the accommodations will be beneficial on the actual SAT.  Please speak with your guidance counselor and/or case manager for additional information on the application/approval process.