Overview

Educators need to know if students are on track for being college ready as early as possible. Since the PSAT is traditionally taken either in 10th or 11th grade, it is an earlier indicator than tests like the SAT or ACT. The PSAT is not only a practice exam for the SAT, but also a way for students to qualify for merit-based scholarships. Educators can use PSAT metrics to catch students who have not taken any of these exams and also to challenge students to meet their full potential.

PSAT metrics also allow educators to easily identify students who require support in either completing or performing well on a college admission test, a prerequisite for acceptance to most colleges and universities. Any student who has not taken the test, but is eligible based on grade level, can be identified. Additionally, students who have scored above the 80th percentile on the PSAT should be flagged as having advanced course potential. Having access to this information early allows educators to ensure that all students will be able to take the SAT or ACT and perform well. 

The metric also allows educators to quickly identify students who have taken the test, but have not scored at or above the specified state criterion. For these students, educators can review detailed information regarding the student’s performance in each subject area of the test in order to provide appropriate and prompt academic support.   

Ideally, educators and counselors should review PSAT metrics as soon as results are in.

PSAT Metrics