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PSAT/NMSQT
Information adapted from Gruber's Complete PSAT/NMSQT Guide 2012.
Test Information
The PSAT/NMSQT measures critical reading, math, and writing. All of the questions are multiple choice except the 10 grid-ins (student-produced responses) for the math section.
Most students take the PSAT/NMSQT during the fall of their junior year, but you can take the PSAT whenever you want.
You can use a scientific, graphing, or four-function calculator on the math sections only. Check out the College Board's website for the complete list of calculator guidelines for the PSAT/NMSQT.
Scoring Information
Every PSAT question has the same point value. You will receive a scaled score between 20 and 80 for each section, with a score of 50 considered average.
Total Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes, no breaks
Section |
Time |
Types of Questions |
|
Critical Reading (2 sections) |
Two 25-minute sections |
Sentence completion—13 questions Reading passages—35 questions |
|
Writing (1 section) |
One 30-minute section |
Identifying sentence errors—14 questions Improving sentences—20 questions Improving paragraphs—5 questions |
|
Math (2 sections) |
Two 25-minute sections |
Regular math—28 multiple-choice questions Grid-ins (student-produced responses)—10 grid-in questions |
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