PSAT / PSAT-NMSQT / SAT / ACT

The ACT and all versions of the SAT are nationally administered standardized tests. As of 2025, some colleges have a test-optional policy, but most still require high school students to submit either SAT or ACT scores with their college applications. Both exams include Reading, Writing, and Math sections, though they vary slightly in difficulty.

Different Versions of the SAT

The SAT has multiple versions designed to help students become familiar with the test and build a strong foundation for college readiness. The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) serves as a preparatory version of the SAT.

PSAT Versions:

PSAT 8/9 – Taken by students in 8th and 9th grade.
PSAT 10 – Administered in 10th grade.
PSAT-NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) – Given in 11th grade.

The testing dates for these versions are determined by individual schools, with most exams taking place in October. Students should check their school’s website for district-specific dates.

PSAT-NMSQT: The Scholarship Opportunity

Unlike the PSAT 8/9 and PSAT 10, the PSAT-NMSQT holds greater significance, as it serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Students who achieve top scores may earn scholarship opportunities.

Key Facts About PSAT-NMSQT:

Administered in October to 10th (optional) and 11th graders (mandatory for scholarship eligibility).
Only the top 1% of 11th-grade scorers (per state) are shortlisted for the National Merit Scholarship.
The total PSAT-NMSQT score is 1520 (760 in English + 760 in Math).
Each state has its own cutoff index, calculated as: ((2 × English Score) + Math Score)/10

Example Calculation:

English Score: 720 & Math Score: 740
Cutoff Index: ((2×720) + 740) /10 = 218

The cutoff index varies by state, typically ranging from 203 to 223.
- Texas: Recent cutoff has been 219.
- Washington & Massachusetts: Among the highest at 223.
Selection Process:
- 16,000 students are initially shortlisted.
- 15,000 become finalists.
- 7,500 receive the National Merit Scholarship.

Since the scholarship is highly competitive, earning this distinction can make a college application stand out.

For more details, visit: CollegeBoard PSAT-NMSQT Guide.

SAT: The College Entrance Exam

The SAT is a standardized entrance exam widely accepted by colleges and universities across the nation. Unlike the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) versions, SAT test dates are set by the College Board and are available multiple times throughout the year. Students can register for a date that suits them best and choose a convenient testing location, typically a local school. The test is usually administered on Saturdays.

Quick Facts About the SAT:

Total Score: 1600 (Math: 800 + English: 800)
Format: Fully digital test
Duration: 2 hours 14 minutes
Sections:
- 2 English Modules – Evidence-Based Reading & Writing
- 1 Math Module – Covers Arithmetic, Algebra 1 & 2, Geometry, Data Analysis, and Trigonometry
Calculator: The Desmos online calculator is available for the entire math module.
Most public schools in Texas offer the SAT free of cost to all Juniors (11th grade) and Seniors (12th grade) every March.
There is no restriction on the number of times a student can take the SAT. However, each additional attempt costs approximately $70 per test.
Students can register for the SAT directly on the College Board website.
Since students take PSATs in earlier grades, they should already have a College Board account used for SAT, AP exams, and score reporting.
Many students begin taking the SAT in the summer after 10th grade. This allows enough time to get familiar with the test format and content, improving their chances of achieving a competitive score.

ACT: The College Entrance Exam

The ACT is a standardized test widely accepted by colleges and universities across the U.S. Like the SAT, it assesses a student's readiness for college but differs slightly in structure and scoring. The ACT is offered multiple times a year, and students can register through the ACT website to select their preferred date and testing center, usually a local school.

Many students take the ACT alongside or instead of the SAT to determine which test best aligns with their strengths. Some colleges accept superscores, meaning they consider the highest section scores across multiple attempts.

Quick Facts About the ACT:

Total Score: Composite score out of 36 (Average of all four section scores)
Sections:
- English – Tests grammar, punctuation, and rhetorical skills
- Math – Covers Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Elementary Statistics
- Reading – Assesses reading comprehension across various subjects
- Science (optional from April 2025)– Evaluates data interpretation, analysis, and problem-solving skills
Optional Writing Section: Some colleges require the ACT Writing Test, which is scored separately (out of 12).
Duration: 2 hours 55 minutes (without Writing) | 3 hours 35 minutes (with Writing)
Calculator Policy: A graphing calculator is allowed for the Math section, but Desmos (online calculator) is not provided like in the SAT.
Scoring: Each section is scored out of 36, and the final composite score is the average of the four section scores.
Testing Frequency: Offered 7 times per year in the U.S.

ACT vs. SAT – Key Differences:

The ACT includes a Science section, whereas the SAT does not.
The SAT is more time-per-question friendly, while the ACT is faster-paced.
The ACT allows a calculator for all Math questions, while the SAT has both calculator and non-calculator sections.
SAT total score: 1600 | ACT composite score: 36

Many students take both exams to determine which test better suits their strengths.

Helpful Links:

SAT: (https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/)
SAT test format: https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/whats-on-the-test/structure
ACT: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act.html
ACT Format: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-changes/enhancements.html