Introduction
Are you aware of the PSAT exam? If No then this blog will further clear all your doubts regarding the PSAT exam. Most students know the Scholastic Assessment Test, commonly known as the SAT exam; Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test(PSAT) is a shorter version of the SAT exam. PSAT generally refers to the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test. PSAT targets are 10th and 11th graders.
Every year, approximately millions of students participate in this test. But the question is, why take up this test?

Why take up the PSAT Exam?
Practice for SAT(The Main Exam)-Students usually take this test to familiarize themselves with the pattern of the SAT exam for college admission. Students can check their strengths and weak areas to work on after attempting this test.
To secure a Scholarship- The primary reason students take this test is to win a National Merit Scholarship. This scholarship gives students an attractive cash bonus of up to 2,500 dollars.
Structure of the Digital PSAT exam
As of fall 2023, the PSAT will no longer be a pen-and-paper exam. All students will take up the Digital PSAT. The test makers have shortened the test duration by approximately 45 minutes. The time duration for Digital PSAT is 2 hours and 14 minutes.
SECTION | TIME ALLOCATED | NO. OF QUESTIONS | MODUE |
Reading and Writing | 32 minutes | 27 | Module1 |
Reading and Writing | 32 minutes | 27 | Module2 |
Mathematics(Calculator not allowed) | 35 minutes | 22 | Module1 |
Mathematics(Calculator is allowed) | 35 minutes | 22 | Module2 |
Different Sections of the PSAT Exam
1. Evidence-based reading - The first section of the Exam is the evidence-based reading section; this will assess your reading skills. This test contains Literature, History, Science, and Social Science passages. This section is primarily multiple choice questions(MCQ), wherein four options exist, and you must choose the best-suited alternative.
2. Reading and Writing - The second Exam is the reading and writing section of the second module; this will assess your grammar and writing ability. This section will include questions about verb agreement, punctuation, present tense, past tense, phrases, and expressions.
3. The Maths Test - This section is further divided into two subheads, i.e., where the calculator is allowed and the other, where the calculator is not permitted. Both of these majorly focus on Geometry, Trigonometry, and theorems. In this section, 44 questions will be there, of which 33 will be MCQ type, and 11 will be student-produced responses, wherein students must write their calculated answers.
How much does the PSAT Exam cost?
Unlike the SAT, the PSAT exam takes place on school premises digitally. The PSAT usually costs 18 dollars, but this cost varies depending on the school. Schools might cover this cost, making this an accessible and mandatory test. Sometimes, this cost is higher than 18 dollars to cover the cost of the proctors hired for the Exam by the school authorities.
Most schools request students to pay this fee around September month. There can be fee waivers available to low-income 11th graders only. You can consult your school for queries related to such topics.
PSAT Test dates for 2023
The PSAT Exam is administered every autumn, usually starting in early or mid-October, on three dates: A primary date, A Saturday date, and An alternative date.
Primary Test Date | 11th October 2023, Wednesday |
Saturday Test Date | 14th October 2023, Saturday |
Alternative Test Date | 25th October 2023, Tuesday |
Conclusion
However, your PSAT Exam is far less important than your SAT exam. But, approaching the PSAT exam with proper diligence and hard work will be critical for your success. It prepares you for the actual Exam. PSAT scores directly translate to your SAT score; a 500 score on the PSAT now means a 500 score in the SAT exam. Your performance in this test will help you ascertain areas you need to work on closely. Don’t stress about this Exam; it’s just a practice set. Hello Study Global is a one-stop destination for all your study abroad needs; it will help you from guiding to preparing for your entrance exams.
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