The Digital PSAT: Everything You Need to Know

Just like the SAT and the ACT, the PSAT is now digital. This means that you’ll no longer have the option to take a paper format of the test. While the structure of the test is slightly different, the content itself won’t be anything new, especially since this will likely be your first time taking this test. 

Also see: 2023-2024 SAT test dates

The structure

Let’s talk about the structure of the digital PSAT! The structure of the test has changed slightly, but the content itself is fairly simple and hasn’t changed much from the paper format. It consists of only two sections: Math, and Reading and Writing. Each section is broken into two parts, which means there are four parts to the test in total. Below is a breakdown of the sections, number of questions and time allotted for each section.

Content

As for what to expect on the digital PSAT, if you’ve had friends or maybe an older sibling take it before you, you can expect to be tested on all the same material and content areas. While questions may be more concisely written, and the reading passages shorter, the skills used to answer those questions will remain the same. So, don’t fret and especially don’t worry that this new digital PSAT is designed to be harder, it isn’t! This test is simply advancing with technology!

Testing devices

Students will use devices that their school provides for them, so you shouldn’t need to worry about bringing your own device. If your school does require you to bring your own device, they will tell you in advance, as you will need to ensure your device meets a few key requirements. 

Preparing for the digital PSAT

Preparing for the digital PSAT will remain largely the same, the only thing you might want to add in is taking some online practice tests to become familiar with the digital format. It’s likely that you’ve taken on online tests by this point, so hopefully there is nothing there that trips you up. 

If your school has registered your or the PSAT, you should be able to take advantage of their online practice resources on their website, which includes a full length practice test! 

Scoring

The scoring for the test has not changed. So let’s take a look at scoring, when you can expect to receive your scores and how you’ll receive them. 

On the score report you receive there will be four scores: 

• A total score
• A score for each section (Math and one for Reading and Writing) 
• An NMSC index score 

Your total score on the PSAT will be between 320 – 1520, and each section is between 160-760, which means each section contributes equally to your score. Each score will also have a score range that shows students what percentile their score fell into. Scores are typically available online 4-6 weeks after you have taken the test. We won’t talk here about what a good PSAT score is, because we have a whole other article just for that! If you’re curious how your PSAT score can be used to predict your SAT score, we have an article about that too!

Depending on how you sign up, students can even receive text notifications when their scores are ready! In order to do this, students will need to provide their mobile number on test day. For students who would like another way to receive scores you can receive a copy of your test report from your school counselor. 

The National Merit Scholarship

In addition to your score report above, you’ll also receive a National Merit Scholarship Selection Index Score. This score is useful for the National Merit Scholarship Association to screen applicants who enter their scholarships programs and for the National Merit Scholarship. 

Below we’ll show you how the NMSC score is calculated!

Generally, students need a NMSC score in the top one percent of test takers. This means that the score you need can vary each year. 

Registering for the PSAT

Most students who take the PSAT will do so through their school, which means you’ll automatically be registered. However, if your school does not offer the PSAT you may be eligible to register through another local school. 
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Key Takeaways

• The PSAT has moved to a digital format and will not be available in the paper format any longer
• The new digital format of the PSAT holds largely the same structure and should take students about 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete
• Each section of the PSAT contributes equally to your overall score, which will be between 320 – 1520 points
• Taking the PSAT is a great way to practice for the actual SAT and potentially qualify for a National Merit Scholarship

Frequently asked questions about the digital PSAT