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628: What Should You Do With Your PSAT Results (and How They Might Earn You Scholarships)

628: What Should You Do With Your PSAT Results (and How They Might Earn You Scholarships)

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 Megan and Erin discussed the importance of utilizing PSAT results to identify areas for improvement and prepare for future standardized tests. They explain how to access and interpret PSAT scores, focusing on analyzing specific subject areas rather than just the overall score. Megan emphasizes the value of reviewing results early, particularly for high-achieving students who could potentially qualify for National Merit Scholarships. PSAT Results Review Discussion Megan and Erin discussed the importance of reviewing PSAT results and establishing a feedback loop beyond just taking the test. Megan explained that while schools provide digital access to results through College Board accounts, many students may not check them due to forgetting about the test or not understanding their relevance. They emphasized that even late in the school year, reviewing PSAT scores can provide benefits for students’ preparation. Accessing and Using PSAT Scores Megan explained how to access and use PSAT scores, starting with logging into the College Board account and potentially creating a new login if needed. She noted that students may need a code from their school counselor to match the test taken at school with the account. Megan emphasized the importance of noting login credentials, as they will be used for multiple years, including for AP coursework and college applications. She also mentioned that PSAT scores are similar to SAT scores and not the primary focus. PSAT Scoring System Explanation Megan explained the scoring system for the PSAT, noting that the perfect score has been reduced to 1520, down from 1600. She advised focusing on the detailed breakdown of performance across four categories in reading and four in math, particularly highlighting the math categories: algebra, advanced math (including quadratics and Algebra 2), data, and geometry. Megan used an example of a 9th grader’s PSAT results to illustrate how to analyze the breakdown of scores. Knowledge Maintenance and SAT Preparation Megan and Erin discussed challenges in maintaining knowledge across different subjects. Megan advised that reviewing lost concepts requires more effort than casual review, especially if a student was completely lost in a subject due to poor teaching or lack of engagement. Digital Test Feedback Limitations Megan discussed the limitations of current test results, noting that students no longer receive detailed feedback on missed questions as they did with paper exams. She explained that while digital tests provide basic information about content areas where students struggled, they lack the ability to review specific incorrect answers, which was previously helpful for understanding mistakes. Test Results Review Strategy Megan advised focusing on percentile rankings rather than numerical scores when reviewing test results, emphasizing that students should aim to be in the top half rather than the bottom. She suggested using test results as an early warning system to identify areas needing improvement, rather than waiting until junior year to address gaps in academic abilities. Megan also mentioned that students can focus their studying on specific weak areas once they receive their results, rather than trying to improve everything at once. PSAT Results and Scholarships Megan explained how to interpret PSAT results, particularly focusing on the selection index and its relevance to National Merit Scholarship qualifications. She noted that while 9th and 10th grade scores are valuable for identifying strong test-takers, only 11th grade PSAT scores count toward National Merit Scholarship consideration, with candidates typically needing to be in the top 3% of their state with a score around 220 or higher. Megan also mentioned that while prestigious universities may not offer significant incentives for National Merit scholars, many other colleges provide financial benefits to attract these students. Score Baseline Discussion Megan and Erin discussed the importance of using PSAT scores to establish a baseline for academic performance and determine study focus areas. Megan advised against taking the SAT unprepared to establish a baseline, as the PSAT serves this purpose effectively. Megan offers suggestions for students who don’t have access to the PSAT at school prior to 11th grade. PSAT Practice and Preparation Strategies Megan suggested using College Board’s online practice PSAT tests, which include automatic grading and detailed feedback to help students understand their mistakes and improve their performance. She emphasized the benefits of taking a preliminary PSAT, whether in 9th or 10th grade, to get familiar with the digital platform and identify areas for improvement. Megan encouraged anyone with questions about PSAT scores or National Merit to email the College Prep podcast team at collegeprepodcast(at)gmail.com. The post 628: What Should You Do With Your PSAT Results (and How They Might Earn You Scholarships) ...
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