Every year, sophomores take the PSAT, a practice version of the SAT. Ms. Sandas shared that the “district provides the PSAT for all 10th and 11th graders (10th-grade is scheduled for March 8th, May 7th, and again in the fall when they become 11th graders, typically in October).” The PSAT not only allows students to track their progress but also offers opportunities to qualify for scholarship programs.

Sophomore Zeynep Doga Kara reflected on her PSAT experience, saying “my PSAT exam went very well overall. Some of the passage questions in the English section were challenging, and the first part of the math section was very easy. However, the second part was a bit more difficult, and I needed more time. I was very stressed before the exam, but I felt relieved when I saw the questions.” Each student had similar experiences and felt relieved once the test was over.

Ms. Sandas also said that “over the last few years, College Board has transitioned the tests from paper and pencil to digital! Students will use their Chromebooks to take the PSAT.” According to the College Board, the digital format makes the test easier to take while maintaining the same structure and timing as the SAT. It still has a similar structure to the digital SAT as well as the same sections and timing for Reading and Writing, as well as various Math Skills.

The schedule remains the same for sophomores as they have to arrive prior to 7:15 am. However, the freshmen, juniors, and seniors arrive a couple of hours later. Classes begin around 10:00 am, and each class period is shortened to about 30 minutes.

There are many resources available to help students prepare for the PSAT, such as practice tests through the Bluebook testing app or Khan Academy. Ms. Sandas has also added that “In previous years (as well as this year), the district offers free SAT test prep to any 11th grader who signed up for it. We also recommend using Khan Academy, a free resource online that helps with test prep. Students can always ask their counselor and additional questions they may have about it!” Bluebook is the testing platform that students use to take the College Board exams. Students can use it for practice testing to get familiar with the format.

In conclusion, the PSAT is an important opportunity for sophomores to prepare for future testing and scholarship opportunities. With the right resources and preparation, students can succeed and track their academic progress.