Why Taking the PSAT Matters: Your Key to Future Success and Standardized Testing Updates You Should Know
As students prepare for the school year, high schoolers, especially juniors, are often overwhelmed with the sheer amount of tests and exams on the horizon. One test that sometimes gets overlooked is the PSAT—the Preliminary SAT. While it might seem like just another standardized test, the PSAT offers benefits that can significantly impact your college journey.
But before diving into the reasons to take the PSAT, it’s important to understand some major changes coming to standardized testing. If you’re thinking about whether to take the SAT or ACT, here’s what you need to know.
Big Changes to the ACT in Spring 2025: What You Need to Know
Starting in spring 2025, the ACT will undergo significant changes. The test will shift to an online format with several key updates:
- Fewer questions overall, giving students more time per question.
- The science section will become optional, offering greater flexibility.
While these changes may benefit some students by providing a slower pace and more options, there is a downside—limited study materials. Since this new format will be freshly introduced, students may struggle to find adequate preparation resources in the short term.
What About the SAT?
The SAT also recently transitioned to an online format, with the digital SAT launching in the U.S. in 2024. However, unlike the ACT, the digital SAT is adaptive. This means that the difficulty of the questions adjusts based on how well you perform as you go through the test. While this might sound intimidating, the SAT has a stable set of study materials already available, making it easier for students to prepare confidently.
Which Test Should You Choose?
With the ACT’s changes coming in 2025 and the current lack of prep resources for its new format, students may find the SAT a more reliable option for now. The SAT’s adaptive format and readily available study guides provide a more predictable experience for students looking to take a standardized test soon. However, if you prefer a more straightforward test structure or would like to skip the science section, the updated ACT might still be worth considering once more preparation materials are available.
If you’re still unsure which test is right for you, remember that taking the PSAT can help you better understand your strengths, especially if you’re leaning toward taking the SAT.
Why Taking the PSAT Is Important
Here are some compelling reasons to take the PSAT and how it can prepare you for whichever test you choose:
1. Great Practice for the SAT
You’ll get a firsthand experience of the question types, time constraints, and subject areas. This practice will give you a clear idea of where to focus your study efforts when preparing for the SAT.
2. Opportunity for National Merit Scholarship Program
Scoring well could earn you scholarships that significantly reduce the cost of college. Many colleges also offer additional scholarships based on your National Merit status.
3. Measure College Readiness
Taking the PSAT can provide you with a valuable assessment of where you stand academically. The detailed score report you receive will help you identify areas of strength and areas needing improvement, giving you plenty of time to enhance those skills before the SAT or ACT.
4. Gain Early Exposure to College Recruiters
When you take the PSAT, you can opt into the Student Search Service, allowing colleges to contact you. This could give you early exposure to schools you might not have considered otherwise, starting your college search process earlier than your peers.
5. Build Confidence for Future Tests
Taking the PSAT gives you experience with standardized tests in a low-pressure environment. This practice can help reduce test anxiety and boost your confidence when it’s time to take the SAT or ACT.
Final Thoughts: Prepare for Success
The PSAT is more than just a practice test; it’s a tool that helps you prepare for both the SAT and ACT, opens the door to scholarships, and provides valuable insight into your academic readiness for college. With the upcoming changes to the ACT and the SAT’s recent switch to a digital, adaptive format, the landscape of standardized testing is evolving.
If you’re still deciding between the SAT and ACT, remember that the SAT currently offers more accessible prep materials, while the ACT will soon feature fewer questions and an optional science section, which may appeal to some students. However, both tests offer their unique benefits, and taking the PSAT can help guide you in making the right decision.
If you’re a high school sophomore or junior, now’s the perfect time to sign up for the PSAT. The test will not only give you an advantage in future exams but also potentially open doors to college opportunities and scholarships. Make sure to prepare, stay confident, and use the PSAT to set yourself up for success!
Need help deciding or preparing? Reach out to us for personalized guidance on navigating these changes and choosing the right test for you.
