From Practice to Perfect: PSAT to SAT Conversion

The PSAT can help you prepare for the SAT, as it’s often seen as the “practice” SAT (though it really stands for Preliminary SAT). While it’s not a perfect 1:1 ratio, you can convert your PSAT score to an SAT score to see how you would have done if you took the real deal SAT. Below, we’ve done a brief comparison of the two tests and provided the conversion chart to help you predict your SAT score based on your PSAT.

PSAT Vs. SAT

The PSAT and SAT both test a student’s language, writing, math, and reading skills. However, they also have some differences. Here’s a quick overview:

• Scoring: Each section on the SAT is scored between 200 and 800, for a maximum of 1600. The PST sections are scored between 160 and 760, or a combined score between 320 and 1520.
• Length: The SAT lasts 3 hours and 50 minutes compared to the PSAT’s 2 hours and 45 minutes.
• Difficulty: The SAT is more difficult than the PSAT, with the SAT’s reading section requiring better comprehension skills and the math section covering more complex material.
• Calculators: Students can use a calculator on some portions of the math sections on both the SAT and PSAT. Since the SAT is more difficult, students will likely find they’re using their calculator more often on the SAT compared to the PSAT.
• Purpose: The PSAT is used for the National Merit Scholarship Program and to help students prepare for the SAT or ACT. The SAT is used for college admissions. Colleges don’t look at a student’s PSAT score.
• Administered for: 10th and 11th graders usually take the PSAT, administered by their high school during school hours. 11th and 12th grades take the SAT, in preparation for college admissions, typically at their high school, a local school, or online.

PSAT to SAT Conversion

Since the PSAT and SAT follow similar formats, students can convert their PSAT results to get their “predicted” SAT score. Keep in mind that the SAT is much more difficult than the PSAT. As a result, a perfect score on the PSAT doesn’t equate to a perfect score on the SAT.

Use the table below to convert your PSAT score to your predicted SAT score. However, these numbers are based on previous data from the College Board and can change, especially as the SAT and PSAT undergo adjustments. The conversion chart also only works for the PSAT, not the PSAT 8/9 or PSAT 10, which are different versions of the test for younger students.

How To Use Your PSAT Results Predicted SAT Score

After using the chart, you should know your predicted SAT score. You can then use this number, your experience taking the PSAT, and your PSAT breakdown report to help you create goals to improve your results. Think of it as a foundation. What sections did you struggle with?

As you prepare for the real SAT in 11th and 12th grade, take practice exams at home, working off that foundation. If you had trouble with the math section, devote more study time to those problems. The College Board, Khan Academy, and other organizations provide free resources to help you prepare. With the right strategy based on this baseline, you should see your score improve over time.

The PSAT isn’t just a practice exam. A high score can result in recognition and even a scholarship for college. It’s important to take it seriously. The PSAT also works as a foundation for the SAT and can provide you with valuable direction for your SAT study.

Do you know what to aim for on the SAT? Colleges often publish the scores they’re looking for from their applicants. College Raptor’s College Match makes it easy to see these numbers so you can create a game plan for your applications. Plus, it’s free!