PSAT To SAT Conversion and Differences Chart: Predicted SAT Scores

Published January 18, 2024 · · Updated July 18, 2024 · 10 minutes · by Kamerpower ·

PSAT To SAT Conversion and Differences Chart: Check Your Score. Are you preparing for the SAT and curious about how your performance on the PSAT might translate? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the process of converting your PSAT scores to predicted SAT scores. The PSAT, or Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test, serves as a precursor to the SAT and provides valuable insights into your strengths and areas for improvement. By understanding the conversion process, you can gain a better understanding of where you stand in terms of readiness for the SAT and set realistic goals for yourself. So let’s dive in and predict your score!

If you’ve taken the PSAT and you’re looking to estimate your projected SAT score, you can use the PSAT to SAT Conversion Chart given in the article. The PSAT and SAT are different tests and PSAT scores aren’t considered during the college admissions process, but your PSAT score can help guide your SAT/ACT preparation and provide a predicted SAT score. 

PSAT to SAT conversion can help you predict your future SAT score. There are three versions of the test: 

• PSAT 8/9 (designated for 8th and 9th graders)
• PSAT 10 (designated for 10th graders)
• PSAT/NMSQT (designated for 11th graders seeking to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship)

What is the PSAT?

The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) is a standardized test administered to high schoolers by the College Board. The exam is designed to test students on their reading, writing, and math skills. The PSAT is commonly taken by high school students to prepare for the SAT and to qualify for college scholarships.

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What does a 1200 on the PSAT equal on the SAT? The Predicted SAT Score is 1300.

PSAT to SAT Score Conversion Chart Calculator

This chart is used to estimate SAT score based on your PSAT score. Your SAT Score can be predicted using PSAT 10 or PSAT/NMSQT Total Score as given below:

PSAT Score	Predicted SAT Score
400	630
410	640
420	650
430	650
440	660
450	670
460	680
470	690
480	700
490	700
500	710
510	720
520	730
530	740
540	750
550	760
560	760
570	770
580	780
590	790
600	800
610	810
620	810
630	820
640	830
650	840
660	850
670	860
680	870
690	870
700	880
710	890
720	900
730	910
740	920
750	920
760	930
770	940
780	950
790	960
800	970
810	970
820	980
830	990
840	1000
850	1010
860	1020
870	1030
880	1030
890	1040
900	1050
910	1060
920	1070
930	1080
940	1080
950	1090
960	1100
970	1110
980	1120
990	1130
1000	1140
1010	1140
1020	1150
1030	1160
1040	1170
1050	1180
1060	1190
1070	1190
1080	1200
1090	1210
1100	1220
1110	1230
1120	1240
1130	1240
1140	1250
1150	1260
1160	1270
1170	1280
1180	1290
1190	1300
1200	1300
1210	1310
1220	1320
1230	1330
1240	1340
1250	1350
1260	1350
1270	1360
1280	1370
1290	1380
1300	1390
1310	1400
1320	1410
1330	1410
1340	1420
1350	1430
1360	1440
1370	1450
1380	1460
1390	1460
1400	1470
1410	1480
1420	1490
1430	1500
1440	1510
1450	1510
1460	1520
1470	1530
1480	1540
1490	1550
1500	1560
1510	1570
1520	1570

If you’re wondering what score you’d need to boost your odds of getting into your top choice schools, check out this PSAT To SAT Conversion chart above.

• What are the Differences between PSAT and SAT?

What is a good PSAT score?

The average score right now is 1500 (out of 2400). A good starting score for scholarships for many colleges is around 1800. Full scholarships can be obtained with scores around 2100. A lot of colleges say they are not counting the new writing section for the first few years.

It also varies yearly depending on what state you live in and the average test score the year it is taken. For example, qualifying scores for Texas have been around a 216 but for Arkansas, they have been around a 201.

Benchmarks for 11th graders taking the PSAT/NMSQT

• Reading and Writing: 460
• Math: 510
• Total Score: 970

Benchmarks for 10th graders taking the PSAT 10

• Reading and Writing: 430
• Math: 480
• Total Score: 910.

Benchmarks for 9th graders taking the PSAT 8/9

• Reading and Writing: 410
• Math: 450
• Total Score: 860

Benchmarks for 8th graders taking the PSAT 8/9

• Reading and Writing: 390
• Math: 430
• Total Score: 820.

What is the difference between the SAT test and the PSAT/NMSQT test?

The two tests are very similar now. They both contain three sections: Math, Critical Reading and Writing. However, the PSAT/NMSQT does not contain an essay and has up to Algebra 1 on the math section, whereas, The SAT contains some Algebra 2.

The PSAT/NMSQT is only offered in October (third Tuesday or Saturday) and the SAT is offered seven times a year (October, November, December, January, March, May and June). The SAT is used for college entrance as well as scholarship opportunities, but the PSAT/NMSQT’s sole purpose is to determine eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship program.

Both tests are important and when students are studying test-taking techniques for one test, essentially they are also studying for the other test.

PSAT/NMSQT Calculator Use

You’re allowed to use a calculator on all questions in the Math section. In the Math section of the test, you’ll focus on complex modeling and reasoning, using your calculator to save time.

The Math section includes some questions where it’s better not to use a calculator, even though you’re allowed to. In these cases, students who make use of structure or their ability to reason will probably finish before students who use a calculator.

The digital test platform itself has a built-in graphing calculator that you can use if you wish, or you can use your own approved calculator. The choice you make should be based primarily on which tool you’re more comfortable with. It is recommended to try out both options during your practice.

PSAT/NMSQT Calculator Rules

• You’ll be dismissed and your scores canceled if you use your calculator to share information during the test, or to remove test questions or answers from the test room.
• Bring your own calculator. You can’t share one.
• You may not use a calculator while working on the Reading and Writing section. You must put the calculator away during these modules of the test.

Prohibited Calculators for PSAT/NMSQT

• Models that can access the internet, have wireless, Bluetooth, cellular, audio/video recording and playing, camera, or any other smartphone-type features. 
• Laptops or other computers, tablets, mobile phones, smartwatches, or wearable technology.
• Models that use electrical outlets, make noise (unless approved as an accommodation), or have a paper tape.
• Models that have a computer-style (QWERTY) keypad, pen input, or stylus. 

Calculator Tips

• The Math section includes some questions where it’s better not to use a calculator, even though you’re allowed to.
• It may help to do scratch work on the scratch paper provided. Get your thoughts down before using your calculator.
• Make sure your calculator is in good working order and that the batteries are fresh. If your calculator fails during testing and you have no backup, you can continue testing using the built-in Desmos graphing calculator.
• If you’re not familiar with the Desmos calculator that’s embedded in the digital test, take some time to learn how to use it while taking a practice test on the Bluebook app or on a Desmos Graphing Calculator preview experience.
• If you prefer to bring your own calculator, don’t bring a brand-new calculator. Bring one you know. Practice for the test using the same calculator you’ll use on test day.

Composite ACT/SAT Conversion Table

How often are the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT offered?

The SAT is offered seven times a year (October, November, December, January, March, May, June), and the PSAT/NMSQT is offered once a year (Third Wednesday or Saturday in October).

What kind of calculator do I need for the SAT/ACT and PSAT?

First of all, all math questions on these tests CAN be answered correctly and quickly without a calculator.  However it is recommended that all students take a calculator to the test. You are only allowed to use it during the math sections, and sharing one will be cause for dismissal from the test.

What type of Algebra is tested on the SAT/ACT and PSAT? Trigonometry?

The difference between Algebra 1 and 2 is a matter of level or degree. Both the SAT/ACT and the PSAT math difference can be nominal when it comes to the “heart of Algebra tested. there is usually 1-2 trig questions as well and some geometry.

What if I miss the one chance at the PSAT/NMSQT when it counts?

If your student misses the PSAT/NMSQT in their junior year due to illness or extenuating circumstances, they can take the “alternative testing option.”

• Students can take the SAT 1 in exchange for the PSAT/NMSQT and the score is converted  and used in substitution for the PSAT/NMSQT.
• They have up to eight months to retake this test several times (after the October PSAT/NMSQT has been administered).
• This procedure includes calling or sending a letter or fax to the National Merit Corporation (by March 1st) stating that your child did not take the test and you want the extension/alternative testing time.
• Students will need to have a counselor (or parent if homeschooled) sign-off on this request.
• It is not necessary to give a reason why they missed the test on the packet.
• The National Merit Corporation will send you information showing future SAT test dates and tell you to use their code on the test (code 0085). The scores will then go directly to them [The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (847)866-5100]. Students will still be eligible for scholarships opportunities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the PSAT can provide a helpful indication of your potential performance on the SAT, it is important to keep in mind that there are several factors that can influence your actual score on test day. The PSAT to SAT conversion chart can be a useful tool for estimating your score range, but it should not be considered an absolute predictor.

It is crucial to continue studying and preparing for the SAT using additional resources and practice tests to ensure you achieve your desired results. Ultimately, the best way to gauge your readiness for the SAT is through consistent effort, dedicated preparation, and a positive mindset.