How the PSAT is scored
The PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10 mirror the digital SAT: a Reading and Writing section of 54 questions and a Math section of 44, each in two adaptive modules. Each section is scored from 160 to 760, for a total of 320 to 1520. The scale lines up with the SAT’s, so a 1200 on the PSAT suggests about a 1200 on the SAT if you tested the same day. The PSAT 8/9 is shorter-range (240–1440) and is not covered by this calculator.
As with the SAT, the College Board does not publish a raw-to-scaled table for the digital PSAT. The first tab estimates your section scores from questions correct and your second-module route, using the same curve as our SAT calculator adjusted to the PSAT range.
The National Merit Selection Index
Juniors who take the PSAT/NMSQT enter the National Merit Scholarship Program. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation ranks students by the Selection Index, which counts Reading and Writing twice:
Selection Index = (2 × Reading and Writing + Math) ÷ 10 Range: 48 to 228
This part is exact, not an estimate: enter the two section scores from your report in the second tab.
Worked example
The College Board’s own example: 620 in Reading and Writing and 500 in Math gives (2 × 620 + 500) ÷ 10 = 1740 ÷ 10 = 174. Because Reading and Writing is doubled, 10 more points there add 2 to your index, while 10 more in Math add 1. Students aiming for National Merit recognition often focus extra prep on Reading and Writing for that reason.
Commended and Semifinalist cut-offs
About 50,000 high scorers are recognized each year. Commended Student status uses one national cut-off; Semifinalist cut-offs are set state by state, so the index you need depends on where you live and on that year’s results. NMSC announces them after scores are in. Rather than relying on a past year’s number, compare your index with the most recent cut-offs NMSC or your counselor shares, and expect them to move a few points from year to year.
Tips
- Only the junior-year PSAT/NMSQT counts for National Merit. Sophomores can take it for practice, and the PSAT 10 does not enter the program.
- Use it as SAT practice. Your score report lists question types you missed. That is free, targeted prep for the SAT.
- Check eligibility. You must meet citizenship and enrollment requirements; students who will finish high school early need to take the test at the right time.
Questions students ask
What is a good PSAT score?
It depends on your goal. Your score report shows your percentile against other students in your grade, which is the best measure. For National Merit, what matters is your Selection Index compared with your state’s cut-off that year.
How is the National Merit Selection Index calculated?
Double your Reading and Writing score, add your Math score, and divide by 10. For example, 700 and 680 gives (1400 + 680) ÷ 10 = 208.
Does the PSAT predict my SAT score?
Roughly. The PSAT uses the same scale, so your PSAT total is a fair estimate of your SAT score at that point, before further prep.
Do colleges see my PSAT score?
No. PSAT scores are not sent to colleges. They are used for National Merit and other scholarship programs and for your own practice.
Sources
Checked: November 2026
Results are estimates for planning. Your school, college or testing organization calculates your official numbers. UpMyGPA is not affiliated with College Board, ACT, LSAC or the AAMC.