Frequently Asked Questions

Q

What scores are reported?

A

The test has three components – critical reading, math and writing – and a score, ranging from 20-80, is reported for each.

Q

How do I know if my scores are good?

A

Almost all students that take the PSAT intend to go to college after high school. While the average score is 49, many students with scores lower than 49 continue on to college after high school.

Q

How do I use my PSAT scores to predict what I might get on the SAT test?

A

The PSAT scores range from 20-80 and the SAT scores range from 200-800 for each of the same three components. You can add a zero to the end of your PSAT score to get an estimate of what you might score on the SAT. Keep in mind that this is an estimate only. Your SAT score may increase, decrease or remain the same. You may be able to improve your score by actively preparing for the SAT.

Q

What will colleges do with my PSAT scores?

A

Nothing! Colleges are not sent any student’s individual PSAT scores. Colleges may purchase the names and addresses of students whose scores are within a specific range from the College Board but the college never receives your scores.

Q

How can I use my PSAT scores to help me prepare for the SAT?

A

Your scores can tell you where to focus your energy. If your math score is high but reading is low, put your time into improving your reading score. You can also use your PSAT scores to set a goal for the SAT.

Q

Why should I prepare for the SAT/ACT?

A

Prepared and confident students are much more likely to perform well on standardized tests. You should walk into the SAT or ACT confident that you know the test directions, familiar with the format of the test and comfortable using test taking strategies. For most students, this means spending some time preparing for the test and taking at least one practice test. Many students who prepare well for the test find that they are happy with their scores and don’t take the test more than once.

Q

What are the ways I can prepare for the SAT/ACT?

A

There are several ways to prep for college admission tests. The method you choose depends on your motivation, available time, learning style and financial resources. We will be hosting a prep class at TMS after school during the spring semester. There is also excellent, free, online test preparation.

Q

Beyond helping me decide how to prepare for the SAT, how should I use my PSAT scores in college planning?

A

Use your PSAT scores to estimate your SAT scores. When researching colleges, look at average SAT scores. Comparing this data to your SAT estimate will give you a sense for how rigorous the academics might be for you. Many factors are considered in the admission of an applicant to college with grades being the most important factor. By looking at the average SAT scores of admitted students you may be able to get an indication of how likely your admission might be.

Q

What scores are reported?

A

The test has four components – English, math, reading and science – and a score, ranging from 1-32, is reported for each as well as a composite score.

Q

How do I know if my scores are good?

A

Almost all students who take the PLAN intend to go to college after high school. While the national average composite score is 17.5, many students with scores lower than those continue on to college after high school.

Q

What if my PLAN scores were low?

A

The PLAN scores can only predict how you might score on the ACT. There is another college admission test, called the SAT, and it is very different from the PLAN and the ACT. Generally about 1/3rd of students who take both tests do better on the SAT. If your scores on the PLAN test are low, you might do much better on the SAT. You’ll take the PSAT (Preliminary SAT) in the fall of your junior year and those scores will help us predict your SAT scores.

Q

How do I use my PLAN scores to predict what I might get on the ACT test?

A

On the score report you will see an estimated ACT composite score range based on your PLAN results. The ACT is scores on a scale from 1-36 with 20 being the national average composite score. Keep in mind that this is an estimate only. Your actual score may increase, decrease or remain the same.

Q

What will colleges do with my PLAN scores?

A

Nothing! Colleges are not sent any student’s individual PLAN scores. Colleges may purchase the names and addresses of students whose scores are within a specific range from the ACT but the college never receives your scores.

Q

The career information makes no sense! Where did this come from?

A

At the end of the test you answered questions about activities and interests and the career information is drawn from your responses. If you answered those questions completely and honestly, the career information could be valuable to you. Sometimes the career portion will include an occupational area that you’ve never thought of before but might be worth learning more about.

Q

What are college rep visits?

A

During the fall, college admission representatives visit high schools to tell interested juniors and seniors about their college. They have lots of information about academic programs, living on campus, social life and what it takes to be accepted. They always leave time for students to ask questions and they often bring brochures with pictures of the campus. The College Counselor usually attends visits along with students.

Q

Who should go to these visits?

A

Juniors and seniors! It is helpful, particularly for juniors, to attend a few college rep visits as a way to help you think about the characteristics of a college that would be a good fit for you. Even if you are not interested in a specific college, chances are you’ll walk away from the visit with a better idea of what you are looking for.

Q

Is there anything I need to do to attend a visit?

A

Yes – a few details... Sign up on the appropriate sheet on Susan’s door. You will get an email the day before reminding you of the visit. On the day of the visit, check in with the teacher whose class you will miss and ask for permission to attend the visit. Remember that the teacher may not allow you to attend if there is a test, if you are behind in your work or if you’ll miss work that cannot be made up. Come up to the conference room in Building 3 at the scheduled time. Don’t rely on an announcement to remind you. It is your responsibility to make up any work you miss.