Digital PSAT prep for 2026

There are a few different PSAT tests students can take.

• PSAT 8/9: For 8th and 9th graders, administered throughout the school year. Shorter and less complex than the PSAT/NMSQT.
• PSAT 10: Taken in the spring of sophomore year. Identical to the PSAT/NMSQT, but doesn't qualify for National Merit Scholarships.
• PSAT/NMSQT: Taken in the fall of junior year. Identical to the PSAT 10, but it can qualify you for National Merit Scholarships.

The PSAT 8/9 and 10 are good markers of baseline scores. Once a student takes these, they know how much preparation they want to do for a certain goal PSAT score. Students should spend the summer before junior year preparing so they're ready to take the official PSAT/NMSQT in the fall of junior year (this one qualifies for National Merit Scholarships).

Start by setting a goal score using our PSAT scoring guide. Then follow a structured timeline with our 1-month PSAT study plan or 3-month PSAT study plan. Get consistent practice with either the official College Board Bluebook app or Incublia's 10 full-length practice tests.

On both, you can see your projected scores. With Incublia's dashboard, you also get strengths and weaknesses so you know how to target your practice. Use Incublia's practice question bank to work on your weakest topics.

The PSAT/NMSQT is a practice version of the SAT taken in high school that can qualify students for scholarships. It uses the same digital adaptive format as the SAT, so it's a great way to also prepare for the SAT.

The PSAT is a great test to take for a few reasons:

• SAT score prediction: The PSAT gives a good indication of your future SAT score, helping you gauge progress and identify strengths and weaknesses.
• Targeted practice: It highlights areas needing improvement, making SAT preparation more effective. Even 20 hours of targeted practice can significantly boost your SAT score.
• Scholarship opportunities: High PSAT scores can qualify for National Merit Scholarships and other awards. Opt into the Student Search Service for more scholarship opportunities.
• School requirements: Many high schools require the PSAT, often covering the cost. Check with your guidance counselor for specifics.

The PSAT 10 is taken in 10th grade (typically in the spring) and helps you practice for the SAT and see where you stand. The PSAT/NMSQT is the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, taken in 11th grade (usually in October). Only your junior-year PSAT/NMSQT score counts for National Merit eligibility. Both tests use the same digital format and structure; the NMSQT is the one that can qualify you for scholarships.

Both exams are part of the College Board's digital SAT Suite: the PSAT/NMSQT and the SAT share the same two-section structure (Reading and Writing, then Math) and the same adaptive module design. Total scores use different ranges (PSAT/NMSQT is 320–1520; the SAT is 400–1600), but the skills overlap closely. The biggest difference is purpose: the PSAT/NMSQT in junior year is what counts for National Merit recognition, while the SAT is what colleges use for admissions.

Most students take the PSAT first, then focus on the SAT afterward. When you are ready to shift to admissions prep, Incublia's digital SAT prep uses the same kind of adaptive practice and score insights so the transition feels familiar.