The ILS halls are filled with conversations about the PSAT’s and how everyone prepares and perceives this test. The PSAT usually measures student readiness compared to the actual SAT. However, ILS also uses these scores to determine your class placement for next year. In light of the value of the test scores, are ILS students really informed and prepared for them?
“I didn’t really prepare for the PSAT since I didn’t know what it actually was,” said freshman Guilherme Oliveira.
The reality is that some students are unaware of the test’s importance because they aren’t informed of the benefits that scoring high can get them in both economic and recognition aspects.
Although PSAT’s measure your SAT readiness, the PSAT/NMSQT can also qualify you for the National Merit Scholarship which goes beyond monetary benefits but also academic recognition which strengthens résumés, something crucial to juniors planning out their future.
“National Merit is something only people in the 90th percentile achieve, but I always say it’s like playing a sport, the more that you practice the better you get,” said freshmen and sophomore counselor, Mrs. Laura Moya.
Amongst the most common preparation options are Khan Academy which offers SAT & ACT prep courses online, BlueBook Exams which resemble the test environment of an SAT, and recently there are new AI tutoring strategies for students like Acely.
“Taking the test seriously early on just makes it easier when you are taking the real exams later in your academic career. I just don’t think you need to spend a lot of money on tutoring to get a good score,” said Mateo Machado, senior at Coral Gables Senior High.
Despite all the resources, practices, and strategies, there is pressure that comes behind taking the PSAT. Students are expected to balance their academic, social, athletic, and personal life all at once which can cause stress and pressure on test day. That’s why getting used to the material may help you score better when you are taking both the practice and real test.
