Parents of the Class of 2023,

As many of you know, numerous colleges and universities have adopted Test Free (also known as Test Blind) or Test Optional policies.  Test Free colleges and universities will not consider standardized test scores as a factor during the college admissions process.  Currently, the University of California system, the California State University system, as well as numerous colleges and universities on the West coast and throughout the United States are Test Free for the Class of 2022 (and likely beyond).  Test Optional colleges and universities allow a student to decide whether or not to submit test scores.  They promise that a student without test scores will not be disadvantaged during the college admissions process.  For more information visit fairtest.org.

Even though standardized tests might be optional during the college application process for the Class of 2023, we still want to offer the Maries an option to take the PSAT if they choose to.  Taking the test is completely your choice.  Please read the information below before deciding whether or not to take the PSAT.

What is the PSAT?  

It’s an optional test administered by the College Board that can be used to practice for the SAT and to identify students who qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program and National Recognition Programs. The PSAT is a modified version of the SAT - it’s a slightly shorter test with a modified scoring system.  High scorers (top 1% of scorers nationwide) can qualify for recognition as a National Merit Semifinalist and/or Finalist. Over the past several years, SFHS has had 0, 1, or 2 National Merit Semifinalists per year (all have gone on to become Finalists).

What are the Recognition Programs?

There are three National Recognition Programs, and typically students who qualify for these programs score in the top 10% of test takers in their state.

• African American Recognition Program
• Hispanic Recognition Program
• Indigenous Recognition Program 

Who should take the PSAT?

• Students who are trying to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program
• Students who are trying to qualify for one or more of the National Recognition Programs
• Students who are planning on taking the SAT at a future date
• Students who want a timed test experience

How do I sign up to take the PSAT?

Your daughters have been emailed this same information from their class Counselor, which included the link to the sign up form. The google form must be completed from your daughter’s SFHS email.  Completing the google form, will sign your daughter up for the PSAT which will be given to the Class of 2023 on Wednesday, October 13, 2021.  Students must sign up by September 3, 2021.

What can I do to prepare for the PSAT?

You can utilize a variety of online test preparation platforms, including Method Test Prep (which is a link in your Naviance account; click on the link and you can sign up for a Method Test Prep account that will allow you to test prep on your own time schedule) as well as Khan Academy.  Additionally, students can go directly to the College Board’s website to find test prep materials.