A good PSAT score generally falls between 1210 and 1520, placing you in the top 10% of all test takers. The average PSAT score is about 920, and the highest possible score is 1520
. More specifically:
- Scoring above 1210 is considered strong and indicates you performed better than 90% of students
- Scores between 1400 and 1500 are highly competitive and suggest readiness for top-ranked colleges
- A perfect or near-perfect score (1490–1520) places you in the top 1%, which is exceptional
- For National Merit Scholarship qualification, students typically need to score around 1400 or higher, though the exact cutoff varies by state
The PSAT total score ranges from 320 to 1520, combining two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math, each scored between 160 and 760
. In summary, aiming for a score above 1210 is a good benchmark, with higher scores increasing your chances for scholarships and competitive college admissions.
