PSAT
Dear 9th, 10th, & 11th Grade Parents,
On Wednesday, October 9th, St. Rose High School will administer the PSAT exam to all 9th, 10th, and 11th-grade students. The PSAT serves as an excellent primer for the SATs. The test will begin promptly at 8:00 am; therefore, it is imperative for all students to be on time and in their homeroom before 7:55 am.
Last year, the College Board's PSAT/NMSQT has transitioned from a paper-and-pencil exam to a fully digital format. Our guidance counselors have been visiting classrooms to introduce students to the PSAT, ensure their computers are compatible with the test application, and that their login credentials are active. Students with a computer running MAC or Windows will use their own computer to complete the test. Students with their own Chromebook will be given a school device to use on test day. It is very important that students keep their computer plugged in the night before the exam so it is fully charged on Wednesday morning. If you have any concerns, please reach out to your child's guidance counselor.
Participating in the PSAT/NMSQT® can encourage students to begin thinking seriously about life after high school, college and career goals, and the education required to achieve those goals. The PSAT/NMSQT® has been designed to closely mirror the SAT®.
St. Rose High School is committed to providing all students with the academic opportunities necessary to prepare for college and beyond. Participation in the PSAT/NMSQT® is a crucial step in this preparation.
Taking the PSAT/NMSQT® offers several advantages to students:
1. It measures the reading, math, and writing skills required for college and career planning. After the test, students will receive their online score reports, which will highlight opportunities to strengthen their academic skills. These reports can be used to identify strengths and weaknesses related to college readiness.
2. It prepares students for taking the SAT.
3. College Board's BigFuture® app helps students plan for college, explore career options, and manage college expenses.
4. Juniors who score well on the PSAT may qualify for National Merit Recognition and Scholarships.
5. It provides valuable information to both parents and students regarding a student's potential for advanced academics in high school.
To prepare for this exam, students can review the information in the PSAT/NMSQT® Student Guide. Additionally, there is extra practice material available online.
Furthermore, the College Board has partnered with Khan Academy® to offer free SAT online practice. This customized test preparation includes skill-based videos and practice SAT questions. Students can link their College Board and Khan Academy accounts to receive free personalized learning plans based on their test performance when they receive their score reports.
**What Should Students Bring on Test Day?**
- Your fully charged device*. You must have the app installed and exam setup complete before test day if you're testing with a personal device.
- A power cord and/or a portable charger*. We cannot guarantee you’ll have access to an outlet during testing. Your device should be able to hold a charge for 3–4 hours.
- A pencil or pen.
- Scratch paper will be provided—do not bring your own.
- An approved calculator. There’s a graphing calculator built into the app, but you can bring your own if you like.
- An external mouse if you use one.
* Only applicable for students using their personal Windows or Mac device.
Score Reports will be available electronically to students in their College Board accounts 6-8 weeks following the administration of the PSATs.
As a reminder, October 9th is an Early Dismissal day. Students will be dismissed at 12:30 pm. For students needing transportation home, please be aware that they will need to wait for the regular 2:30 pm bus service. You can find a list of key dates here.
Thank you for partnering in your child's success.
Educationally yours,
Mr. Timothy O'Halloran
