Is PSAT required?
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The PSAT is not required by law or for college admissions, but many high schools make it mandatory for their students, particularly juniors. While the test itself is optional at the national level, individual schools and districts often require students to take it as part of their college preparedness initiatives. Some schools automatically register all 11th graders for the October PSAT and administer it during regular school hours, making participation essentially mandatory for students at those institutions.

School-Level Requirements vs. National Policy

The distinction between "optional" and "required" depends entirely on your specific school's policy. Many public school districts, especially in urban areas, have adopted the PSAT as a standard assessment tool and require juniors to take it. This approach helps schools track college readiness metrics and ensures all students have the opportunity to compete for National Merit Scholarships, regardless of their family's awareness of the program. However, students can typically opt out with parental permission, though schools may strongly encourage participation.

Private schools and some public districts leave PSAT participation entirely up to student choice, requiring families to actively register and pay for the test. In these cases, students must decide whether the benefits - including National Merit eligibility, SAT practice, and scholarship opportunities - justify taking an additional standardized test. Since PSAT scores don't appear on transcripts or factor into college admissions directly, students who are confident in their SAT preparation might choose to skip it.

The bottom line is that while no college or state education department requires the PSAT, your individual high school very well might. Check with your guidance counselor about your school's specific policy, as most schools that require it will cover the cost and administer it during school hours, making it a valuable opportunity even for students who might not have otherwise considered taking it.

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