Know Your Stats - PSAT/SAT

The SAT is a standardized test that plays a crucial role in college admissions and other post-secondary opportunities. It allows students to highlight their academic strengths and show they are prepared for future challenges. DCPS is committed to supporting its students by providing the SAT resources and guidance they need to succeed.

Why the SAT?

The SAT is an admissions requirement at many colleges across the country. However, there are many other benefits to obtaining an SAT score, even if you do not plan to apply to college using test scores. The SAT helps to:

• Open doors to college
• Connect students to scholarship opportunities
• Qualify students for certain financial aid and college admission opportunities
• Increase access to AP and college credit
• Plan for careers via BigFuture

Still have questions? Learn more below and visit the SAT Suite of Assessments Website for answers to common FAQs.

SAT School Day

Preparing for the SAT

SAT Weekend Testing

Resources

What is SAT School Day?

DCPS provides the PSAT and the SAT to high school students for FREE at their home school during the fall and the spring. This is an opportunity for students to obtain a test score that they can choose to include on college applications or for other opportunities. All DCPS students are expected to participate.

All PSAT and SAT administrations are digital using the Blue Book App. Each school will choose a testing date within the window provided by the College Board and DCPS. Please see your school calendar for your school’s selected date.

SY24-25 In-School Testing Windows:

• Grade 9-11 – PSAT – October
• Grade 12 – SAT – October
• Grade 11 – SAT – March

Questions about SAT School Day should be directed to your school’s testing coordinator. Homeschool students interested in testing should reach out directly to Courtney Haddaway Delph at courtney.haddaway@k12.dc.gov.

How do I prepare for the PSAT and SAT?

According to the College Board, the best way to prepare for the SAT is to take challenging courses, study hard, and practice reading and writing both inside and outside the classroom. Cramming and short-term preparation cannot replace consistent hard work in school.

Taking the PSAT/NMSQT® is one of the most effective ways to start preparing for the SAT. The PSAT covers the same subjects under timed conditions, giving you a realistic practice experience. It can also qualify you for the National Merit Scholarship Program and other scholarships.

It’s crucial to know your PSAT and SAT scores and take steps to improve them. By understanding your scores, you can identify your strengths and areas for improvement. Use this information to tailor your study plan, seek additional resources, and set specific goals for progress.

To maximize your potential, utilize the following PSAT/SAT Preparation Tools:

• Ask your counselor about SAT Test Prep at your high school
• Practice for the PSAT and SAT on the Bluebook App
• College Board’s Free Online Practice Tools
• Free test prep through the Khan Academy

What is SAT Weekend Testing?

Outside of the SAT School Day, students may choose to participate in SAT weekend testing, to have more opportunities to increase their score. Students must use their own device for testing or may borrow a device from the College Board. The registration fee is $68, though some students may qualify for a fee waiver.

Resources for Students and Test Coordinators

For Students

• Understanding SAT Scores – SAT Suite | College Board
• Understanding PSAT/NMSQT Scores – SAT Suite | College Board
• Download the Bluebook Digital Testing App | College Board
• How to Use Khan Academy for SAT Prep | College Board

For Test Coordinators

Please note: Testing manuals for SY24-25 will be available in August 2024.

• PSAT 8/9 Manual
• PSAT/NMSQT Supervisor Manual
• SAT School Day Manual
• SAT Supervisor Manual
• Accommodation Testing Manual
• Test Coordinator Resource Page

For questions about general SAT administration, contact Courtney Haddaway Delph at courtney.haddaway@k12.dc.gov.