PSAT 2025 – What You Need to Know

If your student is taking the PSAT this October, there are a few important updates to be aware of, especially since the format looks a lot different than it did just a couple of years ago. First things first: the PSAT is now 100% digital. That means no more bubbling in answers with a pencil. Instead, students will complete the test on a device (usually a school-provided laptop or tablet) using the College Board’s Bluebook app. It’s quicker, more efficient, and built with student tools in mind. Here’s a quick snapshot of what to expect: No guessing penalty: Students won’t be docked points for incorrect answers. Adaptive format: The test adjusts based on how students do in the first half of each section, which makes accuracy right from the start even more important. Test length: About 2 hours and 14 minutes, significantly shorter than the old paper test. Timing breakdown: Reading & Writing: 2 modules, 27 questions each, 32 minutes per module. Math: 2 modules, 22 questions each, 35 minutes per module. The test experience itself is designed with helpful tools. Students can Use a built-in Desmos graphing calculator on the entire Math section. Highlight text and flag questions to revisit later. Cross out answer choices they know are wrong. Zoom in and out of the screen for better focus. Track time with an optional on-screen timer.

Reading passages are now shorter and to the point, typically 25 to 150 words with one question per passage. This change helps students stay focused and manage time more effectively. Scores will still be reported on a 1520-point scale, with 760 for each section. And for juniors, this test counts,  it is the qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship Program. The PSAT will be offered during the school day between October 1 and October 31, with some Saturday options (October 11 and October 18) available depending on the school. If you want a quick video explainer of these changes, check out Rath Tutoring’s: (https://www.rathtutoring.com/) Instagram posts right here. It’s a quick reel that breaks down what’s new and what students should be doing now to prepare.