25 PSAT Tips: Advice from a Top 1% Scorer
25 PSAT Tips: Advice from a Top 1% Scorer
Bonus Material: Try a sample of the new PSAT
The PSAT is a key step on the road to college applications. It’s a standardized test taken by many students as juniors, and sometimes by sophomores as well.
The PSAT is very similar to the SAT, which is one of the two tests (along with the ACT) used for college admissions. The PSAT is a great chance to see how prepared students are for the SAT and get a sense of what SAT scores they might achieve. The PSAT Score Report provides students and families with lots of great data for crafting a personalized SAT strategy.
PSAT scores aren’t used directly by colleges for admissions purposes, but they can be used to win prestigious scholarships and get noticed by colleges for recruitment and other scholarship opportunities.
Top-scoring students can earn recognition from the National Merit program, which gives students an edge with college admissions and can even result in full-ride scholarships at certain schools.

Back when I was in high school, my high scores on the PSAT won me a National Merit scholarship and helped me get into Princeton. Now I help today’s students to feel more comfortable with the PSAT and other college admissions tests. Here are my top 25 tips for the PSAT!
Before the test
PSAT tip #1: Be familiar with the test
The PSAT may be sometimes known as the “practice SAT,” but avoid taking the PSAT completely cold — this can lead to a negative testing experience, which can increase test anxiety for the SAT and other important college admissions tests.
Spend a few minutes reading our “What is the PSAT?” post and learn about the general structure of the PSAT. Remember that the PSAT is changing significantly in fall 2023, so make sure you’re becoming familiar with the new version of the test!
PSAT tip #2: Take a practice test and set your goals
The best way to get a good sense of the PSAT is to take a practice test. Download our shortened 30-minute sample PSAT for free to get a taste of the test. Then set aside three hours to take a full practice test in simulated testing conditions. (Make sure you’re practicing the new 2023 version of the test.)
These practice tests can reveal valuable information for test-prep strategy. For the PSAT, it’s especially important to know if you have a reasonable shot at a top score. If you score in the top 3% of test-takers, you can win recognition from the National Merit program and earn big scholarships, including full-ride scholarships to certain colleges. If you know you tend to score highly on standardized tests, you should take the PSAT seriously, because there’s significant money and admissions advantages on the line.

If you’re not sure if you might be a top scorer, download our short 30-minute sample and see how you do. We typically recommend that students who score in the top 5% of standardized tests take the PSAT seriously and do more focused prep.
Use your performance on practice tests to determine your strengths and weaknesses. Be strategic about the areas where you can improve the most on the test with a bit of effort. Make a list of the concepts or types of problems to practice — an experienced tutor can help with crafting a strong prep strategy based on practice tests.
PSAT tip #3: Learn concepts you don’t know (strategically)
After taking a practice test and making a list of the concepts you don’t know, set aside some time to learn those missing concepts.
Use books and online resources or reach out to a teacher or private tutor for help filling in the gaps in your knowledge.
Be strategic — focus on the concepts that will appear most frequently on the test, like basic grammar rules, algebra of straight lines, and basic operations with exponents. For example, can you simplify these math expressions comfortably?

Only once those basics are solid should you work on concepts that appear less frequently, like circle equations or literary devices.
Pro tip: Don’t spend time memorizing SAT vocabulary. Personally, I find vocabulary flashcards to be a waste of time. The likelihood that you’ll successfully memorize the specific words that appear on the test is very low, and your time and focus will yield much greater results if you focus instead on semicolon rules. If you are preparing in advance and want to improve your vocabulary, read books and magazine articles, or listen to podcasts. Ask your local librarian or work with one of our tutors for customized recommendations!
PSAT tip #4: Practice, practice, practice!
The single best way to improve your PSAT score is to practice.
Do focused drills on weak areas or concepts you’ve just learned to strengthen your knowledge.
Occasionally do full timed practice tests — this is important for getting a good sense of pacing on the test. There are free full practice tests available from the College Board and Khan Academy. Make sure you’re practicing the new 2023 version of the test, which will be digital and significantly different.

Know that any practice you do for the PSAT will also prepare you for the SAT, because they are nearly identical tests. The SAT is just a little bit longer and a little bit tougher.
PSAT tip #5: Use up-to-date, high-quality resources
Major changes are coming to the PSAT and the SAT in 2023. The new digital version of the test will not just be taken in a different way (on laptops and tablets instead of with pencil and paper), but it will also have a completely new structure. Some of the types of questions will be significantly changed, and the Reading section will be completely different. Read more about the changes here.
This means that most PSAT and SAT prep resources are going to be out-of-date. It’s going to be important to use recently revised, up-to-date resources, especially for the new Reading & Writing section. Check that resources have been updated since fall 2022, when the College Board released preview material for the new digital PSAT and SAT.

One reliable study resource is the educational non-profit Khan Academy, which has partnered with the creators of the PSAT and SAT to make high-quality online test prep materials. They’re especially great for math resources.
A good test-prep tutor can help students and families make sure that they’re practicing the right version of the test and using the best resources available.
PSAT tip #6: Use a variety of strategies to answer test questions
In addition to learning the underlying concepts being tested by the PSAT, it can be helpful to learn strategies for answering different types of questions found on the test.
Sometimes the most effective or time-efficient method of solving a problem is to work backwards, plug in test solutions, or another “hack.” Some strategies that might not fly in your high school classes (where teachers will often want you to show your work and solve a problem in a particular way) are fine on the test. In the end, the only thing that counts is choosing the correct answer, not how you got there!
Test-prep tutors can help students to learn proven strategies for solving each separate type of question.
PSAT tip #7: For math problems, draw a picture or diagram
Often a good way to get started on a math problem is to draw a rough sketch of the situation or a quick diagram.
Students should absolutely draw a diagram for any geometry problem that does not already provide one.
Thumbnail sketches can also be very helpful for visualizing problems involving the equation of a line, parabolic curve, or exponential growth curve.
If you feel completely stumped on a problem, drawing a little picture can often help to jog your thinking. Just don’t spend too much time making your drawing exact!

PSAT tip #8: For grammar questions, read the sentence “out loud”
For grammar questions on the Reading & Writing section, try reading the multiple-choice options out loud. Often you’ll be able to “hear” the right answer — trust your instincts! This strategy is especially helpful for questions about comma placement.
Of course, on the actual test you won’t be able to make noise, so you’ll have to mouth the words silently. This may feel silly, but we still recommend it! Top scorers and National Merit winners read out the options, so it’s not too silly for you.
PSAT tip #9: For Reading questions, avoid answers that distort the scope
One common trap that the test writers set on reading comprehension questions is to create multiple-choice answers that are a little bit right but have a distorted scope.

In particular, be very careful with answers that use words like “all,” “none,” “never,” “always,” “every,” etc. These are often trap answers and should send alarm bells ringing for you.
PSAT tip #10: For Reading and Writing questions, think of your own answer first
This tip is especially great for high-scoring students who tend to overthink their answers.
The test writers will deliberately set traps for students. They’ll write answers that echo certain phrases from the text or “sound good,” and once you read these trick answers, you start to believe that they’re a good choice.
A secret hack for avoiding these traps is to ignore the multiple-choice answers at first. Instead, just focus on the question and think of what your own answer would be based on the text, as if it were a free-response short-answer question.

Once you have that answer fixed in your head, then look at the multiple-choice options. Usually one will closely match your own idea, and that’s the one to choose. Ignore any other options and feel confident in your choice.
PSAT tip #11: Get help as needed
There’s a lot to manage with test prep, and it can be a good idea to get help as needed.
If you’re struggling with particular concepts, sometimes there are good resources online. Khan Academy is a reliable study platform, especially for math, and students can find YouTube explanations of specific topics.
Some high school teachers may be generous with their time and offer additional help to students, and there are some platforms for free or low-cost peer and community tutoring. When considering group test-prep classes, look for classes with qualified teachers, small classes, and the ability to get additional help from the teachers. Working one-on-one with a tutor will be the most efficient way to prepare for the PSAT and SAT, because an experienced tutor can help a student to focus immediately on the areas where they can gain the most points the most quickly.
Check out our list of top PSAT tutoring services here.
PSAT test day
PSAT tip #12: The night before the test, sleep — don’t cram
Don’t study the night before the test. The benefit from another few hours of studying or practice is going to be outweighed by the stress hormones and exhaustion that can come from last-minute cramming.
Instead, focus on getting a full night’s sleep. (For most teenagers, this is 8 or 9 hours of sleep.) As much as busy schedules allow, do something that you find enjoyable or relaxing. Eat a healthy, balanced evening meal, avoid caffeine in the evening, and avoid blue lights and screens that can disrupt sleep.
The only exception to this advice is if you haven’t done any prep and have no idea what the test will look like! In that case, spend an hour or so familiarizing yourself with the test format and types of questions you’ll see. Read our “What is the PSAT?” post and download our 30-minute mini PSAT to get a taste of the test. And of course, read this list of top PSAT tips!

PSAT tip #13: Bring the right things to the test
The night before the test, pack your bag with everything you’ll need on test day. Remember, the PSAT is administered in schools on a school day, so it can be difficult to remember that this school day will be different.
For the PSAT, you’ll need to bring:
- Photo ID
- Device for taking the new digital test: laptop or tablet with a battery that can last four hours, fully charged, with charger — contact your school if you need to borrow a device for taking the test
- Two #2 pencils — even if the new test is digital, you’ll still be provided with scratch paper for making notes and calculations
- Watch (that doesn’t beep) to keep an eye on time: I personally like an old-school watch with a second hand, but some people like a digital watch that has a timer function
- Calculator that you feel comfortable using (and that is approved by the College Board) with full batteries — don’t try out a new fancy calculator on the day of the test, a surprisingly common mistake!
- Bottle of water to stay hydrated — water accounts for 75% of your brain mass and dehydration can affect cognitive function
- Healthy snack to eat during the break — aim for brain-boosting protein and complex carbs, not sugar
- Comfortable layers, like a hoodie, in case the testing room is chilly
- Headphones for listening to pump-up music before the test

PSAT tip #14: The morning of the test, eat breakfast
You’ve heard this one before.
The morning of the test, eat a good breakfast. (Or at least something for breakfast!)

Aim for brain-boosting proteins and complex carbohydrates, like oatmeal, yogurt with granola and berries, rice with eggs or fish, arepas de pescado, or whatever you like. These foods will help boost your concentration power and aid you to perform your best. Avoid simple sugars like donuts, sugary cereals, or pop-tarts.
When it comes to caffeine and medications, stick to your usual routine. If you normally drink tea or coffee, go for it — but don’t have more than your usual. Testing day is not when you should experiment or change it up!

PSAT tip #15: Arrive early to the testing location
On testing day, leave plenty of time to get to the testing location.
Most students will take the PSAT at their school on a school day, which is a great chance to practice for the SAT in a familiar environment.
Plan to arrive a bit early on PSAT testing day. The last thing you want is to flood your body with stress chemicals from something totally unrelated to the test, like worrying about traffic or parking.
PSAT tip #16: Use small hacks to boost confidence
Everyone gets a little nervous for important tests, even the strongest students.
Fortunately, there are a lot of small hacks that can boost your confidence level before and during the test.
Take a note from pro athletes and listen to pump-up music (with headphones) in the morning before the test. Make a playlist beforehand with the music that makes you feel confident, capable, and strong!

Do a little bit of exercise before the test to get your blood flowing and decrease stress. Take a short walk, jog around the block, or do a few jumping jacks.
Try short power poses, like standing like Superman with your chest puffed out and your chin up. These have been shown to help boost confidence levels! Do them in a bathroom stall if you feel self-conscious, or even do mini versions of them seated at your testing desk.
Engage in positive self-talk before and during the test. You’ve got this, and with the PSAT there’s little to lose.
Just do your best!
PSAT tip #17: Pace yourself on the test
Time management is the #1 challenge for students on the PSAT, SAT, and ACT.
Budget your time on the test, and keep an eye on the clock. If you’re aiming to answer every question, set a quick halfway goal. For example, you might calculate that by 10:15 you should have about 20 problems done on the Math section.
The best way to practice pacing is by doing timed practice tests and full sections. A good PSAT/SAT tutor will help students improve their pressing.
A good rule of thumb is to spend no more than one minute on an individual question.

PSAT tip #18: Prioritize the easier questions
On the PSAT (and also on the SAT and ACT), all of the questions are worth the same amount of points.
This has a crucial consequence for testing strategies. If all questions are worth the same, then you should absolutely prioritize easy and medium questions over the hard questions.
Imagine you eventually reach the correct answer on a hard question, but it takes you 2 minutes and you run out time to finish the test. Perhaps in those 2 minutes you could have answered 3 or 4 easier questions correctly. It’s much better to answer more easy questions than a few harder questions!
In fact, if you’re not a top-scorer, then it might be strategic to just guess on the hardest questions and focus your efforts on the easy and medium questions.
(How do you know if you’re a top scorer and which strategy you specifically should be using? Take a practice test and see your projected score. An experienced tutor will also help you to make a customized plan based on your strengths and weaknesses.)
PSAT tip #19: Use the testing breaks
During the test there will be at least one break.
Use this break to your advantage — don’t just sit at your desk.
If you need to, use the bathroom. Eat your healthy snack, drink some water, and move around. (Exercise or movement will help your body maintain concentration.) Do a few quick power poses to boost your confidence again. Spend a minute doing some deep breathing to calm your nervous system and improve your focus.

PSAT tip #20: Don’t leave any answers blank
This is a very important tip, and a key reason that some students score lower than they should on the PSAT!
There are no penalties for incorrect answers on the PSAT or SAT. (This used to be different, so older folks might give incorrect advice on this one.)
That means that if you don’t know the answer, you should always guess something! Even if it’s a complete guess, you’ll have a 25% chance of guessing the answer correctly. If you can eliminate one or two choices, your chances improve to 33% or 50%. There’s nothing to lose!
Make sure to leave enough time at the end of each section to confirm that you’ve selected an answer for every question.
PSAT tip #21: Calm your body with deep breathing
One of my favorite testing hacks is to use deep breathing to boost concentration and focus. Deep breathing has been scientifically proven to improve test performance!
As humans, our bodies haven’t evolved very much from back when we were hunters and gatherers in the wild. When we get nervous, our bodies send energy away from our brains and stomachs (which aren’t needed for running away or fighting a lion) and towards our legs and other big muscles (for running or fighting).
That’s why when we get nervous, we can’t concentrate properly and our stomachs feel queasy!
Of course, this isn’t very helpful for modern-day challenges like tests.
Deep, slow breaths can hack into our autonomic nervous systems and reset this for our bodies.
Try breathing in for 4 slow counts, holding your breath for 4 counts, and then releasing your breath over 6 or 8 counts.

Even a few slow breaths like this will have a surprisingly powerful effect! You can do this before a test, in between testing sections, or even during the test if you feel your brain spinning out and losing focus. The 30 seconds you lose doing 3 deep breaths will be more than outweighed by the gain in concentration if you feel like test anxiety is getting the better of you.
Over the years, our sensitive tutors have helped many students to develop and practice techniques for mitigating test anxiety. We’ve had lots of success helping students to reach their true potential, without nerves getting in the way!
After the test
PSAT tip #22: Learn from your testing experience
After the test, learn from your experience. How was the PSAT for you? What was harder than you expected? Did you feel nervous on the test or experience any test anxiety?
Only you can know how the test felt for you as an individual. This is very valuable information that can help you to prepare more effectively for the SAT and the ACT, which will be used for college admissions and scholarships!
A thoughtful tutor can help you to discuss your testing experience and think through customized strategies to improve on future tests.
PSAT tip #23: Use your PSAT results to start making a college list
Students typically receive PSAT results about six weeks after the testing date.
These PSAT results can be a powerful tool for making a college list. They’ll give some initial indications of where students might be a competitive applicant.
A balanced college list will always have a mix of safety schools, target schools, and reach schools. Read our detailed guidance on crafting a great college list here.

If your PSAT scores don’t show that you’re on track to be a competitive applicant to your dream schools, don’t worry! It’s definitely possible to improve your scores significantly with targeted practice and review. Schedule a free short educational consult to explore options for test prep.
PSAT tip #24: Use the PSAT to learn about scholarship opportunities
If you did well on the PSAT, be on the lookout for notifications about scholarship opportunities.
There’s an option on the PSAT to check a box that will allow colleges to view test scores through the Student Search Service. Students can select this on testing day or after the test.
These PSAT scores aren’t used for admissions purposes, so we recommend choosing this option as there’s nothing to lose. They’re shared with colleges and scholarship programs so that they can recruit students who might be a great fit. High-scoring students can get lots of fun mail and notices of scholarship opportunities!

Students who scored in the top 3% may qualify for recognition from the National Merit program, a prestigious honor that can come with big scholarships. These notifications are sent out in the fall of the student’s senior year, nearly a year after the PSAT testing date. Check out past National Merit score cutoffs here to see if your score might qualify.
PSAT tip #25: Use your PSAT results to plan your SAT prep
Your PSAT Score Report is full of great data that can help you to plan your SAT prep effectively. Experienced tutors will know how to interpret this information and can help students to craft a customized test-prep plan suited to their individual goals.
Students can also consider taking the ACT as well, which is the other admissions test. The ACT and SAT are similar but have some key differences, and many students try both tests to see which one will play better to their strengths.
Consider taking the SAT on the earlier side, since this can help to alleviate pressure on students — and give them more time to take the test multiple times if they want to improve their scores. In particular, we recommend avoiding the scheduling crunch of AP tests and semester finals that often happens in the late spring of junior year. Schedule a free short educational consult for more advice.
Next steps
Students can absolutely improve their PSAT scores with the right practice. We recommend downloading our 30-minute micro PSAT to get a taste of the PSAT first. Then get started with studying or set aside a three-hour block to try a full-length practice test.
There is some great free practice material available from the educational non-profit Khan Academy. Their platform is for the SAT, but students can use the same materials to prepare for the PSAT.
Regardless of what program you follow, it’s important to make sure that you’re preparing for the correct version of the PSAT!
If you’re taking the PSAT in fall 2023 (and the SAT from March 2024 onwards), you need to use the new digital SAT practice materials. The old paper SAT is going to be out of date!
Remember that if you’re a student who typically performs well on standardized tests (scoring in the top 5%), you’ll want to really focus on the PSAT — you’ve got a real chance of winning big scholarships through National Merit.

Whatever your goals, make a plan for how you’ll practice and strengthen your weak areas with targeted exercises and drills. By practicing with the right materials, we’ve seen students improve their PSAT and SAT scores significantly!
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What is the PSAT? A Princeton grad explains why this “practice” test can matter
Bonus Material: Try a sample of the new PSAT
The PSAT, or the "Preliminary SAT," is a standardized test taken by US students in the fall of their junior year, and sometimes in their sophomore year as well.
Many students don’t realize that the PSAT is a chance to win major scholarships! Students have won full-ride scholarships to college through scoring highly on the PSAT. Top scores can also help with admissions to highly competitive schools, like the Ivy League.
I was in the top 1% of scorers on the PSAT years ago, and this helped me win over $240,000 in academic scholarships offered by top schools like the University of Chicago. My PSAT score also helped me win admission to every college where I applied, including Ivy-League schools like Princeton. I'm sharing this information here because many families don't realize that the PSAT has the potential to significantly impact college options for students.
What is the PSAT, and how can high-performing students take advantage of its scholarship-winning potential? We’ll answer all your questions here.
Jump to section:
What is the PSAT?
What's on the PSAT?
How is the PSAT different from the SAT?
How is the PSAT scored?
Interpreting the PSAT score report
Does the PSAT matter?
How to use the PSAT to win scholarships through National Merit
What's a good score on the PSAT?
How to take the PSAT
Next steps
What is the PSAT?
Many people have heard of the SAT and the ACT. These are the two main standardized tests used to apply to colleges in the US. Both tests are accepted equally for admissions purposes at colleges and universities, and these days the tests are taken by roughly equal numbers of students. Read more about how the SAT and the ACT compare here, and how to convert SAT and ACT scores here.
(Wondering whether tests still matter with the new test-optional policies? Yes, tests still matter. Even if the schools on your list are now test-optional, at the vast majority of schools strong test scores will still help your chances of admissions, and can be used to qualify for scholarships or special programs.)
The PSAT/NMSQT, or Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test and National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, is the “practice” SAT.
Most students take the SAT in their junior or senior year of high school. Typically the peak time for SAT testing is in the spring of junior year, although testing earlier can make the process less stressful for students.
The PSAT, on the other hand, is taken in the fall of junior year. Some students might also take the PSAT the fall of their sophomore year, but this score cannot count for the National Merit competition.
High scores on the PSAT can earn students awards from the National Merit program: Commended, Semi-Finalists, Finalist, or Scholar. Students can win a variety of scholarships directly through this program, and many schools also award additional scholarships to National Merit students. Some schools even give automatic full-ride scholarships!

National Merit status is also a strong statement for college admissions, and many colleges compete to recruit these top students.
Because of this competition, the PSAT isn’t just a “practice” SAT — for top scorers, it’s also a chance to win big.
Download a 30-minute sample of the PSAT to try it out today!
What’s on the PSAT?
Like the SAT, the PSAT is designed to measure general college readiness. It has four sections covering reading comprehension, clear writing, grammar, and math.
The new digital PSAT
Big changes are coming to the SAT and the PSAT in the coming year. The College Board has launched a new version of the SAT, which will begin from March 2023 for international students and from March 2024 for students testing within the US.
Of course, the PSAT is the “preliminary” SAT, so the PSAT will change along with the SAT!
Students testing in fall 2023 will be the first to experience the new digital PSAT.
Old PSAT test format:
Section | Length (minutes) | Number of questions |
Reading | 60 | 47 |
Writing & Language | 35 | 44 |
Math | 70 | 48 |
This new digital PSAT will be significantly different. Several types of questions will change. As the name suggests, the test will be administered digitally using a tablet or laptop. In addition, the test will be adaptive, which means that the questions will adjust in difficulty to the student’s level. If the student performs more strongly, the test will give harder questions that will lead to a higher score.
That means that many published PSAT prep books and resources are now out-of-date. Students who are preparing for the PSAT should make sure that they are preparing for the 2023 version of the test!
(Some resources still call the version of the PSAT and SAT created in 2016 the “new” SAT, but that is now the “old” SAT.)
An experienced test prep tutor can help students make sure they’re practicing the correct version of the test and using the most up-to-date strategies.

Here, we’ll cover the subjects tested by the PSAT, describing the new digital PSAT.
Reading
One of the skillsets covered by the PSAT is reading comprehension and evidence-based reasoning. This is one of the areas of the test that will change most significantly with the new 2023 version.
On the new 2023 PSAT, students will find many short passages, each with one question about the purpose of the text, the use of particular vocabulary words in context, textual analysis, and so on. (This is different from the old PSAT, which presented long passages, each with 10–12 questions.)
Download a short sample of the test here.
Writing and Language
On the old PSAT, Reading and Writing & Language were two separate sections, the scores for which were then combined for half of the total SAT score.
On the new 2023 PSAT, all of the verbal content will be combined together in the new Reading & Writing sections. There will be two parts; the first will be of mixed difficulty, and then the second part will be easier or harder depending on how the student performed on the first part.
That means that students will encounter questions about grammar, clear writing, and the effective use of language alongside questions about reading comprehension and textual analysis.
Students will need to know how to use punctuation correctly and the rules of English grammar. They will also need to be able to select the “best” version of a sentence. Download our short sample of these questions here.
Math
The other half of the test comprises math questions from concepts typically learned in Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry. Some common types of problems feature linear functions, operations with exponents, quadratic functions, probability, trigonometry, and the geometry of angles, triangles, and circles.
Students will need to solve each problem in about one minute. To see a few examples of the hardest math questions, check out our detailed walkthrough of 16 challenging SAT math problems and try our quiz with 20 of the all-time hardest questions.
On the new digital PSAT, students will be allowed to use a calculator on all of the math questions. Like the verbal half of the test, the math portion will be adaptive; a student’s performance on the first half of the math questions will determine whether they receive an easier or harder set of questions in the second half.
Wondering what these PSAT questions look like? We’ve carefully created a short sample PSAT, which can be downloaded for free here.
How is the PSAT different from the SAT?
The SAT and the PSAT are two important tests made by the College Board, which also makes the AP tests that many students take each year in May to earn college credit for advanced coursework in high school. (High scores on AP tests are also a great way to demonstrate your academic achievements to colleges.)
The College Board also makes standardized tests for students starting in 8th grade. Some schools may use their full testing program:
8th grade | PSAT 8/9 | Taken in school, used to track student progress. |
9th grade | PSAT 8/9 | Taken in school, used to track student progress. |
10th grade | PSAT 10 | Taken in school in May, used to track student progress. The test is the same as the PSAT/NMSQT, but it can’t be used to qualify for the National Merit competition. |
11th grade | PSAT/NMSQT | Taken in school in October, used to track student progress and to compete for the National Merit competition. |
10th-12th grade | SAT | Used for college admission. Some students will take it in school, but many students also register individually and take it on a Saturday. |
9th-12th grade | AP subject tests | Advanced Placement tests (in May each year) can be taken to earn college credit and demonstrate advanced level for college applications |
The PSAT 8/9 and PSAT 10 are both used to track students’ progress towards college readiness. These tests are taken in school by roughly half of the nation’s students during the school day.
The PSAT is a little bit shorter and a little bit easier than the SAT, but otherwise it’s the same test with the same format. Many students find that it’s a useful tool for gauging their current level of preparation for the SAT.

In fact, PSAT scores can be used to guide the next stages of SAT prep. Our expert tutors routinely start SAT preparation by discussing a student’s performance on the PSAT. The PSAT can also be useful for uncovering issues with test anxiety that can lower a student’s scores compared to at-home practice. Knowing about these issues earlier can allow students and instructors time to build a roadmap for success and develop targeted strategies for SAT test day.
Only the SAT and the AP subject tests can be taken privately by students. The other earlier tests are organized by schools. If your school doesn’t use the PSAT 8/9 or PSAT 10, don’t worry! These tests aren’t used for scholarship applications or college admissions.
If your school doesn’t use these earlier tests, students may want to do additional preparation before the PSAT so that the test is familiar and students can feel confident. Schedule a free test-prep consultation with our team to learn more about what would be best for you or your student.
How is the PSAT scored?
The PSAT is scored similarly to the SAT, but with slightly lower numbers. The two sections, Math and Evidence-Based Reading & Writing, are each scored on a scale from 160–760. This means that a “perfect” PSAT score is 1520. (The SAT sections are scored from 200–800, so a perfect SAT score is 1600.)
The score will depend on how many questions students answer correctly. On the current PSAT, each correct answer on each section counts as one point towards a student’s raw score. The new digital PSAT launched in fall 2023 may calculate scores slightly differently — the College Board hasn’t yet announced the exact mechanics of how they will calculate scores with the new adaptive style of testing. On the new adaptive PSAT, higher-performing students will get a harder version of the test, so the scoring calculations will have to be more complex to take this into consideration.
On the PSAT, there are no penalties for incorrect answers. One strategic consequence of this is that students should never leave a question blank. Even if they’re completely stumped, it’s always strategic to guess!

Along with their PSAT score from 320 to 1520, students will also receive percentile rankings. The percentiles show how students performed compared to other students. For example, scoring in the 65th percentile means that a student scored better than 65% of other students.
Students will receive two different percentile rankings for their PSAT score. The first compares how students did to other students taking the PSAT. This tends to be a more competitive group of students, since students who are taking the test are more likely to be on a college track. The second percentile ranking (the “Nationally Representative Sample”) compares how students hypothetically performed compared to typical US students in their grade, regardless of whether they took the test.
Students will also receive subscores and cross-test scores that can provide additional insight into areas of strength and weakness.
The cross-test scores for Analysis in History/Social Studies and Analysis in Science range from 8 to 38. For example, the Analysis in Science subscore will indicate how well students can handle reading about science, analyzing graphs and charts about science, and solving math word problems about science.
The subscores range from 1 to 15 and indicate student abilities in specific areas like Command of Evidence, Words in Context, Expression of Ideas, Standard English Conventions, Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, and Passport to Advanced Math.
An experienced tutor will be able to help students use these PSAT subscores to develop a customized plan for SAT preparation. Because the SAT has the same subscores and types of questions, the PSAT can be a very helpful tool for crafting a roadmap for SAT practice. Our Ivy-League SAT tutors are experts in using this data to improve student success on the SAT.
The College Board will make sure that scores are scaled fairly across different testing dates. They use a process called “equating” to account for any slight differences in the test difficulty from year to year.
Interpreting the PSAT score report
The PSAT is administered in mid-October each year, and scores are typically available online by early December. (Check the College Board website for the exact date.) Students may also receive a paper copy of their scores in school or mailed home to their parents.
The online PSAT score reports will look like this:

The College Board uses a color-coded system indicate “college readiness” benchmarks:
- Green = meets or exceeds benchmark
- Yellow = approaching benchmark
- Red = needs to strengthen skills
These benchmarks indicate whether students have the basic skills to take and succeed in college coursework. They do not indicate the average PSAT test scores or a competitive PSAT score for scholarship competitions, but they’re a good starting place.

Students will also be able to view benchmarks for each section and each subscore of the PSAT. These are very useful tools for SAT prep, so make sure to share this information with your SAT tutor!
Because the PSAT scores give a rough approximation of how a student might do on the SAT without any further study, students can use their PSAT scores to begin crafting a balanced college list of colleges where they would be a competitive applicant. If their scores aren’t high enough for the colleges where they want to apply, then students will know to spend more effort preparing for the SAT.
Does the PSAT matter?
It depends!
For the majority of students, it’s fine for the PSAT to simply be a “practice” SAT. In and of itself, the PSAT is not used for college admissions, and colleges will not see PSAT scores.
It’s a good chance for students to get familiar with the test structure and question types they’ll see on the SAT. A PSAT score also lets students know approximately what scores they’ll achieve on the SAT at their current level of preparedness, and make test prep plans accordingly.
Taking practice tests is a cornerstone of test prep, and the PSAT is a chance to take a “practice SAT” that includes the features of a real test day — the nerves, the small distractions in the room, the official forms at the beginning of the test, and so on. That makes it a great trial run for the SAT, which is a key component of college admissions!
Students can also elect to make their PSAT scores visible to college recruiters. Students who score well will start receiving lots of college brochures in the mail, which can be fun and motivating. In this way, students may also learn about specific programs or scholarships that appeal to them.

However, for a small number of students, the PSAT can matter much more. This is because the PSAT is also the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program. The National Merit Program gives scholarships to top students across the US. To qualify for recognition, students need to be in at least the top 3% of scorers for recognition, with competition for most awards limited to the top 1%.
For this reason, if students are typically in roughly the top 5% of whichever annual standardized tests they take through their school, it can be worth it to take the PSAT more seriously! The National Merit awards are widely known and can be a big boost for college admissions, in addition to the monetary value of the prizes.
If you’re not sure if you’re likely to be a National Merit contender, try taking a practice PSAT or practice SAT. If your initial scores are in 95th percentile or above, then yes, you should definitely take the junior-year PSAT seriously.

In addition to college scholarships, the PSAT may be relevant to admission to private high schools. Some elite prep schools (like Phillips Exeter Academy or the Hotchkiss School) also use the PSAT as an alternative to the SSAT or ISEE for admission to grades 11–12 or a postgraduate year.
For students who want to spend the last year or two of high school at a prep school, it can be much more convenient to use the PSAT compared to the SSAT or ISEE. Not only are PSAT study materials much more widely available than for the SSAT or ISEE prep school admissions tests, but any PSAT preparation will also prepare students directly for the SAT.
How to use the PSAT to win scholarships through National Merit
As we’ve mentioned several times now, one of the main reasons why students want to succeed on the PSAT is to win recognition through the National Merit competition.
The National Merit Scholarship Program is one of the most widely-known and prestigious scholarship competitions in the US.
Administered by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, a private, not-for-profit organization, the National Merit Program recognizes high-achieving students across the country.
The contest begins in the fall of a student’s junior year, when they take the PSAT through their high school. Approximately 1.5 million 11th grade students take the PSAT and, by doing so, automatically enter the National Merit Scholarship Competition.
(Note that while some students may take the PSAT as a sophomore, 10th-grade scores are not eligible for the National Merit competition.)

The following year (in September of their senior year), 34,000 students across the country receive a Letter of Commendation recognizing high achievement on the PSAT. These students scored in approximately the 97th or 98th percentile on the PSAT. Commended students are not eligible to continue on in the competition, but this is a great award to include in college applications, and they may be eligible for some special scholarships provided by corporate and business sponsors.
At the same time, 16,000 students are notified that they have achieved Semifinalist status. These are the very highest scorers in each state, roughly the 99th percentile of students taking the PSAT.
The 16,000 Semifinalists are then invited to submit applications for the National Merit Scholarships. These applications are a little like college applications: they include high school transcripts / GPA, extracurriculars, and an essay. Semifinalist students also need to be nominated by their schools as strong students and members of their community.
In February of their senior year, 15,000 of the Semifinalists advance to Finalist status. This is an amazing achievement, and is a definite boost on college applications!
Finally, roughly half of the Finalists are awarded scholarships and become National Merit Scholarship winners. There are three types of scholarships:
- The 2,500 highest-achieving students are awarded a one-time prize of $2,500 directly from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
- More scholarships are awarded by approximately 340 different corporate sponsors. In order to be eligible for one of these, typically a student has to both be a Finalist and also have a parent who is employed by one of the sponsors. The prizes range from $2,500 to $5,000 one-time or $1,000 to $10,000 annually.
- Many colleges and universities will also offer a scholarship to students who are both admitted and also achieve Finalist status. Prizes range from $500 to $2,000 annually.

Of course, these are only the scholarships that are offered via the National Merit Program. There are many other colleges that offer larger scholarships to National Merit Finalists. Schools tend to compete to see how many of the National Merit Finalists they can attract, and some will even offer full-ride scholarships or guaranteed admission to National Merit students.
Some schools offering full-ride scholarships to National Merit students include:
- University of Texas at Dallas — in addition to free tuition, UT Dallas also gives National Merit students room and board, a $4,000 per semester stipend, and a one-time $6,000 stipend for international study
- Florida International University — their international business program is ranked #2 in the nation
- University of Alabama — full tuition for five years for undergraduate and graduate studies, four years of on-campus housing, a $3,500 annual stipend for four years, $2,000 for summer research or international study, and $2000 book scholarship
- University of Oklahoma — full tuition for five years (undergraduate and graduate), $5,500 freshman housing scholarship, $5,500 annually for fees, books, room and board, $5,000 cash stipend, $1,000 technology and textbook stipend, $1,000 research and study abroad stipend
- Fordham University
- University of Maine
- Oklahoma State University — they offer free tuition for five years, a $5,500-per-year scholarship for room and board, and $19,000 in additional scholarships
- University of South Florida
- Washington State University
- University of New Mexico
While most scholarships are only available to National Merit Finalists, some scholarships may also be awarded to National Merit Commended Students!

In short, for high-achieving students there can be a lot of money on the line with the PSAT! And while schools like Harvard or Stanford might not offer scholarship money for National Merit (in fact, there are no merit scholarships at Harvard and the other Ivies), it will definitely help with admissions.
That’s why we advise students in the 95th percentile and above to take it seriously. If that might apply to you, set up a free test prep consultation with our team.
What’s a good score on the PSAT?
The definition of a “good” PSAT score is subjective, really.
Each section on the PSAT is scored on a scale from 160–760. This means that a “perfect” PSAT score is 1520: 760 Math and 760 Evidence-Based Reading & Writing, are each scored
The College Board has set “benchmarks” to college readiness for each of their tests. For the PSAT/NMSQT, those numbers are 460 for Reading & Writing and 510 for Math. Students need to hit those benchmarks in order to be “ready” for college.
According to 2020–21 data, the average PSAT score in the US is slightly higher than those benchmarks, or 1010 (source).
The cutoff score for National Merit Commended status varies each year, but generally students need to score about 1400.
(Note: the National Merit Scholarship Corporation compares your PSAT scores with those of other students in your state using its own Selection Index, which falls on a scale between 48 and 228. This is calculated by adding each of the three section scores (Math, Reading, and Writing) together and then multiplying by 2. The upshot of this is that your Math score counts less in the eyes of National Merit than it does for your straight-up PSAT or SAT score, where your Reading and Writing scores are averaged. Yes, we know it’s confusing. We’re going to just talk about PSAT scores here, but read here for more about the Selection Index cutoff scores for each state.)
The cutoff score for National Merit Semifinalist status depends on the state. To be competitive for National Merit Semifinalist status, students need to score about 1400 on the PSAT in less competitive states like Wyoming, Montana, and North Dakota . . . or about 1470 on the PSAT in more competitive states like Connecticut or New Jersey. Check out the cutoff scores for each state here.
A PSAT score is a good predictor of a student’s SAT score if they don’t do any further studying or preparation.
In order to be a competitive applicant for the Ivy League, students will need SAT scores of at least 1450: higher than 730 Math and higher than 710 Reading & Writing.

If we broaden that list to the top 50 colleges and universities in the US, students need SAT scores of 1390 (700 Math and 690 Reading & Writing) to be competitive.
Learn more about average SAT scores at different schools here.
If your PSAT score still falls below those cutoff scores, don’t worry! It’s absolutely possible to raise your scores through studying and practice. We find that most of our students see a score raise of 100–300 points on the PSAT and SAT after working with our tutors.
How to take the PSAT
Whereas the SAT can be taken most months of the year, the PSAT is only offered once a year in mid-October.
The PSAT is taken through the student’s school, and there’s often no cost to students since fees are paid by the schools.
Students typically register for the PSAT through their school.
It’s possible for homeschooled students to sign up for the PSAT at a nearby school; families should contact the school at least four months in advance to register.
Next steps
Download a sample of the new PSAT to try out the PSAT with the new style of questions (launching fall 2023)!
Then make a plan for PSAT preparation. If you’re an ambitious student who often scores in the top 5% on standardized tests, you’ll want to take the PSAT seriously, since you have a serious chance of winning impressive scholarships.
If you’re not in the top 5%, you can approach the PSAT more like a practice SAT — but you still may want to prepare for it so it’s a positive experience, and so that you can get the most out of the practice.
Because the PSAT is nearly the same as the SAT, any prep for the PSAT also prepares students for the SAT.

If you’ve already taken the PSAT, know that it’s absolutely possible to raise your score on the SAT with the right practice and preparation!
A PSAT or SAT tutor can introduce the test format and de-mystify the test for students and families. A good tutor will make sure that students are using the best available resources for studying and practice.
A good tutor takes a lot of the stress out of the PSAT and SAT process and makes sure students are practicing effectively. Tutors can provide students with targeted study materials and guide students in using them correctly.
In addition, there are many strategies and tricks that can make the test easier. Unlike some self-directed courses and books, a good PSAT and SAT tutor can share these tricks with students and guide them through implementing test strategies.
Students who achieve their goal score earlier in high school can relax and not worry about testing at the end of their junior year (the most important year for academic transcripts, and when many students are focused on AP tests) or in the beginning of their senior year, when most students are working on college essays.
To be matched with the perfect-fit tutor and start one-on-one PSAT and SAT tutoring today, set up a quick free consultation with our team.
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The 12 Best SAT Prep Courses for 2022
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Average SAT Scores: The Latest Data
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Bonus Material: Try a sample of the new PSAT
12 Free Official SAT Practice Tests (Including Digital SATs)
The College Board has released 8 official SAT practice tests since they've redesigned the test in 2016. You can find these tests on their website, in their Official SAT Study Guide (paid), or right here down below.
However, they've also just redesigned a brand new SAT format that will start in the Spring of 2024. There are only four official practice tests in the new format, and these tests can only properly be done and scored through the College Board's BlueBook app.
Because of the scarcity of real SAT questions, these tests are like gold.
When using one of these tests as a diagnostic or full-length practice test, mimic official test conditions as closely as possible. This means printing the test out, timing yourself, and taking it in one sitting. This will ensure you’ll get the most value out of these tests.
Below you'll find everything to get you going: official practice tests, blank answer sheets, and instructions on how to self-administer the test.
Official Old SAT Practice Tests - Download Links
→ SAT Practice Test #1 - Practice Test 1 | Essay 1 | Scoring 1 | Answers & Explanations 1
→ SAT Practice Test #3 - Practice Test 3 | Essay 3 | Scoring 3 | Answers & Explanations 3
→ SAT Practice Test #5 - Practice Test 5 | Essay 5 | Scoring 5 | Answers & Explanations 5
→ SAT Practice Test #6 - Practice Test 6 | Essay 6 | Scoring 6 | Answers & Explanations 6
→ SAT Practice Test #7 - Practice Test 7 | Essay 7 | Scoring 7 | Answers & Explanations 7
→ SAT Practice Test #8 - Practice Test 8 | Essay 8 | Scoring 8 | Answers & Explanations 8
→ SAT Practice Test #9 - Practice Test 9 | Essay 9 | Scoring 9 | Answers & Explanations 9
→ SAT Practice Test #10 - Practice Test 10 | Essay 10 | Scoring 10 | Answers & Explanations 10
Official New Digital SAT Practice Tests - Links
→ The new, adaptive Digital SAT Practice Tests 1-4: Tests and Instructions here
→ Paper versions of the new Digital SAT Practice Tests 1-4 (not adaptive): Tests and Instructions here
Blank Answer Sheets
Use the answer sheet below when completing your test to mimic the test conditions:
→ Blank Answer Sheet - Sections 1 to 4
Proctoring Instructions for the Paper SAT
With the Digital SAT, the official BlueBook app will do all the proctoring for you!
When working with the old paper SAT, however, a parent or third-party person should administer the test. Otherwise, the student can easily manage the process on their own using our proctoring instructions.
It's surprisingly difficult to find simple instructions on how to self-administer the test, so we've put together a checklist to guide you through the process:
→ PrepMaven Proctoring Instructions - SAT
5 Tips
- Set aside an uninterrupted chunk of time - Block off 2 hours and 14 minutes for the new Digital SAT.
- Use the official BlueBook app for the Digital SAT - The test is going digital, and this app will exactly mirror real testing conditions.
- Use all the time - Even if you finish a section early, you will benefit from using all your available time to review or redo questions.
- Read the Proctoring Instructions above before you start - The instructions will identify which materials you will need and exactly how to time the different sections, including breaks.
- Carefully review your answers after the test - Careful analysis of the questions you answered wrong (or were confused about) is important for meaningful score improvements
Not sure which test to take (SAT vs ACT)? Ask yourself these 5 questions to find out.
Not sure WHEN to take the test? We created 9 Sample Testing Schedules to help get you started
Next Steps
Like what you read? Subscribe to our mailing list, and we’ll let you know when we release other useful info. Please also share using the buttons on the side.
At PrepMaven, our mission is not only to help your child get into a great college but also to put them on the right track for long-term personal and professional success.
Greg Wong and Kevin Wong
Greg and Kevin are brothers and the co-founders of PrepMaven and Princeton Tutoring. They were engineering majors at Princeton and had successful careers in strategy consulting and finance. They now apply their data and research-backed problem solving skills to the college preparation process. Their unique approach places a heavy emphasis on personal development, character, and service as key components of college admissions success.
How to Proctor Your Own SAT Practice Test
Practice SAT Proctoring Instructions
Official SAT Practice Tests released by the College Board are like gold.
When using an official test as a diagnostic or practice test, mimic official test conditions as closely as possible. This means timing the test and taking it in one sitting. This will ensure you’ll get the most value out of these tests.
Not sure how to take the test? Follow the simple instructions below:
Who Should Proctor?
Ideally, a parent or friend should proctor the test. Otherwise, the student can self-proctor.
Before The Test:
- Print out a diagnostic test or use one of the tests from the Official SAT Book.
- Print out an answer sheet
- Official SAT diagnostic tests and answer sheets available here
- Set aside 3 hours and 10 minutes of uninterrupted time.
Testing Instructions:
- Proctor will provide student with test and answer sheets.
- The student may not start until you tell them to start
Section 1 - Reading
- Set timer for 65 minutes
- Tell student to start on Section 1
Break - 10 minutes
Section 2 - Writing
- Set timer for 35 minutes
- Tell student to start on Section 2
Section 3 - Math (No Calculator)
- Set timer for 25 minutes
- Tell student to start on Section 3
Break - 5 minutes
Section 4 - Math (Calculator allowed)
- Set timer for 55 minutes
- Tell student to start on Section 4
Additional Notes
- The student must work within each section of the test only for the time allotted
- The student may not go back to a section once that section has ended
- The student may not go ahead to a new section if the student finishes a section early
Considering the ACT? Check out ACT proctoring instructions here.
Not sure which test to take (SAT vs ACT)? Ask yourself these 5 questions to find out.
Not sure WHEN to take the test? We created 9 Sample Testing Schedules to help get you started
Greg Wong and Kevin Wong
Greg and Kevin are brothers and the co-founders of PrepMaven and Princeton Tutoring. They are Princeton engineering graduates with over 20 years of education experience. They apply their data and research-backed problem solving skills to the college preparation and test prep process. Their unique approach places a heavy emphasis on personal development, character, and service as key components of college admissions success.
NYU Summer Programs for High School Students
NYU Summer Programs for High School Students
Bonus Material: PrepMaven's 2022 Summer Calendar
NYU has a wide variety of summer programs for high school students, especially those looking to deepen their interests in the arts, engineering, media, language, and scholarship.
We’ve compiled all of the current NYU summer programs for high schoolers (2022) in this post, including application and session details. We’ve organized these 20+ programs by the following interests:
- Pre-College
- Arts & Humanities
- STEM
- Other Summer Programs
You’ll also find information about NYU academic year programs and NYU middle school summer programs at the end of this post.
If you’re eager for more, students and parents are welcome to attend virtual information sessions for high school summer programs at NYU or request more information.
We've also added NYU's summer programs to our Summer 2022 Calendar, a growing list of summer programs for competitive college applicants in one easy-to-use spreadsheet. Grab it below.
Here’s what we cover:
- NYU Summer Programs for High School Students
- NYU Summer Programs for Middle School Students
- NYU Academic Year Programs
- Bonus: PrepMaven's Summer 2022 Calendar
NYU Summer Programs for High School Students: Pre-College
There are currently 4 summer programs at NYU that emphasize pre-college or pre-professional skills:
- NYU Pre-College
- High School Academy - Career Edge
- NYU CALI
- High School Academy - Aspire

NYU Pre-College Summer Program
With NYU Pre-College, 10th and 11th graders essentially become NYU students for a six-week period over the summer. Participants earn college credits (two classes' worth), connect with NYU faculty and students, and get oriented for college!
Students also have the option to attend the following as NYU Pre-College participants
- A non-credit College Writing Workshop led by NYU faculty to learn college writing skills, including research
- College 101 workshop series
- Other special summer programs (Summer Journalism @ NYU, and Summer @ Stern)
- Other events and activities with the NYU pre-college community
Here are some other important program details:
- Program Cost: $5,000-$15,000
- Program Length: 6 weeks, July 6, 2022 - August 17, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: June 24, 2022
- Online/in-person: In-person
Scholarships are available -- the deadline to apply for one is April 1, 2022
NYU High School Academy - Career Edge
With Career Edge, high school students can get ready for college and get a taste for the professional world through one-week summer intensives at NYU. Participants have the chance to explore possible career paths and get a feel for life as a college student on campus.
- Program Cost: $1,495
- Program Length: 1 week, 4 sessions to choose from
- Session 1: June 27 - July 1
- Session 2: July 11 - 15
- Session 3: July 18 - 22
- Session 4: July 25 - 29
- Regular Application Deadline: June 1, 2022
- Online/in-person: In-person

NYU College Access Leadership Institute (CALI)
The NYU College Access Leadership Institute offers high school students a week-long summer intensive that demystifies the components of the college admissions process.
CALI is led by NYU admissions officers, and it gives 10th and 11th graders thorough insight into building a college list, standardized tests, college essay writing, and more. CALI participants also can apply to NYU as seniors for free!
Here are some other important program details:
- Program Cost: Free to accepted applicants
- Program Length: 1 week, July 11-15
- Regular Application Deadline: May 5, 2022
- Online/in-person: Will be online for summer 2022
NYU High School Academy - Aspire
Current sophomores enrolled in a New York City high school are eligible to apply for the NYU High School Academy Aspire program, which prepares students from underrepresented communities to become first-generation college students.
Accepted participants take part in a one-week summer intensive and then receive 2 years of college mentoring in support.
- Program Cost: Free (full scholarship awarded to accepted applicants)
- Program Length: 1 week each summer // 2 years of support
- Priority Application Deadline: the Aspire program is not offered for the 2022-23 academic year
- Online/in-person: N/A

NYU Summer Programs for High School Students: Arts & Humanities
There are currently 7 options for high school students wishing to pursue an NYU arts summer program:
- Tisch School of the Arts Summer Residential
- Filmmakers Workshop
- Screenwriters Workshop
- Music and Performing Arts Professions (MPAP)
- NYU High School Summer Art Intensive
- NYU Virtual Art Program
- Urban Journalism Workshop
The Summer Residential
High school students who participate in the Tisch School of the Arts Summer Residential have a fantastic opportunity to earn actual credits while exploring a wide range of arts over four weeks:
- Acting
- Dance
- Design
- Dramatic writing
- Filmmaking
- Game Design
- Photography and imaging
- Production and design
- Recorded music
The Summer Residential is based on Tisch undergraduate curriculum and culminates in 4-6 college credits. It's open to 10th and 11th graders.
Here are some important program details:
- Program Cost: $12,000-$13,000
- Program Length: 4 weeks
- Regular Application Deadline: January 12, 2022
- Online/in-person: In-person
Online Filmmakers Workshop
Are you an aspiring filmmaker? You won't want to miss the Tisch School of the Arts Online Filmmakers Workshop, which gives high school students a chance to experience aspects of the Kanbar Institute of Film and Television degree program over a 6-week period.
Participants do earn credit for the work they complete, and this workshop is open to 9th-12th graders.
- Program Cost: $7,065
- Program Length: 6 weeks, July 11 - August 5
- Regular Application Deadline: May 25, 2022
- Online/in-person: Will be online for summer 2022
Online Screenwriters Workshop
Screenwriters, unite! With this workshop through Tisch, participants learn screenwriting fundamentals and create a short screenplay under the direction of Tisch faculty. 9th-12th graders earn credit for the work they complete over this six-week workshop.
- Program Cost: $7,065
- Program Length: 6 weeks, July 11 - August 5
- Regular Application Deadline: May 25, 2022
- Online/in-person: Will be online for summer 2022

Music and Performing Arts Professions (MPAP)
High school students who are passionate about music and/or the performing arts will find a lot to choose from through MPAP, summer programs offered by NYU Steinhardt. From piano to music technology intensives, there's something for every performer.
Find the full list of options here.
- Program Cost: $1,200 - $5,000
- Program Length: 1 week, 2 week, 3 week, or 4 week
- Regular Application Deadline: Depends on specific program
- Online/in-person: Depends on specific program, but most are in-person in 2022
NYU High School Summer Art Intensive
Participants in the NYU High School Summer Art Intensive will get a taste for what it's like to be an NYU art student over a period of 4 weeks in the summer. Sign up for studio and non-studio art courses (non-credit), and enhance your creative skills through an immersive campus experience.
- Program Cost: $6,850
- Program Length: 4 weeks, July 10 - August 6, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: May 1, 2022
- Online/in-person: In-person
NYU Virtual Art Program
Very similar to the NYU Summer Art Intensive, this virtual program gives aspiring artists the chance to take three core classes and two elective classes led by NYU faculty and graduates of the Art and Art Professions Department, all online.
- Program Cost: $3,000
- Program Length: 4 weeks, July 10 - August 6, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: May 1, 2022; applications received after this date are reviewed on a rolling basis
- Online/in-person: Online
Urban Journalism Workshop
Aspiring journalists have the opportunity to participate in a rigorous boot-camp over 10 days in the company of 20 other high school students. During the NYU Urban Journalism Workshop, you'll receive NYU faculty instruction, produce your own stories, and gain valuable insight into the college admissions process.
- Program Cost: Free to admitted applicants
- Program Length: 10 days, July 18-27, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: April 25, 2022
- Online/in-person: In-person

NYU Summer Programs for High School Students: STEM
High school students have 9 STEM-related summer programs to choose from at NYU for 2022.
- ARISE
- NYU GSTEM
- Science and Technology Entry Program
- Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences Summer Math Program for Young Scholars
- Coding for Game Design
- Machine Learning (Tandon)
- XR Through Virtual Worlds (Tandon)
- Connected Devices (Tandon)
- Computer Science for Cybersecurity (Tandon)
Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE)
ARISE caters to academically motivated students in the STEM field from underrepresented communities, giving participants an immersive experience in the world of civil and urban engineering, robotics, and mechanical and electrical engineering. Students also receive college admissions guidance and a stipend for completing the program.
- Program Cost: Free to admitted applicants
- Program Length: 7 weeks, June 28 - August 13, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: March 1, 2022
- Online/in-person: Online and in-person mix for 2022

NYU GSTEM
Looking to take a deep dive into STEM in an inclusive environment? NYU GSTEM allows students historically underrepresented in the sciences to work alongside researchers and develop skillsets and a peer network they need to succeed in a future STEM-based career path.
- Program Cost: $4,500
- Program Length: 6 weeks, July 5 - August 12, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: April 18, 2022
- Online/in-person: In person
Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP)
NYC high school students seeking a pre-college STEM-based enrichment program shouldn't overlook STEP, designed to encourage historically underrepresented minority groups in STEM-related fields. STEP includes both academic year and summer sessions.
- Program Cost: $350 (waivers available)
- Program Length: 5 weeks, July 5 - August 4, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: March 5, 2022
- Online/in-person: In-person
Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences Summer Math Program for Young Scholars
With NYU's Summer Math Program for Young Scholars, participants have a chance to experience college-level math, graph theory, combinatorics, and other concepts with academically motivated peers.
- Program Cost: $1,300 (financial aid available)
- Program Length: 3 weeks, August 8 - 26, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: May 1, 2022
- Online/in-person: Will be online for summer 2022

Coding for Game Design
NYU's Consortium for Research and Evaluation of Advanced Technologies in Education (CREATE) brings aspiring game designers a 2-week coding summer program at NYU. Participants learn about Unity, game design principles, and how to code their own games. This is a non-credit summer program.
- Program Cost: $2,448
- Program Length: 2 weeks, 3 sessions to choose from
- Session 1: June 21 - July 2
- Session 2: July 12 - 23
- Session 3: August 2 - 13
- Regular Application Deadline: May 31, 2022
- Online/in-person: In-person or online
Machine Learning Program (Tandon)
High school students passionate about machine learning have the opportunity to deepen their interest and skill set through the Tandon School's Machine Learning non-credit summer program. Experience over 50 instructional hours delivered by NYU Tandon School of Engineering faculty and graduate students.
This program is designed for "academically prepared, highly motivated" students who have successfully completed Algebra 2 or an equivalent course.
- Program Cost: $2,100
- Program Length: 2 weeks, 3 sessions to choose from
- Session 1: June 21 - July 2, 2022
- Session 2: July 11 - 22, 2022
- Session 3: August 1 - August 12, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: May 31, 2022 (rolling basis)
- Online/in-person: In-person
XR Through Virtual Worlds (Tandon)
With the Tandon School of Engineering's XR Through Virtual Worlds summer program, high school students take a deep dive into the realm of augmented reality. Learn what it takes to become an AR storyteller through over 50 non-credit instructional hours delivered by NYU faculty and graduate students.
- Program Cost: $2,100
- Program Length: 2 weeks, 3 sessions to choose from
- Session 1: June 21 - July 2, 2022
- Session 2: July 11 - 22, 2022
- Session 3: August 1 - August 12, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: May 31, 2022 (rolling basis)
- Online/in-person: In-person
Connected Devices (Tandon)
The third Tandon School summer program offering is Connected Devices, participants learn what it takes to build a device connected to the internet. Open to 8th through 11th graders, this program is suited for academically driven, highly motivated students curious about the Internet of Things revolution.
- Program Cost: $2,200
- Program Length: 2 weeks, 3 sessions to choose from
- Session 1: June 21 - July 2, 2022
- Session 2: July 11 - 22, 2022
- Session 3: August 1 - August 12, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: May 31, 2022 (rolling basis)
- Online/in-person: In-person
Tandon School's Computer Science for Cybersecurity (CS4CS)
At CS4CS, high school students gain a solid introduction to cybersecurity and computer science. This program is designed to empower young engineers who have historically faced underrepresentation in STEM sciences.
- Program Cost: Free to admitted applicants
- Program Length: 3 weeks, July 11 - July 29, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: April 13, 2022
- Online/in-person: In-person

NYU Summer Programs: Other
Bronfam Center for Jewish Student Life: Summer Excelerator
10th-12th graders experience a unique internship and leadership development program with the Bronfam Summer Excelerator. Acquire entrepreneurial skills and professional experience to bolster your resume and build a robust peer network.
- Program Cost: interns receive a $500 stipend
- Program Length: 6 weeks, June 27 - August 3, 2022
- Regular Application Deadline: May 2, 2022
- Online/in-person: In-person
NYU Summer Programs for Middle School Students
Middle school students have a chance to experience NYU through the following summer programs:
- Creativity in Engineering, Science, and Technology (CrEST)
- Sounds of New York City (SONYC)
- Science of Smart Cities (SoSC)
- Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP)
- NYU College & Career Lab
- Girls Electronic Music Stars (GEMS)
NYU Academic Year Programs
High school students can also experience aspects of NYU during the academic year. Here’s a list of NYU academic year programs for high schoolers:
- NYU Pre-College
- Collegiate Seminar Program
- High School Academy - Weekend Workshops
- Tisch School of the Arts - Future Artists Programs
- Tisch Online High School Filmmakers Workshop
- Tisch Online High School Screenwriters Workshop
- Visionary Studio Saturday Art Workshop
- XR Through Virtual Worlds
- Machine Learning
- Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP)
- NYU College of Dentistry's Saturday Academy

Download PrepMaven's 2022 Summer Calendar
High school students have a lot to choose from when it comes to NYU summer programs this 2022. That's why we created PrepMaven's FREE Summer Calendar, which compiles competitive summer programs for high school students in one easy-to-use spreadsheet.
Here's what you'll get:
- An organized list of NYU Summer Programs for 2022
- Additional summer programs for 2022, including Princeton summer programs
- Session start and end dates
- Relevant links
Greg Wong and Kevin Wong
Greg and Kevin are brothers and the co-founders of PrepMaven and Princeton Tutoring. They are Princeton engineering graduates with over 20 years of education experience. They apply their data and research-backed problem solving skills to the college preparation and test prep process. Their unique approach places a heavy emphasis on personal development, character, and service as key components of college admissions success.
8 Harvard Summer Programs for High School Students
8 Harvard Summer Programs for High School Students
Bonus Material:PrepMaven's Summer Calendar
Every summer, Harvard hosts a handful of summer programs for high school students. Such programs give participants an opportunity to experience Harvard's campus, pre-college life, and exceptional academics.
Some of these programs will be online for 2022, but many are still up and running.
We've compiled all of the current Harvard summer programs for high school students in this post, including application and session details.
We've also added Harvard's high school summer programs to our free Summer 2022 Calendar, a growing list of summer programs at elite U.S. institutions like NYU and Princeton in one easy-to-use spreadsheet. Grab it below!
Here's what we cover:
Harvard Summer Programs for High School Students
Harvard offers three dedicated summer programs for high school students every year. These programs are sponsored by the university and, when held in-person, are on campus.
- Harvard Pre-College Program
- Harvard Secondary School Program
- Harvard Academies @ Home
Note: Harvard University emphasizes that attendance of these programs does not guarantee admission to Harvard. However, "attending Harvard Summer School and performing well will strengthen your application to any college or university. Additionally, the Secondary School Program offers many opportunities designed to help you navigate the college application process, gain admission to the college of your choice, and enhance your performance in a college setting."

Harvard's Pre-College Program
High school students seeking an immersive summer enrichment program can participate in Harvard's Pre-College Program. This program is well-suited for academically driven, mature high school students. Over the course of 2 weeks, pre-college participants take one non-credit course and engage in a wide variety of co-curricular activities with their peers.
At the end of the program, students receive a written evaluation from instructors, which can be an excellent supplement to their college applications.
Students choose from 30 courses, which span the following categories:
- Business and Leadership
- STEAM
- Race, Gender, and Ethics
- Speech, Writing, and Literature
- Psychology, Medicine, and Public Health
- Law, Politics, Philosophy, and History
Find the full course catalog here.
- Program Cost: $4,950 + $75 application fee (limited scholarships available)
- Program Length: 2 weeks, 3 sessions to choose from
- Session 1: June 26-July 8
- Session 2: July 10-July 22
- Session 3: July 24-August 5
- Application Deadline: May 11, 2022
- Online/in-person: Will be in-person for summer 2022

The Secondary School Program
For high school students seeking a longer summer enrichment program, consider Harvard's flexible, 7-week Secondary School Program. Program participants choose from over 200 courses and earn college credit for the classes they take, which are led by Harvard faculty.
Many of the Secondary School Program's courses emphasize career pathways, giving students a chance to pinpoint what they want to study in college. Participants get access to advising services to ensure they're signing up for the best courses given their individual interests.
2022 career pathway courses span the following categories:
- Animal Transgenesis: A Laboratory Primer on Genetics
- Becoming a Brain Scientist: Neuroscience and Psychology Research
- Basic Journalism in the Digital Age
- Connecting to the World Through Chemistry
- Introduction to Entrepreneurship
- Problem Solving and Project Design
- Start-Ups from the Perspective of Business and IP Law
Find the full course catalog here.
- Program Cost: $3,300–$13,200 + $75 non-refundable application fee (financial aid awards available)
- Program Length: 7 weeks, June 18 - August 6, 2022
- Application Deadlines: January 26 (early) // March 2 (regular) // May 11 (late rolling)
- Online/in-person: Both online and in-person are available for 2022

Harvard Academies @ Home
The Harvard Academies give high school students a chance to learn from Harvard undergraduate instructors. Through rigorous curriculum and hands-on experience, Academies participants can take a deep dive into academic subjects that interest them. In 2022, both online and on-campus options are available.
Academies participants seeking an on-campus experience in 2022 can choose between Business, Coding, and Pre-Medical studies. Online offerings also include Pre-Law and Politics. The program is designed to connect high school students with mentors who are current Harvard undergraduate students.
Business Academy
With Harvard's Business Academy, participants learn everything they need to know about launching their very own business. From brainstorming ideas to creating a business plan, program attendants explore all steps in the entrepreneurial timeline. Participants pitch their business at the end of the program.
- Program Cost: $400 online // $800 in-person
- Program Length: 5 days, multiple session dates
- Application Deadline: Registration Ongoing
- Online/in-person: Online or in-person
Business Consulting Academy
Understand what it takes to be a successful business consultant at Harvard's Business Consulting Academy. Learn the ins and outs of market sizing, mergers and acquisitions, profit and loss, and much more over the course of two weekends. Participants will also analyze Harvard Business School case studies.
- Program Cost: $400
- Program Length: 5 days, multiple session dates
- Application Deadline: Registration Ongoing
- Online/in-person: Online
Coding Academy
Through Harvard's Coding Academies, participants learn either the fundamentals of coding (Coding Level 1) or foundations in web development (Coding Level 2). Come away proficient in Python (Level 1) and React (Level 2).
- Program Cost: $400 for Level 1 online // $450 for Level 2 online // $800 for Level 1 in-person
- Program Length: 5 days, multiple session dates
- Application Deadline: Registration Ongoing
- Online/in-person: Online or in-person
Politics Academy
The Politics Academy @ Home offers high school students interested in politics a deep dive into this subject's core principles, including theory, campaign management, and international relations. Students collaborate with peers on a policy project, and the program culminates in presentations of this research.
- Program Cost: $400
- Program Length: 5 days, multiple session dates
- Application Deadline: Registration Ongoing
- Online/in-person: Online

Pre-Law Academy
High school students who are passionate about law will find much to love about Harvard's Pre-Law Academy. Examine landmark U.S. court cases, due process of law, and what it takes to prepare for the LSAT and beyond. Acquire the skills you need to become a pre-law student.
- Program Cost: $400
- Program Length: 5 days, multiple session dates
- Application Deadline: Registration Ongoing
- Online/in-person: Online
Pre-Med Academy
Considering a pre-med track in college? Harvard's Pre-Med Academy gives high school students passionate about medicine a thorough introduction to pre-med curriculum (Level 1) and emergency room patient care (Level 2). The Level 1 Academy also introduces students to the MCAT process.
- Program Cost: $400 for Level 1 online // $450 for Level 2 online // $800 for Level 1 in-person // $850 for Level 2 in-person
- Program Length: 5 days, multiple session dates
- Application Deadline: Registration Ongoing
- Online/in-person: Online or in-person

Download PrepMaven's Summer Calendar
High school students have a lot to choose from when it comes to summer programs this 2022, both online and in-person. Given that college applications often ask students how they've spent their high school summers, these programs can be fantastic means of filling those summer months.
We created PrepMaven's free Summer Calendar with this in mind. Our calendar compiles competitive summer programs for high school students in one simple spreadsheet!
Here's what you'll get:
- An organized list of Harvard Summer Programs for 2022
- Additional summer programs for 2022, including NYU, Stanford, and Princeton summer programs
- Session start and end dates
- Relevant links
Greg Wong and Kevin Wong
Greg and Kevin are brothers and the co-founders of PrepMaven and Princeton Tutoring. They are Princeton engineering graduates with over 20 years of education experience. They apply their data and research-backed problem solving skills to the college preparation and test prep process. Their unique approach places a heavy emphasis on personal development, character, and service as key components of college admissions success.
20+ Stanford Summer Programs for High School Students
20+ Stanford Summer Programs for High School Students
Bonus Material: PrepMaven's 2022 Summer Calendar
High school students have over 20 Stanford summer programs to choose from in 2022.
From philosophy to neuroscience, these programs give students a taste of college academics, campus life, and beyond.
Summertime is an important time for high school students, especially given the fact that many college applications ask students how they've spent their previous two summers. Pre-college programs like Stanford can bring a special focus to these valuable summers and give students rich material to draw upon when applying.
In this post, we've compiled over 20 Stanford summer programs that are up and running this year. We've included relevant details like application deadlines, session dates, and links.
We're also giving readers access to PrepMaven's 2022 Summer Calendar, which includes the top summer programs at elite U.S. institutions, including NYU and Princeton, in one easy-to-use spreadsheet. Grab it below!
Here's what we cover:

Stanford Summer Programs for High School Students: Pre-Collegiate
There are currently 2 summer programs at Stanford that emphasize pre-collegiate studies and experiences.
- High School Summer College
- Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes
Stanford's High School Summer College
Get a taste of college academic life with Stanford's High School Summer College, an 8-week program that gives students a chance to take actual Stanford courses for credit. Along with peers from over 40 countries, participants can study a wide range of subjects, from molecular genetics to Greek and Latin roots.
- Program Cost: $4,926 - $15,875
- Program Length: 8 weeks, June 18 - August 14, 2022
- Rolling Admissions Deadline: May 20, 2022
- Online/in-person: In-person
Note: There is a $95 application fee to apply to Stanford's High School Summer College. Students find out within 20 days of applying if they've been admitted.
Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes
Stanford's Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes offer shorter, online courses, giving participants the chance to pursue your passions as a member of a vibrant intellectual community spanning over 50 countries. Participants pursue a single-study program track for non-credit enrichment.
There are 30 possible courses spanning philosophy, humanities, engineering, math, writing, science, and more.
- Program Cost: $2,700 per course (financial aid is available)
- Program Length: 11 days
- Session One: June 20, 2022 - July 1, 2022
- Session Two: July 11, 2022 - July 22, 2022
- Application Deadline: March 15, 2022
- Online/in-person: Will be all online for summer 2022

Stanford Summer Programs for High School Students: Arts & Humanities
Stanford has one Arts & Humanities related summer program for eligible high school students: the Humanities Institute.
Stanford Summer Humanities Institute
Rising juniors and seniors can participate in Stanford's Summer Humanities Institute, a non-credit academic enrichment program that "explore the big questions at the heart of humanities" with Stanford professors. Students participate in daily group discussions and activities.
- Program Cost: $3,000 (financial aid is available)
- Program Length: 11 days
- Session One: June 20, 2022 - July 1, 2022
- Session Two: July 11, 2022 - July 22, 2022
- Application Deadline: March 15, 2022
- Online/in-person: Will be online for summer 2022
We've added all of Stanford's summer programs for 2022 to our Summer Calendar, which compiles summer programs for elite U.S. institutions like NYU and Princeton. It's free, and you can download it below right now!
Stanford Summer Programs for High School Students: STEM Programs
There are 7 STEM-related summer programs for high school students at Stanford:
- Stanford University Mathematics Camp
- Stanford Medical Youth Science Program
- Stanford Anesthesia Summer Institute: Medical Internships
- Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program
- Clinical Neuroscience Immersion Experience at Stanford
- Stanford Pre-Collegiate University-Level Online Math & Physics
- Stanford AI4ALL

Mathematics Camp
Current 10th and 11th graders around the globe are eligible for this three-week math intensive at Stanford. Take a deep dive into advanced mathematics through lectures, research, and group collaboration.
- Program Cost: $3,250 (financial aid is available)
- Program Length: 3 weeks
- Session One: June 20, 2022 - July 8, 2022
- Session Two: July 18, 2022 - August 5, 2022
- Application Deadline: March 15, 2022
- Online/in-person: Will be online for summer 2022
Medical Youth Science Program
Through Stanford's five-week Medical Youth Science enrichment program, students can take a deep dive into the world of medicine. This is a tuition-free program specifically for low-income juniors from certain counties in Northern and Central California.
Over the five weeks of this program, participants work on a group research project and get valuable advising in college admissions and health careers.
- Program Cost: Free for admitted applicants
- Program Length: 5 weeks, June 20, 2022 - July 22, 2022
- Application Deadline: March 15, 2022
- Online/in-person: Will be all online for summer 2022
Stanford Anesthesia Summer Institute: Clinical Science, Technology and Medicine Summer Internships
At the Anesthesia Summer Institute, participants get valuable hands-on experience via Stanford's School of Medicine over a rigorous two weeks. This institute qualifies as a medical internship and is led by Stanford faculty.
- Program Cost: $5,000 in-person // $4,000 online (scholarships available)
- Program Length: 2 weeks
- Session One: June 13, 2022 - June 24, 2022
- Session Two: July 25, 2022 - August 5, 2022
- Advanced Clinical Skills (internship): July 11, 2022 - July 15, 2022
- Application Deadline: May 12, 2022
- Online/in-person: In-person or online for summer 2022

Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program
This eight-week summer program gives students a rich opportunity to conduct medical research with Stanford faculty, graduate students, and peers. Participants also receive a stipend for their work (minimum of $500).
- Program Cost: Free to admitted applicants ($40 application fee, waivers available) // participating students are given a stipend of at least $500
- Program Length: 8 weeks, June 13, 2022 - August 4, 2022
- Application Deadline: February 20, 2022
- Online/in-person: Cancelled for summer 2021
Clinical Neuroscience Immersion Experience at Stanford
Over a period of two weeks, participants in Stanford's Clinical Neuroscience Immersion Experience get a rich introduction to neuroscience, psychiatry, and psychology through seminars and collaborative learning. Students complete a capstone project at the end of the program.
- Program Cost: $1,295 (scholarships available)
- Program Length: 2 weeks
- Session 1: July 11, 2022 - July 22, 2022
- Session 2: July 25, 2022 - July 5, 2022
- Application Deadline: February 15, 2022
- Online/in-person: Will be online for summer 2022
Stanford Pre-Collegiate University-Level Online Math & Physics
High school students with a passion for math and science can take online advanced courses through Stanford for college credit this summer. Choose from 13 courses ranging from Multivariable Calculus to Light and Heat. Open to 9th through 12th graders.
- Program Cost: $1,500 per course ($35 application fee) // financial aid available
- Program Length: June 20, 2022 - August 10, 2022
- Application Deadline: May 16, 2022
- Online/in-person: Online

Stanford AI4ALL
Through AI4ALL, participants experience hands-on learning in a vibrant peer community and take a deep dive into AI's power to make the world a better place. This three-week summer program, open only to 9th graders, aims to increase representation in the world of artificial intelligence.
- Program Cost: $4,000 (financial aid available)
- Program Length: June 27 -July 15, 2022
- Application Deadline: March 11, 2022
- Online/in-person: Online for 2022
Download PrepMaven's 2022 Summer Calendar
High school students have a lot to choose from when it comes to Stanford summer programs this 2022.
That's why we created PrepMaven's Summer Calendar, which compiles competitive summer programs for high school students in one easy-to-use spreadsheet.
Here's what you'll get:
- An organized list of Stanford Summer Programs for 2022
- Additional summer programs for 2022, including NYU and Princeton summer programs
- Session start and end dates
- Relevant links
Greg Wong and Kevin Wong
Greg and Kevin are brothers and the co-founders of PrepMaven and Princeton Tutoring. They are Princeton engineering graduates with over 20 years of education experience. They apply their data and research-backed problem solving skills to the college preparation and test prep process. Their unique approach places a heavy emphasis on personal development, character, and service as key components of college admissions success.
The Diamond Strategy: How We Help Students Write College Essays That Get Them into Princeton (and other Ivy League schools)
The Diamond Strategy: How We Help Students Write College Essays That Get Them into Princeton (and other Ivy League schools)
Bonus Material: 30 College Essays That Worked
The college essay is one of the most important parts of your college application. With more schools going test-optional, it’s safe to say that it is more important than ever.
Given its potential for displaying who you are outside of your grades, extracurricular activities, and teacher recommendations, your personal statement can profoundly influence the admissions decision.
So what does it take for our students to send us emails like this one?

It all boils down to approach and strategy.
Let’s face it. Writing a college essay that works is no easy task. You can download 30 college essays that worked right now (for free!) to see what we mean by this!

Bonus Material: 30 College Essays That Worked
30 full personal statements of applicants admitted to top-tier institutions
When they sit down to write their essays, students often have a lot of questions:
- Wait -- what actually is the college essay?
- What’s its role in college applications?
- How much time should I spend on this?
- What are supplemental essays?
- How do I choose the “best” topic for me personally?
- How do I effectively revise my essay?
- What’s introspection?
- How do I even start??
At PrepMaven, through our College Essay Workshop and one-on-one mentoring programs, we aim to answer all of these questions -- and so much more.
- We start off ensuring every student knows what the essay is, including its growing weight in college admissions
- We bring in the right timeline and the right process that aids in topic selection
- We meet students where they are and give them the final word so that they feel empowered throughout the entire journey
- We are there from brainstorming to final polishing and beyond
What is the Diamond Strategy?

We call our overall strategy for coaching students through the essay writing process "The Diamond Strategy."
A well-written personal statement is a lot like a beautiful, finished diamond: both are precious and easy to admire but also require an extremely thorough and intensive process to get to their final states.
Choosing an essay topic is like diamond mining.
Diamond miners may have to move hundreds of tons of earth to find a single carat of rough diamond. In the brainstorming and introspection process, a high school senior digs deep, brainstorming and reflecting upon years of experiences, before narrowing down possible essay topics best served to highlight character and personal qualities.
Getting to a final statement is like cutting and polishing a rough diamond.
A gemologist follows a careful plan to cut a rough diamond, round the roughs, polish the facets, inspect for quality, and touch up as needed. Likewise, a college essay writer needs a careful plan to select a winning topic, craft an outline, write a draft, then work through multiple revisions before the final essay is polished and complete.
Our "Diamond Strategy" approach has helped scores of students earn acceptance into Ivy League schools like Harvard, Yale, Princeton, and Cornell and elite institutions like USC, Johns Hopkins, Fordham, etc.
Curious about how we do it? Here’s what we’ll cover in this comprehensive post:
- Diamond Mining: Before You WriteYour College Essay
- Step #1 - Building a foundation before topic selection
- Step #2 - Brainstorming
- Step #3 - Choosing that topic
- The Rough Diamond: DraftingYour Essay
- Step #4 - Free-writing
- Step #5 - Creating an outline
- Step #6 - Writing that ugly first draft
- Cutting and Polishing: Revising and Beyond
- Step #7 - First and second draft revisions
- Step #8 - Additional revisions and polishing
- Step #9 - Supplemental essays
Bonus Material: 30 College Essays That Worked
Diamond Mining: Before You Write Your College Essay

Step #1 - Building a Foundation Before Topic Selection

Before our students start the writing process, we make sure they know exactly what they’re getting into.
- Review Common App and Coalition essay prompts
- Walk through our definition of the college essay
- Discuss the essay’s role in college admissions
- Take a look at examples of actual essays that worked
Most students will use the Common App to apply to U.S. colleges and universities. A smaller number of colleges require students to submit applications through Coalition.
Both platforms require students to submit a personal statement or essay response as part of their application. Students choose to respond to one of the following prompts in 650 words or fewer.
College Essay Prompts 2021 - 2022
The Common App | Coalition |
Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story. | Tell a story from your life, describing an experience that either demonstrates your character or helped to shape it. |
The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? | Describe a time when you made a meaningful contribution to others in which the greater good was your focus. Discuss the challenges and rewards of making your contribution. |
Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome? | Has there been a time when you’ve had a long-cherished or accepted belief challenged? How did you respond? How did the challenge affect your beliefs? |
Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you? | What is the hardest part of being a student now? What’s the best part? What advice would you give a younger sibling or friend (assuming they would listen to you)? |
Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others. | Submit an essay on the topic of your choice. |
Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more? | |
Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design. |
These questions all require answers that are introspective, reflective, and personal. But what does that really mean?

The college essay is a personal essay that tells an engaging story in 650 words or fewer. It is comparable to memoir or creative nonfiction writing, which relate the author’s personal experiences. It is rich with introspection, reflection, and statements of self-awareness.
Your task with the college essay is to become a storyteller--and, in the process, provide admissions officers with a valuable glimpse into your world, perspective, and/or experiences.
Yale's Senior Assistant Director of Admissions summed it up nicely with this quote about the college essay in 650 Words on College Essays:
The college essay is an an opportunity to reflect on your past few years and look ahead to college. The skills of reflection, self-expression, and cogent writing are all ones that will serve you well in college...You do not have to be the world’s most eloquent wordsmith to write a successful college essay; the best essays we read are those where the genuine voice of a high school student (that’s you!) comes through loud and clear and we really get a sense of who you are.
The College Essay's Role in College Admissions
In our post about what college admissions officers are looking for, we outline the Golden Rule of Admissions: Admissions officers look for students of exceptional potential who will become successful leaders.

We also define “a student of exceptional potential.” In general, competitive applicants to top U.S. colleges and universities exemplify three pillars:

Admissions officers have a lot at their disposal when it comes to assessing extracurricular distinction and academic achievement. They’ve got transcripts, test scores, resumes, and letters of recommendation.
But how do they assess character and personal values?
A recent survey of admissions officers revealed some interesting answers to this question.

Source: National Association for College Admissions Counseling
Notice how an overwhelming 86% of officers surveyed reported that they infer character and personal qualities of an applicant from the content of the college essay!
The Common Data Set for individual colleges further supports this notion that officers infer character and values through the college essay, teacher recommendations, and other application components. The CDS for Cornell, for example, reveals that the application essay and character/personal qualities are "very important" in admission decisions.

What’s more, the COVID-19 pandemic profoundly altered the college application landscape by introducing some serious inequity in the realm of extracurricular activities, academics, and general access. Many admissions officers have stressed their focus on character and personal values (more qualitative components) in recent admissions cycles as a result.

Schools are hungry for as much material as possible that they can use to assess students’ character and values! This is one of the reasons why many top colleges require applicants to answer supplemental essay questions -- ones in addition to the college essay. These essays can range from 50-650 words, and many colleges have more than one.
A College Essay That Worked
We always wrap up this stage of the college essay process with a thorough review of essays that worked -- those that earned their writers acceptance into their dream schools.
Here's an example college essay that earned its writer acceptance into Princeton. We won’t take a super deep dive into the components that make it great. But we do want to point out a handful of things that align with our definition of the college essay. This essay exemplifies the 7 qualities of a successful college essay:
- Tells an engaging story
- Clearly conveys the author’s voice
- Is rich with introspection and reflection
- Provides insight into the author’s character, values, and perspective
- Is not an academic essay or list of accomplishments
- Is deeply personal
Here’s the full essay:
“So long as you have food in your mouth, you have solved all questions for the time being.” -Franz Kafka
Kafka, I’m afraid, has drastically overestimated the power of food. And though it pains me to undermine a statement by arguably the greatest writer of the 20th century, I recognize it as a solemn duty. Perhaps Kafka has never sat, tongue wild in an effort to scrape residual peanut butter off his molars, and contemplated the almost ridiculous but nevertheless significant role of peanut butter in crafting his identity. Oh, did I just describe myself by accident? Without further ado, the questions (and lack of answers, I point out) that I contemplate with peanut butter in my mouth.
When I was three and a half years old, my tongue was not yet versed in the complex palate of my peers, consisting mainly of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. (It did not help my transition into pre-school that I did not speak English, but Russian and that my name, which had been hurriedly switched from Alya to Alex, was unpronounceable to me.) But it is most worth noting that I refused lunch for months, waited at the windowsill with tear-stained cheeks every day unless my mom left law school midday to bring my own comfort food: borscht, katlety, kampot.
I slowly assimilated into American culture, like most immigrant kids. I began to eat the peanut butter sandwiches at pre-school in the presence of my mom, and then did not need her altogether. She must have been elated that I was comfortable, that she could stay at school all day without worrying. She must have been destroyed when I waved her away the first time and told her I did not need her to come anymore.
I realized much later that the Russian food my mother brought me in pre-school made me comfortable enough to learn the language of the children there, to share their lunches, to make friends. Ironically, my Russian culture enabled the rise and dominance of American culture. When my parents wanted to visit their birthplace, my birthplace, Odessa, Ukraine, I rolled my eyes and proclaimed Disney Land, Florida. I rolled my eyes when I spoke too fast for my parents to understand. I rolled my eyes when I checked my mom’s grammar and when she argued with customer service in her thick Russian accent.
Peanut butter, and foods like it, represented not only my entrance into American culture, but the swift rejection of anything Russian that followed. Chicken noodle soup replaced borscht, meatballs replaced katlety, Sunny D triumphed over kampot. I became embarrassed by the snacks packed in my brown paper bag, begged for Cheetos, lime Jell-O cups, and that creamy spread between two damp pieces of Wonder Bread. My American identity tried to eclipse the Russian one altogether.
I realized later still that the identity battle I fought must have been more difficult to watch for my parents than it could have ever been for me to experience. They let me figure myself out, even though it meant I spent years rolling my eyes at them. Though I do not claim to have discovered a perfect balance of Russian and American, I would venture that a healthy start is eating peanut butter for lunch and katlety at dinner.
So, Kafka, I hope that next time a memorable quote comes to mind, you think before you speak. Because when peanut butter cleaves to the roof of my mouth, I think about what it means “to cleave:” both to adhere closely to and to divide, as if by a cutting blow, especially along a natural weakness. And I think about my dual identity, how the Russian side and American side simultaneously force each other apart and bring each other together. I think about my past, feeling a little ashamed, and about my present and future, asking how I can create harmony between these two sides of me. That, Kafka, does not sound like solved questions to me.
Want to read more essays that worked? Download our 30 college essays that earned their writers Ivy League acceptance for free below.

Bonus Material: 30 College Essays That Worked
30 full personal statements of applicants admitted to top-tier institutions
Step #2 - Brainstorming

We kick off the brainstorming process with several foundational exercises to get students comfortable with introspection:
- Level 1: Facts
- Level 2: Symbols
- Level 3: Values
Here's a glimpse at some guided questions that we ask students in these exercises, including sample responses by Maya, a fictional student preparing to write her college essay.



Once we've walked students through these initial brainstorming exercises, it's time to dig deeper! At this stage of brainstorming, we ask targeted questions about a student's personal experiences, challenges, life-changing scenarios, and interests.
Here's a snapshot of what that looks like, with Maya's responses to a handful of these questions:



We always make sure our students take the right amount of time to brainstorm.
In our College Essay Workshop, for example, we devote at least two sessions to brainstorming. Students who work with college essay mentors one-on-one can anticipate spending at least 2 hours gathering material they'll use for their college essay and supplementals down the road.
Step #3 - Topic Selection

We define promising essay topics as those most likely to result in a personal statement that exemplifies the 7 qualities of a successful college essay. These topics typically:
- Demonstrate an applicant's value(s) and character
- Have excellent storytelling potential
- Say something new in the context of a student's application
- Have an element of authenticity
- Feel personally exciting or intriguing in some way to the writer
Below are examples of "less promising" topics and "very promising" topics pulled from Maya's sample brainstorms.

To help students identify the promise of certain topics, we have them ask questions like these when reviewing final candidates:
- Does this topic allow me to say something the rest of my application does not say?
- Will talking about this topic demonstrate my character, values, and/or voice?
- Will this topic result in an HONEST essay?
- Is it distinct and/or unconventional?
- Will this topic give a reader a greater sense of who I am as a person?
- Will I enjoy writing it (for the most part)?
Maya discovers that the topic that says "yes" to all of these questions is the one about her skiing competition in Austria. She'll choose that for her college essay topic!
We also like to remind students that topics they don't end up choosing are great material for supplemental essay responses, which we discuss at the end of the revision process.
The Rough Diamond: Drafting Your Essay

Step #4 - Free-writing

Once students have chosen their college essay topic, it's time to mine that topic for all it's worth! We guide students through a topic free-write, designed to promote initial introspection and get them thinking about key storytelling elements.
We ask students questions like the following:
- What relevant contextual details do I need to include?
- In this anecdote, how did I feel?
- If there was a challenge, how did I respond?
- What did I learn?
- What values and qualities of mine does this reveal?
- What does this story say about me?
Take a look at an excerpt from Maya's free-write for her chosen topic.

Step #5 - Creating an Outline

Structure is very important in a college essay. The right structure can tell a story powerfully -- similarly, the wrong structure often means not taking full advantage of a topic's storytelling promise.
In most cases, students can use one of these 5 college essay structures:
- The Setback - Ideal for students who wish to discuss a challenge they've overcome, an experience that didn't go as expected, and/or their response to a specific obstacle
- The Thesis - Elaborates a specific belief or characteristic not necessarily framed through an experience, your stance on an issue, and/or a frank viewpoint on something that's important to you
- Compare & Contrast - Contrasts a student's perspective(s) with another's or compares two meaningful experiences, individuals, actions, and/or values
- Discovery - Focuses on an important, self-shaping experience, identity, or valuable moment of self-reflection or understanding
- Evolution - Presents the writer's evolution in relation to a community, ongoing experience, or deeply embedded belief
If these structures don't perfectly fit a student's topic, there are other options. It can be helpful for students to think about their essay as a Hero's Journey, for example, or even a movie storyboard. We also bring students back to examples of essays that worked so they can get a sense of range and fit.
In all cases, we have students summarize their essay in one sentence. This exercise is tough, but it forces students to think about the point of their essay, which can make it a lot easier when it comes to choosing a structure.
Here's Maya's one-sentence summary of her essay.

Once students choose a structure, it's time to create an outline, keeping the following in mind:
- Starting point
- Arrival point
- Takeaways
- Themes
- The reader's experience
Here's a glimpse of Maya's essay outline, which is briefer for the sake of this post:

Step #6 - Writing an Ugly First Draft

Even with an outline in hand, it can feel daunting to turn that outline into a first draft. That's why we encourage students to embrace the notion of an "ugly first draft" -- it doesn't have to be perfect by any means, as long as students get all of their ideas out on the page.
Grammar, diction, sentence structure, and word count are not primary considerations here! The key to drafting lies in getting essential ideas and takeaways on the page first.
Here's the introduction from Maya's first draft:

Cutting and Polishing: Revising and Beyond

Step #7 - First and Second Draft Revisions

We always encourage our students to set aside a lot of time to revise their essays, using the 7 qualities of a successful college essay as a guide.
Revising typically happens in two stages. In the first stage (first, second, and third draft revisions), we have students revise primarily for content.
We want to make sure that these drafts contain all of their core ideas. Typically, these revisions focus on structure, "airtime," introspection, and key details.
Structure | What have I established as my starting point? Have I given sufficient background / context details? Have I given too much? Where do I start talking about the how / why? Have I left room for introspection and reflection? What have I established as my ending point? Does this tell a clear, coherent story? Is everything in its right place? |
Airtime | What takes center stage in my essay? What do I need to hear more of? What do I need to hear less of? Is everything getting the airtime it deserves? |
Introspection | Have I left room for introspection and reflection? What do I wish to emphasize about myself here? Is my last paragraph rich with "I statements"? |
Key Details | What “picture” have I painted here? What details do I need more of? Less of? Where can I incorporate imagery? Specificity? |
Maya answers some of these questions as she's looking over her first draft, and uses those answers to guide parts of her revision. We've highlighted the revisions she's made for imagery and specificity in her essay's introduction.


Step #8 - Additional Revisions and Polishing

Once students have substantially revised their essays for structure and content, it's time to dig deeper and revise at the sentence level. In this second stage of revision, we work closely with students on language, style, voice, wordiness, and power of expression.
Language | What tone does my story convey? What tone do I want it to convey? Is my language precise and specific? Is it appropriate given my subject matter? Are there any glaring grammatical errors in need of fixing? Can I incorporate figurative language anywhere? Have I already done so? What’s the impact of this? |
Style | Where can I incorporate my own distinct writing style? Transition words or phrases? Imagery or description? How do my sentences “flow”? How’s my word choice? Does my language leave room for voice? |
Voice | Is my writing engaging? Where is my voice evident? Where do I need MORE voice? What voice emerges here, overall? Am I pleased with this? Is it effective? |
Wordiness | Can I remove any unneeded contextual details? How can I write more clear, declarative, un-fluffy sentences? Where can I cut words at the sentence level? |
Power of Expression | Can you identify any especially powerful moments? What does your reader ultimately take away from your piece? |
Maya works through some of these questions as she's revising the third and fourth drafts of her essay. Take a look at her answers below, as well as how she integrated these revisions into her essay.


Once students are close to a final polished draft, our final step is to hold the essay up to our 7 guiding qualities of a successful college essay. Students get to decide if their essay:
- Tells an engaging story
- Clearly conveys their voice
- Is rich with introspection and reflection
- Provides insight into their character, values, and perspective
- Is not an academic essay or list of accomplishments
- Is deeply personal
- Says something the rest of their application doesn't say
If the essay is under 650 words and checks all of these boxes, they've done it!
Step #9 - Supplemental Essays

The college essay is only part of the college application journey! Many schools, especially elite institutions, are now requiring students to complete additional, supplemental essays as part of their application.
These are all part of colleges' effort to get to know their applicants better and make informed admissions decisions.
But supplemental essays do require just as much time and energy as the personal statement requires -- if not more so! They often have very specific prompts and word counts. Students should budget enough time to draft responses to these essays before application deadlines (which are as early as November 1st).
Many of our college essay students continue working with their essay tutors on these supplementals, given how much our tutors get to know their students and their stories through the college essay writing process. We're committed to our students' success throughout the full application journey!
Download 30 College Essays That Worked
A great way to start the college essay writing process is to take a look at essays that worked. You can download 30 essays that earned their writers Ivy League acceptance right now -- simply click the download link below!

Bonus Material: 30 College Essays That Worked
30 full personal statements of applicants admitted to top-tier institutions
ACT Math: Everything You Need to Know
ACT Math: Everything You Need to Know
Bonus Material: PrepMaven's ACT Guidebook
ACT Math is the second section of the ACT. It comes right after ACT English, and it's a long one -- students have 60 minutes to answer 60 questions.
Timing can definitely be a challenge on this section for that reason. What's more, ACT Math is 100% content-based, which mean that test-takers do have to know things like the Pythagorean Theorem, trigonometry, probability, and other foundational math topics.
What do you need to know about Math on the ACT? What math concepts in particular does this section test? And what can you do to improve your score?
As the test prep experts, we've got the answers to these questions -- and much more!
Plus, we give readers access to our ACT Guidebook, a comprehensive guide for students navigating the test for the first time. It's free and you can grab it below!

Bonus Material: PrepMaven's ACT Guidebook
- Details about ACT scoring, content, testing options, and more
- An introduction to PrepMaven’s ACT strategies
- Information about ACT prep resources
- Application essentials for the top U.S. colleges
Click here to download a copy of our digital guide!
Here's what we cover:
1) ACT Math in a Nutshell
Here's what ACT, the organization that produces the test, says about the math section:
The ACT mathematics test is designed to assess the mathematical skills students have typically acquired in courses taken up to the beginning of grade 12. The test presents multiple-choice questions that require you to use reasoning skills to solve practical problems in mathematics. The material covered on the test emphasizes the major content areas that are prerequisites to successful performance in entry-level courses in college mathematics.
What does this actually mean?
In simpler language, ACT Math tests the math subjects most students will have learned through their senior year in high school. That includes pre-algebra, Algebra 1 and 2, geometry, trigonometry, and advanced math.
In fact, the test heavily emphasizes subjects from Algebra 1 and 2, which is why we encourage students to take the test only after they've completed Algebra 2.
Of course, ACT Math is not like your typical high school math test. We like to say that it tests familiar math concepts in unfamiliar ways. That's what ACT is getting at when it says the questions "require you to use reasoning skills to solve practical problems."
For example, here’s a typical ACT word problem from an official practice test:

This question might look intimidating at first glance, because there are a lot of words and numbers! But hiding behind all those words and numbers is a single concept: representing linear equations.
Let's take a look at the format of ACT math next.
Format
ACT Math is the second section of the test, appearing right after ACT English and before ACT Reading.
There are 60 questions on this section, to be completed in 60 minutes. These questions are arranged generally in order of increasing difficulty, which means that questions 1-20 are approximately low-difficulty, 21-40 are medium-difficulty, and 41-60 are high-difficulty.
Of course, "difficult" is a relative term on the ACT! It's not uncommon for a student to find question #10 difficult, for example, and question #55 easy.
That's why it's so important to establish your own strengths on ACT Math, which you can do by taking a practice test.
While the questions on ACT Math generally get harder as they progress, the concepts typically tested can appear in any order. For example, #18 might be a trigonometry question, while #40 might test pre-algebra, but in a harder way.
Take a look at this question from the first half of a practice test. It's a problem about trigonometric functions, but in a less complicated way:

Now compare this question from the end of a practice test. It's also a problem about trigonometric functions, but it's more complex!

Students are allowed to use a calculator on ACT Math, which is important. Using a calculator can be very helpful for preventing careless errors, checking your work, and tackling harder questions! Find ACT's calculator policy here.
Scoring
How is ACT Math scored? Every section on the ACT is scored on a scale of 1-36. So, 1 is the lowest score you can earn on this section and 36 is the highest score.
The test graders calculate this based on section-specific algorithms that boil down to converting your raw score (the number of questions you get right) to a number between 1 and 36.
All ACT section scores are averaged to generate a composite score on a scale of 1-36. You can find out more about how this works in our ACT scoring guide.
There is no wrong answer penalty on the ACT. This means that you don’t lose points for getting a question wrong on Math -- you simply do not get any points. Students can use this to their advantage by never leaving a question blank on this section!
How many questions do you have to get right in order to achieve a high score? The answer: it depends.
Even though the ACT is a standardized test, no two Math sections are the same in terms of difficulty and content. A 30 on one Math section likely doesn’t equate to a 30 on another.
The key to improving your ACT Math score thus lies in maximizing your raw score -- the more questions you ace on this section, the higher your odds are of earning a competitive score.
We’ll talk more about how to improve your Math score later on in this post. If you want more insight into what counts as a “good” ACT score overall, check out our other post on the subject.
If you're enjoying this post, you'll love our ACT guidebook, which contains all of this information about ACT Reading and so much more. It's a great, free resource for first-time test-takers, and you can grab it below right now!
The Math You Need to Know for the ACT
So what math do you actually need to know for the ACT?
ACT outlines three broad categories of math content areas tested on this section:
- Preparing for Higher Math (~60% of all questions)
- Integrating Essential Skills (~40% of all questions)
- Modeling (~25% of all questions)
ACT Math Category | Concepts Tested |
Preparing for Higher Math | Geometry Statistics & Probability Functions Algebra 1 and 2 Number and Quantity |
Integrating Essential Skills | Pre-Algebra Rates and Percentages Ratios and Proportions Volume, Surface Area, Area Average and Median |
Modeling | "Producing, interpreting, understanding, evaluating, and improving models" |
However, because these concepts are pretty broad (especially that Modeling category!), we've broken them down even further below based on our analysis of official ACT practice tests.
Concept | Topics Tested |
Geometry | Triangles Pythagorean Theorem Special Right Triangles (30-60-90 and 45-45-90) Area Trigonometry Rule of 180 (interior angles) Isosceles triangle properties Similar Triangles Equilateral triangle properties Right triangle properties Circles Area & Circumference Sectors, Interior Angles, and Arcs Tangent Lines Chords Radius and diameter 4-Sided Shapes Rectangle area and perimeter Diagonals Area of a trapezoid Area of a parallelogram Internal angles of a parallelogram Polygons Interior angle of a polygon formula Area of embedded shapes Ellipses |
Statistics & Probability | Probability formula Percent change Patterns and sequences |
Functions | Solving functions Graphing functions Composition of functions |
Algebra 1 & 2 | Slope Slope intercept form Linear equations (solving, graphing) Parallel lines Perpendicular lines Midpoint formula Distance formula Exponential decay and growth Systems of equations Range and domain Matrices Unit circle Logarithms Imaginary numbers and complex numbers Combinations and permutations Polynomials Factorial Radicals Vectors |
Number and Quantity | Adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing fractions Number properties Absolute value Scientific notation |
Pre-Algebra | Mean, Median, Mode Volume of 3-D shapes (cones, prisms, spheres, etc.) Surface area of 3-D shapes (cones, prisms, spheres, etc.) Area of shapes (triangles, rectangles, circles, etc.) Perimeter of shapes (rectangles, triangles, etc.) Solving equations and expressions Ratios Inequalities Types of numbers (rational, real, integers, etc.) Percentages Decimals |
Modeling | Linear equations Exponential equations Analyzing graphs, charts, figures, and other data |
How to Improve Your ACT Math Score
What can you do to improve your ACT Math score? Start with these five strategies, and then check out these 10 ACT Math Strategies to Get a High Score.
Strategy #1: Prioritize easier questions.
On each section of the ACT, every question is worth the same number of points. This means that an "easy" question is worth just as much as a "hard" question.
This can be counterintuitive, because many students are used to hard math questions being worth more on exams! They race through the easy questions on standard high school tests so they can spend most of their time on the more difficult problems.
However, this approach will not serve you on ACT Math.
Prioritize easier questions first and make sure you feel 100% confident on those before proceeding to difficult questions. This typically means spending most of your time on questions 1-40 on ACT Math.
If you find yourself spending more than a minute working a problem, skip it and come back. Save any remaining time at the end of the test for double-checking your work on those early questions.
Strategy #2: Make the answers work for you.
Take a look at this sample ACT Math word problem:

Do you see how all of the answers are in number form? If the answer choices are all numbers, this is a good sign that you can make those answers work for you instead of diving into complicated algebra!
You can "plug in" the answers to the problem and see which one fits the stipulations of the question. This is a much easier and faster way of solving this word problem.
Remember: on ACT Math, it doesn't matter how you arrive at the right answer, because no one's grading you on your work. For that reason, choose the most efficient and easiest way of getting to that correct answer.
Strategy #3: Replace abstract values with concrete ones.
ACT Math loves to ask questions that contain variables or unknown values, like "x", "3x+2", "|x| - x", etc...

It is always a lot harder to work with abstract values as opposed to concrete ones. So replace those abstract values with actual numbers!
In the example question above, that would mean replacing "negative real value of x" with something like -4. Then, plug your chosen value of x into the answer choices to see which ones are true and which ones aren’t.
When picking numbers in this way, be sure to choose ones that are relatively small and easy to work with, but avoid using 1, -1, or 0.
Strategy #4: Cut through the fluff on word problems.
ACT Math contains a lot of word problems! These can be tricky to navigate, because they're often very wordy and do a great job of hiding the actual math involved — and the question itself.
When approaching these word problems, try to separate the "fluff" — stuff you don't need — from the actual problem. Identify what the question is truly asking and focus on that.
This word problem is a great example of this. There are a lot of words here, but what is the question really asking?

If you realized that this is really asking what what's the smallest number that's divisible by 5, 6, and 7 — you’re right! (Then, once we have that number, we need to divide it by 7.) This really has nothing to do with relay races, grades, or groups of students.
The actual math involved in this word problem is pretty basic, but ACT Math loves to mask that in complicated wording.
Strategy #5: Build a solid foundation of content knowledge.
ACT Math and ACT English are the two sections of the test that rely most heavily on outside content knowledge. (Reading and Science are basically 100% strategy-based.)
For this reason, a solid foundation of content knowledge can only serve you on ACT Math!
Because a lot of this content covers algebra and geometry, topics many test-takers study earlier on in high school, it's important to review any topics you're rusty on.
You can pinpoint what you need to review by taking a practice ACT.
Keep in mind that the ACT does not include a reference page with relevant math formulas before the Math section. You'll have to go into the test with those memorized, so make sure to use flashcards or other study tools to lock those formulas in place!
These are only a handful of our expert ACT Math strategies. Find even more in this post here.
3) Download PrepMaven's ACT Guidebook
We've covered everything you need to know to jumpstart your ACT Math prep in this post.
But you'll find even more helpful information about navigating the ins and outs of ACT test-taking in our free ACT Guidebook, which you can download below!

Bonus Material: PrepMaven's ACT Guidebook
- Details about ACT scoring, content, testing options, and more
- An introduction to PrepMaven’s ACT strategies
- Information about ACT prep resources
- Application essentials for the top U.S. colleges
Click here to download a copy of our digital guide!
10 ACT English Strategies from the Experts
10 ACT English Strategies from the Experts
Bonus Material: PrepMaven's Grammar Workbook
ACT English can be a tough section for students. It's the first section of the ACT, and it contains 75 questions to be completed in 45 minutes.
Timing can thus be a challenge on English! Plus, this section requires outside content knowledge -- students must be familiar with 13 grammar rules and various principles of effective writing.
How can you improve your ACT English score? You'll need a firm grasp of those grammar rules and some strategies in your back pocket.
It’s extremely important to establish a strategic approach for all sections of the ACT, precisely because it is a standardized (and thus predictable) test.
In this post, you'll find our very best ACT English strategies to help you get closer to your target score.
We also give readers access to our grammar workbook, which gives students guided practice of the grammar rules tested on English. It's free, and you can grab it below!

Bonus Material: PrepMaven's Grammar Workbook
- All 13 grammar rules tested on ACT English
- Additional guided examples for each question type
- Practice 10+ questions per grammar concept
- Check your performance with detailed answers and explanations
Click here to download a copy of our workbook!
- The ACT English Section in a Nutshell
- 10 ACT English Strategies from the Experts
- Bonus: PrepMaven's Grammar Workbook
1) ACT English in a Nutshell

ACT English tests your knowledge of foundational English grammar rules and principles of effective writing.
Here's what you need to know:
- ACT English is the first section of the ACT
- It's scored on a scale of 1-36, like every other ACT section
- There are 75 questions on ACT English, to be completed in 45 minutes, and 5 passages
- Approximately 50% of the questions concern straight-up English grammar rules
- The other 50% have to do with language and principles of effective writing
- Questions appear throughout a passage, as opposed to at the end
- Subjects of passages vary, but generally passages are less dense than Reading passages
Let's look at the strategies you can use on ACT English to succeed!
For an even deeper dive into ACT English, check out our post Everything You Need to Know About ACT English.
2) 10 ACT English Strategies from the Experts
Strategy #1: Read the full text.
Unlike the ACT Reading test, students do not need to have an in-depth understanding of the passages in order to be successful on the English test.
That being said, Production of Writing and Knowledge of Language questions will often require students to consider context and main ideas of sentences, paragraphs, or the passage as a whole.
Check out this Production of Writing question, for example. To answer many of these questions successfully, test-takers have to have a general sense of the passage's main idea and purpose!

For this reason, skimming can be detrimental to test-takers. Read all of the words of the passage, even if they do not contain any underlined portions.
It is also a good idea to keep the big picture in mind as you work through paragraphs and passages. Save questions that ask about the passage as a whole for the end.
Strategy #2: Identify the concept the question is actually testing.
According to ACT, the organization that writes the test, there are three types of questions on ACT English:
- Production of Writing
- Knowledge of Language
- Conventions of Standard English
These categories may seem pretty broad, which is why we've broken these question types into the following concrete concepts they test:

Familiarizing yourself with these question types and the concept they test is a vital part of learning the "language" of this section. Identifying question types and the concepts they're testing can also be important in terms of eliminating answers strategically.
We've mentioned that one key difference between Production of Writing and Conventions of English questions often has to do with whether or not there's a question in front of the answer choices.
But what else can you do to identify question types?
Take a look at the answers. Compare them to one another – how do they differ? What's changing between them?
Do some answer choices include a plural subject, while others make the subject possessive? If so, this could be a question about apostrophes. Do some answer choices seem much longer than others? This could be a question about concise writing.
Once students have identified the guiding principle of a given question, it becomes much easier to identify the error and correct it.

In these two example questions, the answer choices indicate that both questions are about English conventions. The first questions asks about rules for plurals and possessives with apostrophes, while the second question asks about "fewer" vs "less" and "then" vs "than."
Strategy #3: Prove answer choices wrong.
Remember that for every English Conventions question, there will only be one answer that is grammatically correct. In addition to finding the right answer, it’s important to check every other answer and identify why that answer choice is grammatically incorrect.
If you ever feel that there are two or more grammatically correct answers, look closer!
The ACT loves to include “nearly correct” choices that appear solid at first glance, which is why it’s important to check every answer carefully. You should be able to definitively rule out all but one choice.
The Production of Writing and Knowledge of Language questions can be a little trickier because more than one answer may be grammatically correct, but only one will communicate the author’s intention most clearly.
Strategy #4: Shorter is often better.
In general, if more than one answer is grammatically correct, the shortest answer will be the right one. The ACT loves to test wordiness and how to avoid it — in general, shorter is always better.

In this example, D is by far the shortest answer choice. That doesn't guarantee it's correct, but a quick scan of the other answer choices shows that it is definitely the most concise!
By extension, if there’s ever an answer choice that says “DELETE the underlined portion,” students should check this one first. It is not always correct, but it has a high likelihood of being the right answer.
Remember that the process of elimination is your best friend.
If you’re ever stuck on the Production of Writing questions, compare the answer choices to one another to see how they differ. If every piece of information included in an answer choice isn’t absolutely necessary, then you’re probably better off cutting it out.
Strategy #5: Know your grammar rules.
Yes, you will have to know how to use a semicolon on ACT English -- and other standard grammar rules. Hit the ground running for your ACT English prep by getting comfortable with the 13 grammar rules tested on this section.
With these rules, keep in mind that the ACT will test them in predictable ways. As you prep, you'll start to notice, for example, that it will test apostrophe usage in mostly the same way from test to test. The same goes for all of the other grammar rules!
You can find all of these rules and free guided practice in our Grammar Workbook -- make sure to grab your copy below!
Strategy #6: Don't let "No Change" trip you up.
Almost every ACT English question includes an answer choice that reads “No Change.”

Students are often wary of choosing this option, but in reality, it should be treated like every other answer choice.
The layout of the Writing and Language section necessitates a “No Change” option so that the passages can be read in their entirety without gaping holes. Yet the underlined information is no more or less likely to be correct than any other answer choice.
When you’re selecting your answer, read the full underlined portion included in the text and treat it just like any other answer choice!
How does it differ from the other answers? What rule is the question testing on, and how does the original phrase match up to that rule?
Remembering to check the original text is especially important for the Production of Writing and Knowledge of Language questions: what was originally in the passage may very well have been the shortest answer, and so don’t disregard it when you’re trying to play the “shorter is always better” card!
Strategy #7: Prioritize easier questions.
There is no wrong answer penalty on the ACT, so as a rule, don't leave any questions blank on the test! Make a strategic guess on difficult questions and move on.
Questions will vary in difficulty, though, and an easy question on ACT English is worth the same number of points as a difficult question! This means that you should prioritize easy questions first within individual passages.
What does an "easy" question look like on English?
It depends. Every test-taker is likely to have different strengths. In general, however, Conventions of English questions tend to be "easier" for students because they often boil down to a specific grammar rule. They also tend to take less time to answer.
If you have a knack for memorizing and applying grammar rules, these ones are for you!
One of the best ways to find out where your personal strengths lie on ACT English is to take a practice test.
Strategy #8: Plug answer choices back in to the sentence.
Once you've made your selection, read it back into the original sentence to ensure it fits the context.
This might seem like a superfluous step, but we like to mention it because ACT English loves leaving out crucial words or sneaking in an unsuspecting comma in answers that otherwise appear correct.
This strategy also ensures that you are double-checking your work and reading for valuable context.
Strategy #9: Specific is often better.
Many Production of Writing questions ask about an author's intent, especially in terms of conveying certain details or ideas.
These questions can be challenging to answer, but a good rule of thumb is to zero in on the answers that are more specific. Why? Strong writing -- at least from ACT's perspective -- is clear, specific, and concise.

Context is very key for answering this question correctly. The question asks for a clear introduction to the research question, which is a hint that we want to search for something specific, not general. Answer B doesn't refer to a research question, so it's not the right answer.
However, our answer should be specific in the right way — in this case, introducing the research question that the essay explores! Answers C and D are certainly specific, but not in a way that matches the question. Answer A, on the other hand, describes an important question for which scientists don't know the answer — in other words, the "research question" that we're looking for!
Strategy #10: Don't overthink Production of Writing questions.
That being said, it's very easy to overthink Production of Writing questions, especially those that ask about the passage as a whole.
Remember that ACT English -- like ACT Reading -- is a very literal test, so do your best to take questions at face-value and answer them literally!
In fact, if you find yourself analyzing a Production of Writing question on ACT English from multiple angles, and going back and forth on a couple of answers, it's a good sign that you're overthinking. Come back to that question or guess and move on.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the correct answer on a Production of Writing question is often backed up by evidence in the text. Prove your answer right on these questions, and be careful of making assumptions.
3) Download PrepMaven's Grammar Workbook
There you have it -- 10 of the very best ACT English Strategies to help you succeed on this section.
You can also find all 13 grammar rules tested on the ACT, as well as guided practice, in our free Grammar Workbook -- a great place to begin your prep!

Bonus Material: PrepMaven's Grammar Workbook
- All 13 grammar rules tested on ACT English
- Additional guided examples for each question type
- Practice 10+ questions per grammar concept
- Check your performance with detailed answers and explanations
Click here to download a copy of our workbook!