Is 1350 a Good PSAT Score? 2024 Guide to Top Percentiles

A PSAT score of 1350 is strong for most students. It places them well above the national average and typically falls within the top 10–15% of test-takers. For juniors, this score is competitive for college readiness and scholarship opportunities, though it may not be enough to qualify for National Merit in high-scoring states. For sophomores, a 1350 is especially impressive, suggesting strong academic preparation ahead of schedule.

Understanding PSAT Scoring and Percentiles

The PSAT is scored on a scale from 320 to 1520, combining two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math, each scored from 160 to 760. A 1350 usually means a student scored around 670–680 per section.

Percentiles show how a score compares to others. A 1350 generally falls between the 90th and 95th percentile, meaning the student scored higher than 90% to 95% of test-takers. This places them in a strong position nationally.

The Selection Index is used for National Merit consideration and is calculated differently: EBRW score plus double the Math score, with a maximum of 228. A 1350 total score often translates to a Selection Index in the low to mid-200s. While this can be competitive in some states, it may not meet the threshold in more competitive regions.

How 1350 Compares Nationally

The average PSAT score for juniors is about 1010–1050. A 1350 is significantly higher, reflecting strong performance across both sections. Only a small portion of students score above 1400, so 1350 sits just below that top tier.

Here’s how it compares to national benchmarks:

• 50th percentile (average): ~1010
• 75th percentile: ~1170
• 90th percentile: ~1300–1320
• 95th percentile: ~1380–1400

This means a 1350 is close to the 95th percentile, making it a standout score for most students. However, in states with intense academic competition—such as California, Texas, or New Jersey—the same score may not stand out as much, especially for state-specific honors or scholarships.

Grade level also matters. A 1350 as a sophomore is particularly strong, showing advanced readiness. For juniors, it supports a solid SAT target in the 1350–1450 range with continued preparation.

National Merit Considerations

The PSAT serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program. About 1.5 million students enter each year, with around 50,000 receiving recognition and 7,500 earning scholarships. The cutoff is based on the Selection Index and varies by state.

A 1350 typically corresponds to a Selection Index between 205 and 215. This may be enough to qualify in states with lower thresholds but not in more competitive ones. For example, recent cutoffs have ranged from about 206 in Mississippi to 223 in California.

Students should check their state’s most recent cutoff to assess eligibility. While a 1350 may not guarantee National Merit recognition in high-scoring states, it still reflects strong academic ability and can support other scholarship applications.

Those aiming for National Merit might consider focusing on SAT improvement, as high SAT scores can sometimes support recognition in special circumstances. Targeted practice in weaker areas—using free resources like Khan Academy—can help boost performance.

Preparing for the SAT with a 1350 PSAT Score

A 1350 PSAT score indicates strong readiness for the SAT, which follows a similar format and content structure. Most students with this PSAT score go on to score between 1330 and 1430 on the SAT, depending on preparation and growth.

For example, a student who scored 640 in Math and 710 in EBRW might focus on strengthening algebra and data analysis skills. Reviewing incorrect answers from PSAT practice can reveal patterns—such as difficulty with inference questions or time management—that guide effective study.

Timing is another factor. The SAT is slightly longer than the PSAT, so building stamina through full-length, timed practice tests helps improve focus and accuracy. A student who struggles to finish the math section, for instance, could practice skipping harder questions and returning to them later.

Using official College Board materials ensures alignment with real test content. These include personalized study plans, skill diagnostics, and full practice exams. Consistent, focused practice can help many students reach 1400+ on the SAT, improving chances at selective colleges and merit-based aid.

Key Takeaways

• A 1350 PSAT score is strong and places students in the top 10–15% nationally.
• It is well above the average score of around 1010–1050, indicating solid college readiness.
• For National Merit, 1350 may be competitive in some states but not in higher-cutoff regions.
• Students should use this score as a baseline for targeted SAT preparation and scholarship planning.