PSAT Exam Day

The PSAT/NMSQT® test is scheduled for Saturday, October 26, 2024.

Test Details
  • Date: Saturday, October 26, 2024
  • Location: NSCD - Upper School/Administration Building
  • Arrival Time: 7:45 a.m. (Doors open at this time)Test Start Time: 8:00 a.m. (Please arrive by 7:45 a.m.)
  • Estimated End Time: 11:00 a.m. (This is for standard testing time. Students with extended time will have a different schedule.)
Important Notes:
  • Pre-Registration Required: You MUST register for the PSAT beforehand. Students who don't register won't be allowed to take the test.
  • Digital Test: This year, the PSAT is completely digital. You will use your fully charged, school-issued iPad with the Bluebook app downloaded. No loaner iPads will be available.
What to Bring:
  • Pen or Pencil (for scratch work): It doesn't have to be a No. 2 pencil.
  • Your school-issued iPad with the Bluebook app downloaded (Make sure it's charged!).
Optional:
  • Snacks and drinks (must be kept under your desk during testing)
  • Calculator approved for the PSAT Math section (See the list at psat.org/calculator) - This is only if you prefer using a handheld calculator instead of the built-in Desmos calculator in the Bluebook app.
  • Extra batteries, power cord, and backup calculator (just in case)
About the Digital PSAT:
  • The digital PSAT is shorter than the paper version (2 hours and 14 minutes vs. almost 3 hours). This means you'll have more time per question, allowing you to focus on your skills and knowledge rather than rushing. There are also shorter reading passages and a built-in calculator for the entire Math section.
Test Breakdown:
  • Reading & Writing: 64 minutes, 54 questions
  • Math: 70 minutes, 44 questions
  • Total Time: 134 minutes (2 hours and 14 minutes)
Need More Information?
We encourage you to explore the resources available on the NSCD website. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Ms. Aiston at registrar@nscds.org.



What to Bring on PSAT/NMSQT Test Day (copied from the College Board)

There are only a few things you need to bring on test day and many things you'll be better off leaving at home. Be sure to bring:
  • Your fully charged device.
  • A power cord and/or a portable charger. We cannot guarantee you'll have access to an outlet during testing. Your device should be able to hold a charge for 3–4 hours.
  • A pencil or pen.
  • Scratch paper will be provided—do not bring your own.
  • An approved calculator. There's a graphing calculator built into the app, but you can bring your own if you like.
  • An external mouse if you use one.
  • If you use an external keyboard (you can only use external keyboards with tablets, not laptops).
  • An approved photo ID if you're homeschooled or if you'll be testing at a school that is different from the one you usually attend.

Nice to Have

  • A watch (without an audible alarm).
  • Extra batteries for your calculator and backup equipment—you'll have to ask for permission to access them. They can’t be on your desk during the test.
  • A bag or backpack.
  • A drink or snacks (for your break).
  • Epinephrine auto-injectors (for example, EpiPens) are permitted without the need for accommodations. They must be placed in a clear bag and stored under your desk during testing. For policies on other medications and medical devices, contact the Services for Students with Disabilities office.


PSAT Resources