In a significant move towards modernization, the College Board has transitioned to digital testing, marking a departure from traditional paper-based examinations.
The tests conducted this fall include the Preliminary-SAT (PSAT) and National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT).
The digital tests will be taken on a school issued device. The digital tests will be shorter, a little over two hours instead of three, with more time per question. In addition, the reading passages will be shorter with one question tied to each. Also, calculators will now be embedded in the Math section.
Watch this video to see what students can expect from the digital PSAT/NMSQT.
Testing Dates
Meads Mill Middle School students in 8th grade will take the digital PSAT on October 11th, with a digital readiness check the previous day. Hillside Middle School students in 8th grade will take the digital PSAT on October 24th, with a readiness check on October 16th. Then students at Northville High School will take the PSAT/NMSQT on October 12, 2023.
With the College Board’s shift to digital testing, schools must complete a digital readiness check with their students before test day. Northville High School will complete their Digital Readiness Check on Tuesday, October 10, during Seminar.
The digital readiness check is designed to familiarize students with the newly introduced Bluebook testing application. It aims to ensure that student’s personal information is accurate and that their devices are properly configured for test day. Your student’s school will supply all necessary testing devices for this process, which is expected to be completed within 30 minutes or less.
During these sessions, proctors will handle attendance, distribute testing tickets and devices, and assist students in logging into the Bluebook application.
Additionally, it's important to note that due to the College Board's shift to digital testing, the daily schedule at NHS on Thursday, October 12, will be modified. Seniors will not have school, offering them an opportunity for college visits or focusing on college applications and scholarships.Sophomores and Freshmen will take their tests first, followed by Juniors. The change in schedule also affects Friday, October 13, which will transition from a B-day to a C-day. These adjustments have been made to create the best possible testing environment for students.
The College Board's move to digital testing reflects a broader trend in education, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy and adaptability in the modern era. This shift is expected to provide students with a more streamlined and efficient testing experience while preparing them for the digital demands of higher education and the workforce.