Whether your student is in the 8th or 9th grade or is a sophomore or junior, they can benefit from a PSAT class offered by Varsity Tutors. Working with a tutor in PSAT prep classes can be helpful to your student if they are preparing to take the PSAT 8/9, PSAT 10, or PSAT/NMSQT. If you're interested in a PSAT course for your student, feel free to contact Varsity Tutors for more details.
The PSAT/NMSQT serves as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. It was designed to be administered to high school sophomores and juniors during the fall. The PSAT 10 is offered in the Spring. However, this exam would not make your student eligible to become a National Merit Scholar. The PSAT 8/9 is designed for eighth and ninth grade students to identify areas where they may need more academic focus for any college readiness exams they'll take in the future.
The PSAT was designed to help students prepare for taking the SAT by completing preliminary practice exams. Being tutored one-on-one in a distraction-free environment can provide your child with the ideal learning situation for their PSAT class. They won't have to compete for the tutor's attention as they would in a classroom setting. When your child asks any questions, they can receive a timely answer from the tutor.
At the start of the first session in PSAT courses, an assessment of your child's academic skills can be completed. The tutor can ascertain any weak or strong areas so the right lesson plan can be implemented in the PSAT classes. This baseline can be instrumental in helping the tutor establish benchmarks for the study sessions. Tutors want to optimize each lesson so that your student can get the most out of the process and increase their confidence level for taking the PSAT.
There are some variations among the PSAT 8/9, PSAT 10, and PSAT/NMSQT. The chart below shows the differences between these PSAT exams. A PSAT prep course tutor can help your child understand the differences and prepare them for the proper test:
PSAT Exam | PSAT 8/9 | PSAT 10 | PSAT/NMSQT |
Who takes it? | 8th and 9th Grade Students | 10th Grade Students | 10th and 11th Grade Students |
When is the test available? | Fall through Spring | Spring | Fall |
Is the exam National Merit Scholarship eligible? | No | No | Yes |
Are students eligible for other scholarships by taking this test? | No | Yes | Yes |
Both you and your child's time is valuable. We can connect you with a tutor who is flexible with your busy schedule. PSAT prep courses can be taken online through our Live Learning Platform. All you need is a laptop, tablet, or even a smartphone, along with an internet connection for these classes.
Your student will need to have a competency in Reading, Writing and Language, and Math in order to do well on the PSAT. When they take PSAT prep classes, they can learn how to study more effectively so they can retain more of the material. Some students may get nervous when taking standardized tests. This could keep students from performing at their level of potential, but if your student has this issue, a tutor can work with them in the PSAT course to learn relaxation exercises, which can help them calm down and focus on the exam day. Staying calm is important if they want to be able to recall information that they've learned.
Each student has a different learning style. A tutor can work with your student's specific learning needs and abilities to customize lessons that help students learn in ways that work for them. This kind of training helps students comprehend ideas more efficiently.
Brianna: PSAT course instructor
...Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing Analytics and a minor in Mathematics. I have worked with kids of all ages, ranging from elementary school to college students through various subjects. I have also worked extensively with special needs children, doing everything from teaching special education to one-on-one in-home mentoring. Through my experiences, I have continued to carry my passion for working with children and have developed my skills in making successful and individualized learning...
Education & Certification
- University of Richmond - Current Undergrad, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- SSAT
- ACT 8-Week Prep Class
- ACT 4-Week Prep Class
- +217 subjects
Lee: PSAT course instructor
...have a lot of experience with test prep and love working with students who need help with standardized tests. I'm a laid back individual, but I like to push my students. I know that every student is able to do well and I really enjoy helping them along their path to success. But being laid back, I am also good at relaxing a student and helping point out what is important and what is not....
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Engineering
- Northwestern University - Master of Science, Biomedical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- ASPIRE
- +41 subjects
Diptesh: PSAT course instructor
...I have been passionate about education since high school and have been teaching, tutoring, and mentoring students from grades 6-12 and college in a variety of subjects since! I specialize in mathematics and science tutoring as well as standardized exam preparation. In the past, I have helped students achieve significant improvements and success on the SAT, SHSAT, Regents and other exams! I truly believe education is a mutual learning and teaching opportunity and enjoy helping...
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelor of Science, Global Public Health & Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- SAT
- ISEE
- SAT Subject Tests
- +88 subjects
Alex: PSAT course instructor
...this Socratic style of teaching after taking several courses in college from a professor who had perfected the technique. The majority of his class-time revolved around asking us questions that led us to the points he was trying to make. While not everything can be taught purely in this fashion, I try to make my lessons focus on principles and processes, creating a deeper understanding of the facts presented in class or in the textbook....
Education & Certification
- University of Florida - Bachelor in Arts, Anthropology
- Georgetown University - Master of Arts, Conflict Resolution
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- Advanced Placement
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +146 subjects
Erica: PSAT course instructor
...where I attained two Bachelor's degrees in English and Ancient Latin Language and Literature. I am a licensed teacher with a diversity of experience working with young people. For the past 10 years, I have tutored students of all ages and in a variety of subjects, with a strong focus on K-12 mathematics. I am pursuing a Master's degree in Elementary Education and a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. I am extremely...
Education & Certification
- Oberlin College - Bachelor in Arts, English; Latin Language and Literature
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- ISEE
- SAT
- HSPT
- +77 subjects
Tessa: PSAT course instructor
...University, with a prospective double major in Mathematics and History. I strive to bring students toward their lightbulb moments not by repeating facts until they're drilled in, but by helping my students understand precisely why the laws of science, the rules of grammar, and the events of history are the way they are, and by lifting the curtain on the intricacies of the subject matter. I believe that learning is, and ought to be, for...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Current Undergrad, Mathematics and History
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- ACT
- +106 subjects
Hallie: PSAT course instructor
...in literature, history, religion, neuroscience, and more. I assistant taught in college and often helped my friends with essay writing and studying. Since graduating, I’ve tutored my younger sister for many of her high school classes. I now tutor a wide range of subjects, including literature, history, writing, Spanish, and Algebra. I am particularly passionate about preparations for standardized testing, including the SATs and AP exams, and helping students through the college application process. My...
Education & Certification
- Skidmore College - Bachelors, theater
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT Math
- +51 subjects
Del: PSAT course instructor
...techniques found in a session and applying them anywhere. I was raised a native Spanish speaker and I have a passion for learning and teaching languages. I am currently fluent in English and Spanish, conversational in Italian, and I'll be tackling Mandarin next. I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama from the University of Oklahoma with an emphasis in Acting. I was lucky enough to attend OU on a National Merit Scholarship that...
Education & Certification
- University of Oklahoma Norman Campus - Bachelors, Drama, BFA
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- SAT
- Conversational Spanish
- Algebra 2
- +13 subjects
Zachary: PSAT course instructor
...specialize in tutoring high school math and chemistry, but I can also tutor for standardized tests. I have tutoring experience from highschool. I enjoy tutoring because I get to see how my students develop their skills over time. Outside of school, I enjoy playing trombone and singing (I do enjoy using songs to help memorize math formulas), speedcubing (solving Rubik's Cubes really fast), and hanging out with my friends. If you attend ISU, we can meet...
Education & Certification
- Illinois State University - Current Undergrad, Mathematics - Actuarial Science
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- MAP
- ACT
- Algebra 2
- +19 subjects
Matt: PSAT course instructor
...and Infectious Diseases. I then went on to complete a Masters program at Georgetown University in human physiology. Given the amount of schooling I have gone through myself, I have taken a wide range of subjects and more standardized tests than I would like to admit. I have taught students of almost every age in various fields such as elementary science, Hebrew, chemistry, MCAT prep, and many more.. My ultimate plan is to go to...
Education & Certification
- Johns Hopkins University - Bachelors, Public Health concentration in Immunology and Infectious Disease
- Georgetown University - Masters, Biophysics and Human Physiology
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- SAT
- ACT
- SSAT
- +85 subjects
Travis: PSAT course instructor
...of tutoring. Additionally, I see no value in simply telling a student that they are wrong, or that they are incorrect. By working with each student through the thought processes and steps that led them to an incorrect answer, they attain a better understanding of why an answer is wrong and how to arrive at the correct one. I specialize in essay writing, elementary-high school math skills, college admissions essays, and test preparation. I am...
Education & Certification
- University of Southern California - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
- University of Southern California Sol Price School of Public Policy - Master in Public Health Administration, Master of Public Administration
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- Public Speaking
- +34 subjects
Ben: PSAT course instructor
...way you want to learn and the way you learn best rather than having topics taught at you. For standardized testing: I have taken the special classes and labored through the workbooks to prepare for taking the exams myself. The trick is to learn the test and know how to beat it with the right tools, and I am eager to pass along what I have learned from years of studying for and taking standardized...
Education & Certification
- George Washington University - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- Roosevelt University - PHD, Clinical Psychology
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- ACT
- GED
- SAT
- +50 subjects
Andrew: PSAT course instructor
...extensive background in math, science, and writing. As a tutor, I will be able to work with you across a broad range of topics. In terms of hobbies and interests, I enjoy discovering new music and collecting records. In the past, I have even hosted my own radio show. I also enjoy kayaking and playing sports including basketball and tennis. In addition, I enjoy cooking and exploring new cuisines, and I try to do this...
Education & Certification
- Bucknell University - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
- George Washington University - PHD, Cognitive Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- ACT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- +44 subjects
Rebecca: PSAT course instructor
...it sticks with you to build a solid foundation of knowledge and confidence that you can carry forward. My favorite subjects to tutor include English, SAT test preparation, math, and psychology. My approach to tutoring is to meet the student where they're at and go from there. I find that this way we can build a productive tutoring relationship where I can help individualize learning to each person's particular learning style. Outside of academic interests,...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelors, Psychology
- University of Chicago SSA - Masters, Social Work
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- SSAT
- ISEE
- ACT
- +53 subjects
Jaimie: PSAT course instructor
...degree in Chemical Engineering. I am currently working in the lab of Professor Robert Langer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology working on novel drug delivery systems for the gastrointestinal tract. I am hoping to attend medical school in pursuit of becoming a physician. I am currently interested in pediatrics and psychiatry but I am looking forward to exploring a range of available disciplines. I enjoy tutoring because I find it to be an engaging...
Education & Certification
- Northeastern University - Bachelors, Chemical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- TOEFL
- SAT
- SSAT
- +93 subjects
Stacie: PSAT course instructor
...compares to the sense of accomplishment and purpose that comes with helping others do the same. I take great pride in developing individualized tutoring programs for my students based on their specific needs and goals. I previously taught high school for several years and also have tutoring experience in a wide variety of subject areas. At this time, I focus almost exclusively on assisting students seeking top scores on graduate admissions exams, including the GRE,...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Arlington - Bachelors, English
- Texas AM University - Commerce - Current Grad Student, Secondary Education
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- SAT
- ASPIRE
- +134 subjects
Max: PSAT course instructor
...public middle school (my team of 7th graders just won the 2016 New Haven regional championship!), and I've been tutoring middle and high school students for over 7 years. On top of all of that, I'm an aspiring professional in the business world - this past summer I worked at an internship in financial consulting (banking advisory & analytics), and have previously held internship positions in human capital consulting & private equity, as well as...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Current Undergrad, Economics
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- ISEE
- Advanced Placement
- SSAT
- +104 subjects
Ajay: PSAT course instructor
...found this difficult; it was a challenge determining exactly where a student's understanding of a topic was faulty. Over time, however, I developed a keener sense for the hurdles that students sometimes face when learning, as well as the most efficient ways to overcome them. I also developed more patience and empathy through tutoring - I often remembered feeling the same confusion about a topic that my students were feeling the first time I had...
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Bachelors, Electrical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- GED
- SAT
- AIMS
- +85 subjects
Miguel: PSAT course instructor
...a Bachelor of Arts in English. As for pertinent work experience prior to Varsity Tutoring, I have tutored middle school aged children in English for a year as a part of the PAIR program and helped graduate students from foreign countries practice their conversational English. Please feel invited to contact me and/or ask me your questions. I am able to travel to most of Philadelphia and its surrounding suburbs, and my schedule is flexible. I...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelors, Computer Science / English
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- TOEFL
- SAT Subject Tests
- GED
- +176 subjects
Adam: PSAT course instructor
...school in the near future, but I have always enjoyed teaching. I started tutoring during my junior year of high school, finding that I had an aptitude for analogies that helped students learn the material. I tutor a large variety of subjects, including LSAT, SAT, and ACT. I also tutor various academic subjects, primarily in the fields of math and science. My favorite subject to tutor is Chemistry, followed closely by Physics. I feel that...
Education & Certification
- University of Cincinnati-Main Campus - Bachelors, Sociology
Subject Expertise
- PSAT
- ACT
- SAT
- SAT Subject Tests
- +186 subjects