Information on PSAT 9/10 and SAT

The PSAT 10 tests the same skills and knowledge as the SAT in a way that makes sense for 10th-graders. It builds on the Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) tests in English language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. The PSAT 10 also aligns with Colorado Academic Standards (CAS) and with the SAT that students will take in 11th grade.

The PSAT 10 focuses on the knowledge, skills, and understandings that research has identified as most important for college and career readiness and success. In addition to helping sophomores practice for the SAT, it can identify student's potential for success in advanced course work. It provides more data than ever before about academic strengths and weaknesses as well as access to millions of dollars in potential scholarships.

Colorado has given a college entrance exam each spring to all 11th graders enrolled in public schools since 2001. In 2015 the Colorado legislature passed House Bill 15-1323, requiring the state to competitively bid for a new 10th grade exam that is aligned to both the Colorado Academic Standards and an 11th grade college entrance exam. The legislation also added the opportunity for students to take an additional, optional essay as part of their college entrance exam at no cost to the student. The selection committee chose the PSAT for 10th graders and the SAT for the 11thgrade college entrance exam because of their alignment to the high school Colorado Academic Standards and because the College Board's reports and free test preparation services could be used by all students. Students who choose to participate in services offered by The College Board will be connected to resources and activities designed to help identify next steps for extra support or possible acceleration.

The SAT is closely aligned to challenging classroom work of Colorado schools and focuses on the key skills and concepts that evidence shows matter most for college and career readiness, including:

  • Mathematical concepts, skills, and practices important for success in career training programs.
  • Reading, comprehending, and writing high-quality essays supported by evidence.

The SAT also serves as an admission test and is accepted by every college in the United States. At the time of testing, students can send their scores to up to four colleges for free. The SAT essay can also be taken as part of the Colorado school day SAT administration. The SAT essay is optional and voluntary and can be added at no cost to students.

Tenth graders attending public schools in Colorado began taking PSAT 10 in the spring 2016 and public school 11th graders began taking the SAT in spring, 2017. The CO PSAT 10 and CO SAT will be given each spring for the following five years.

For more information on these tests go to: http://collegeboard.org/colorado

Important PSAT/SAT Dates

Fact Sheet

Khan Academy-free practice tests

Parent info from CDE: https://www.cde.state.co.us/assessment/generalinfo-parents

*More information will be added as we get it.