The average PSAT/NMSQT score is around 930–933 out of 1520, which sits right at the national middle of test-takers.

Quick Scoop: Average PSAT Score

  • The average PSAT total score is about 930–933.
  • That typically breaks down to roughly:
    • Reading & Writing (EBRW): about 470.
* **Math:** about **460–462**.
  • Scores range from 320 to 1520 , with each section scored 160–760.

So if you’re around 930, you’re near the national average; higher than that means you’re above the middle of the pack.

What counts as “good” vs average?

Many guides treat scores this way:

  • Around 930: truly average nationally.
  • About 1100–1200: clearly above average, often around the 75th percentile.
  • 1210–1520: often described as a “good to excellent” range, roughly top 10%.

Think of 930 as the “C+/B- line” where half of students are below and half above; crossing into 1100+ usually means you’re doing quite well for college readiness.

Why the average matters for you

  • It helps you see where you stand :
    • Below ~930 → you have lots of room to grow with targeted practice.
    • Around 930 → you’re right in the middle; solid starting point for SAT prep.
    • Well above 930 (especially 1100–1200+) → you’re on a strong trajectory for many four-year colleges.
  • For National Merit dreams, averages don’t matter much: most semifinalists are closer to 1400+ , far above the national mean.

A simple example: if your PSAT is 980, you’re already above the average and likely on track to score over 1100 on the SAT with continued prep.

Mini FAQ

Is the average the same every year?
Not exactly, but it tends to hover close to 930 because the test is designed so that most students cluster near the middle of the scale.

Is the average different for PSAT 10 vs PSAT/NMSQT?
They’re similar, but some data shows PSAT 10 averages around 902 , slightly lower than the PSAT/NMSQT average of about 933.

TL;DR

  • Average PSAT score: about 930–933 out of 1520.
  • Around 930 = typical. 1100–1200+ = clearly above average. 1210–1520 = very strong/top 10%-ish range.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.