What’s the difference between the PSAT and the SAT?

As far as the tests themselves are concerned, almost nothing. The PSAT doesn’t have an essay, and it’s shorter – other than that, both tests are exactly the same. They test the same material, have the same structure and format, and require the same knowledge and strategies. Functionally, they’re different because the SAT can be used for college admissions, while the PSAT cannot, and the PSAT can be used to put you in the running for a National Merit scholarship, whereas the SAT cannot. If you are getting ready to take the PSAT, studying for the full-length SAT is the best possible strategy for achieving great scores. Basically, you kill two birds with one stone!