More than 500 sophomores and juniors reported to their assigned classrooms to take the PSAT on Oct 20. The test lasted from 9 a.m. to noon and staff members proctored the test in each classroom.

Junior Nikki Thareja said although the test was long, studying for the upcoming SAT in January helped make the test more reasonable.

“After going through the whole SAT process, it’s not that bad anymore. My prep for the SAT has been my prep for the PSAT,” Thareja said.

Thareja also took the PSAT last year and thinks that both tests were very similar.

“I felt like  this year the math section was a little bit more difficult, but they were both very doable,” Thareja said.

Many of the juniors were hoping that their performance would ultimately lead to recognition as National Merit Scholars.

To ensure the integrity of the tests, students were required to show identification and were prohibited from using any electronics. The precautions were consistent with last year, but Thareja saw a slight increase in attention to smaller details like keeping bags zipped and underneath desks.