You probably took, or will take, the PSAT (Preliminary SAT) in the fall of your junior year, and perhaps you took it, or will take it, in your sophomore year as well. The purpose for taking this exam is for you to gain experience taking the type of standardized tests used in college admissions. In addition, the score you received on the PSAT in your junior year is used to determine your eligibility for competition in the National Merit and other scholarship competitions. The PSAT does not play a role in the college admissions process.