PSAT Component Scores as a Predictor of Success on AP Exam Performance for Diverse Students

While studies have shown the positive effect of the Advanced Placement (AP) program on college readiness, there are still barriers preventing minority and low socioeconomic status (SES) students who possess high academic potential from participating in the opportunity that AP courses offer. One tool that could help identify students for participation in AP courses is their Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) results. Results from multiple regression analyses suggest that portions of the PSAT are significant predictors of AP test performance above and beyond student ethnicity and/or SES.