A good PSAT score for a freshman varies depending on the version of the test taken and the student's goals, but generally: For the PSAT/NMSQT (typically taken by 10th-11th graders but sometimes by freshmen):

• A composite score around 1050 or higher is considered good, placing a freshman roughly in the 70th percentile or above.
• Scores of 1170 or above are excellent (90th percentile).
• Top scores (around 1360 and above) are in the 99th percentile, which is exceptional for a freshman.
• Section scores around 540+ in Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (EBRW) and 520+ in Math are good benchmarks for freshmen aiming above average

For the PSAT 8/9 (designed for 8th and 9th graders):

• A composite score near 970 or above is good (75th percentile).
• Scores of about 1100 or more are excellent (90th percentile).
• Top scores (1300+) place students in the 99th percentile

Additional context:

• A score around 900-1000 on the PSAT/NMSQT is a solid start for a freshman and places them above average nationally.
• Scores in the 990-1000 range generally land a freshman in the top 25% of test takers.
• To be in the top 10% as a freshman, a score of approximately 1110 or higher is needed

Freshmen should view the PSAT as a practice tool to identify strengths and weaknesses and aim to improve in subsequent years. The exact "good" score depends on individual goals and school competitiveness, but aiming for the 70th percentile or above is a reasonable target for freshmen. In summary, a good PSAT score for a freshman is roughly:

• PSAT/NMSQT: 1050+ composite
• PSAT 8/9: 970+ composite
• Both indicating performance above the national average and setting a foundation for future tests