PSAT FAQ

What Is The PSAT?

The PSAT stands for the Preliminary SAT, and it is a standardized test that is designed to prepare students for the SAT, which is a college admissions test. The PSAT is offered to high school students in the United States in their sophomore or junior year, depending on the school district.

The PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is the version of the PSAT that is used to determine eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program. This test is typically taken by high school juniors in October.

The PSAT/NMSQT is a multiple-choice test that covers reading, writing, and math. The reading and writing sections assess reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar, while the math section covers algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. The test is scored on a scale of 320 to 1520, with a separate score reported for each of the three sections.

The PSAT/NMSQT is an important test for students who are planning to attend college, as it provides a preview of the SAT and can help students identify areas where they need to improve their skills. The test also provides feedback on academic strengths and weaknesses, and it can help students determine which advanced courses they may want to take in high school to better prepare for college. Additionally, the PSAT/NMSQT is used by some colleges and universities to identify potential scholarship recipients.

Will my child’s PSAT score be sent to colleges?

No, your child’s PSAT score will not be sent to colleges as part of their college application process. The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is a practice test for the SAT and is used primarily to determine eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program. While some colleges may use PSAT scores as part of their recruitment and scholarship selection process, they do not receive official score reports from the College Board, the organization that administers the PSAT. However, when your child takes the actual SAT, their scores will be reported to colleges if they choose to send their scores as part of their college application.

What topics are covered in the PSAT?

The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is a standardized test that covers three main subjects: Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. The reading section measures a student’s ability to comprehend and analyze passages from various texts. The Writing and Language section measures a student’s ability to revise and edit written English language passages. The math section measures a student’s ability in problem-solving and data analysis, algebra, and advanced math topics such as geometry and trigonometry. In addition to the main sections, the PSAT/NMSQT also includes an optional essay section, which requires students to analyze and respond to a given prompt.

What Is The National Merit Scholarship Program?

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic scholarship competition in the United States. It is administered by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), a nonprofit organization that was established in 1955.

The program recognizes and rewards outstanding high school students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and potential for success in college. The National Merit Scholarship Program awards scholarships to students who score in the top 1% on the PSAT/NMSQT, which is a standardized test that is administered to high school juniors in the United States.

Each year, approximately 1.5 million students take the PSAT/NMSQT, and about 50,000 of those students are recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Of those 50,000 students, approximately 16,000 are named National Merit Semifinalists, and about 7,500 are ultimately awarded National Merit Scholarships.

The National Merit Scholarship Program offers three types of scholarships: National Merit Scholarships, Corporate-Sponsored Merit Scholarships, and College-Sponsored Merit Scholarships. National Merit Scholarships are awarded directly by the NMSC, while Corporate-Sponsored and College-Sponsored Merit Scholarships are awarded by businesses and universities that participate in the program.

In summary, the National Merit Scholarship Program is an academic scholarship competition that recognizes and rewards outstanding high school students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and potential for success in college. The program awards scholarships to students who score in the top 1% on the PSAT/NMSQT, and it offers three types of scholarships: National Merit Scholarships, Corporate-Sponsored Merit Scholarships, and College-Sponsored Merit Scholarships.

When Do I Find Out My Scores?

For the PSAT/NMSQT, scores are typically released online in mid-December. Students can log in to their College Board account to view their scores and access their detailed score report. In addition to the overall score, the report includes section scores, subscores, and other detailed information about the student’s performance on the test.

For the PSAT 10 and PSAT 8/9 tests, scores are usually available online within two weeks after the test is administered. Students can access their scores through their College Board account.

It’s important to note that the exact release date of scores may vary slightly from year to year, and it’s a good idea to check with your school or the College Board for the most up-to-date information on score release dates.

Is the PSAT free?

The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is not free, but it is often administered at no cost to students in their junior year of high school if their school chooses to participate in the program. The cost of the test is typically covered by the school or school district, and students do not need to pay a fee to take it. However, some schools may choose to charge students a fee to cover administrative costs or may offer the test on a voluntary basis for a fee. It’s best to check with your school’s guidance counselor or testing coordinator to find out about the specific policies and fees related to the PSAT/NMSQT at your school.

How Many People Take The PSAT?

Each year, approximately 3.5 million high school students take the PSAT (Preliminary SAT) test in the United States. However, it’s important to note that not all of these students take the PSAT/NMSQT, which is the version of the test that is used for National Merit Scholarship qualification. The PSAT/NMSQT is taken by high school juniors, and it is typically administered in October. The number of students who take the PSAT/NMSQT each year is usually around 1.5 million.

Is the PSAT the same as the SAT?

The PSAT (Preliminary SAT), specifically the PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test), is considered more important than the SAT for scholarships because it serves as the qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship Program. The National Merit Scholarship Program is a highly competitive scholarship program that awards scholarships to students who score in the top 1% of PSAT test-takers in their state.

By contrast, the SAT is not directly tied to any particular scholarship program, although it is a widely used standardized test for college admissions. However, some colleges and universities may offer merit-based scholarships based on SAT scores, and achieving a high score on the SAT can certainly help a student stand out in the college admissions process.

It’s important to note that while the PSAT/NMSQT is important for National Merit Scholarship eligibility, it is not the only factor considered in the selection process. Other factors, such as academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and community service, may also be taken into consideration. Additionally, there are many other scholarships available that do not require PSAT/NMSQT participation, and students should research and apply for all scholarships for which they are eligible.

How Do You Qualify for the National Merit Scholarship?

To qualify for the National Merit Scholarship, you must take the PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) during your junior year of high school. The PSAT/NMSQT is usually administered in October, and you will need to register for the exam through your high school.

The PSAT/NMSQT is a standardized test that assesses your skills in reading, writing, and math. The test is used to identify students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and potential for success in college.

The selection process for the National Merit Scholarship is highly competitive. Approximately 1.5 million students take the PSAT/NMSQT each year, and only about 50,000 of those students qualify for recognition by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). Of those 50,000 students, only about 16,000 are named National Merit Semifinalists, and only about 7,500 are ultimately awarded National Merit Scholarships.

To become a National Merit Semifinalist, you must score in the top 1% of test-takers in your state. The exact cutoff score varies by state and from year to year. Semifinalists must then complete an application, submit SAT scores, and provide additional information about their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and leadership roles. From there, approximately 15,000 Semifinalists are named Finalists, and about half of those Finalists are ultimately awarded National Merit Scholarships.

In summary, to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship, you must take the PSAT/NMSQT in your junior year of high school and score in the top 1% of test-takers in your state. However, scoring in the top 1% does not guarantee recognition by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, as the selection process is highly competitive and based on a combination of academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and leadership roles.

What You Need To Know About The National Merit Scholarship

The National Merit Scholarship is a highly prestigious scholarship program that recognizes and rewards academically talented high school students in the United States. Here are some things you need to know about the National Merit Scholarship:

1. Eligibility: To be eligible for the National Merit Scholarship, students must take the PSAT/NMSQT in their junior year of high school. Students who score in the top 1% in their state are named National Merit Semifinalists, and they must meet additional criteria, such as submitting SAT scores and maintaining a strong academic record, to become Finalists.
2. Recognition: National Merit Semifinalists and Finalists receive recognition from their high schools and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) for their outstanding academic achievements. Semifinalists receive a Certificate of Merit, while Finalists receive a Letter of Commendation or a Merit Scholarship award.
3. Scholarships: National Merit Scholarship awards include both one-time and renewable scholarships. One-time awards are $2,500, while renewable scholarships can range from $500 to $10,000 per year. Some colleges and universities also offer scholarships to National Merit Finalists, which can cover the full cost of tuition and fees.
4. Selection: National Merit Scholars are selected based on a combination of academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership, and community service. The selection process is highly competitive, with only about 7,500 students receiving National Merit Scholarships each year out of the approximately 1.5 million students who take the PSAT/NMSQT.
5. Benefits: Winning a National Merit Scholarship can provide many benefits, including financial assistance for college, recognition for academic achievements, and opportunities for networking and leadership development.

It’s important to note that the National Merit Scholarship Program is just one of many scholarship programs available to high school students. Students should research and apply for all scholarships for which they are eligible to maximize their opportunities for financial assistance for college.

How Difficult Is It To Qualify for the National Merit Scholarship?

Qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship is highly competitive, and it is considered one of the most challenging academic competitions in the United States. Approximately 1.5 million students take the PSAT/NMSQT each year, and only about 50,000 of those students qualify for recognition by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).

To become a National Merit Semifinalist, you must score in the top 1% of test-takers in your state. The exact cutoff score varies by state and from year to year, and it is not based on a fixed score or percentile. The cutoff score is determined by the NMSC based on the number of Semifinalists they wish to name in each state.

Once you become a Semifinalist, you must complete an application, submit SAT scores, and provide additional information about your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and leadership roles. From there, approximately 15,000 Semifinalists are named Finalists, and about half of those Finalists are ultimately awarded National Merit Scholarships.

In summary, qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship is difficult and highly competitive. It requires exceptional academic ability, strong test-taking skills, and a record of outstanding achievement in academics, extracurricular activities, and leadership. However, while the competition is tough, it is not impossible, and many high-achieving students have been able to earn recognition and scholarships through the program.

When Do I Have To Take The PSAT In Order To Be In The Competition?

To be eligible for the National Merit Scholarship Program, you must take the PSAT/NMSQT in your junior year of high school. The test is typically administered in October, although some schools may offer the test on an alternate date for students who are unable to take it on the primary test date.

It’s important to note that taking the PSAT/NMSQT is the only way to enter the National Merit Scholarship Program competition. If you do not take the test, you cannot qualify for the program or be considered for a National Merit Scholarship.

While the PSAT/NMSQT is only offered once a year, there is also a PSAT 10 test that is administered to high school sophomores. This test is not used for National Merit Scholarship qualification, but it can be a helpful tool for students who want to practice for the PSAT/NMSQT or get a preview of the types of questions they will encounter on the test.

What Is The Highest PSAT Cut-Off Score Of Any State? The Lowest?

The highest PSAT cutoff score for National Merit Semifinalist qualification varies from year to year and from state to state. It is determined by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) based on the number of test-takers and the overall scores on the PSAT/NMSQT in each state.

In recent years, the highest cutoff score has typically been in California, with cutoff scores ranging from 220-223 in recent years. However, other states such as Massachusetts and New Jersey have also had very high cutoff scores in recent years.

The lowest cutoff score for National Merit Semifinalist qualification also varies by state and year. In some states, the cutoff score can be as low as 202, while in others it may be as high as 222. It’s important to note that the cutoff score can vary from year to year based on the overall performance of test-takers, and that it is ultimately determined by the NMSC.

I Received A Letter From The NMSC Telling Me I Am A “Top-Scorer”. What Is That?

If you received a letter from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) telling you that you are a “top-scorer,” it means that you performed very well on the PSAT/NMSQT and that you are in the running for National Merit Scholarship recognition.

The NMSC sends letters to students who score in the top 3-4% of PSAT/NMSQT test-takers in their state. These letters serve as a preliminary notification that you may be eligible for National Merit Scholarship recognition, although they do not guarantee that you will ultimately be named a National Merit Semifinalist.

If you received a “top-scorer” letter from the NMSC, it’s a good indication that you should continue to prepare for the possibility of being named a National Merit Semifinalist, which is the next step in the competition. To become a Semifinalist, you will need to meet additional requirements, including submitting an application and meeting certain academic standards.

What Happens To The Other Top Scorers?

While only the top 1% of PSAT/NMSQT test-takers in each state qualify for National Merit Semifinalist consideration, other high-performing students are still recognized for their achievements through the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Students who score in the top 3-4% of test-takers in their state, but who do not meet the National Merit Semifinalist cutoff score, are recognized as Commended Students. These students receive a Letter of Commendation from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which acknowledges their outstanding academic performance and serves as a distinction on their college applications.

Additionally, some colleges and universities offer merit scholarships based on PSAT/NMSQT scores, even for students who do not qualify for National Merit recognition. These scholarships may have different cutoff scores and selection criteria than the National Merit Scholarship Program, so it’s important for students to research the scholarships available at the schools they are interested in attending.

Why Isn’t There A National NMSF Cut-Off? Why Do This State-By-State?

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) determines the National Merit Semifinalist cutoff scores state-by-state rather than having a national cutoff score for several reasons.

First, the number of National Merit Semifinalists is proportional to the number of juniors in each state who take the PSAT/NMSQT. Since the number of test-takers varies from state to state, having a single cutoff score for the entire country would not accurately reflect the distribution of high-performing students in each state.

Second, the PSAT/NMSQT is designed to be an assessment of college readiness that reflects the curriculum and academic standards of each state. Since educational standards vary from state to state, a single national cutoff score would not account for differences in academic rigor and preparation across states.

By determining cutoff scores state-by-state, the NMSC is able to ensure that National Merit Semifinalists are chosen based on their performance relative to their peers within their state, and that students in each state have an equal chance to be recognized for their academic achievements.

Is The Cut-Off Determined By The Top 1% Of Scorers In The State?

The cutoff score for National Merit Semifinalist qualification is not determined by the top 1% of scorers in the state. Instead, the cutoff score is determined by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) based on the scores of all test-takers across the country.

Each year, the NMSC determines a selection index score that serves as the cutoff for National Merit Semifinalist qualification. The selection index score is calculated based on the sum of the PSAT/NMSQT scores in the Reading, Writing and Language, and Math sections, with each section score ranging from 160 to 760. The maximum possible selection index score is 228, and the minimum qualifying score varies from state to state and from year to year.

While the top 1% of test-takers in each state may include many students who achieve a high PSAT/NMSQT score, not all of these students will necessarily qualify as National Merit Semifinalists. It’s the students who achieve a qualifying selection index score who will be named Semifinalists, regardless of how many other students in their state achieve high scores.

How Do I Make NMSF And When Do I Find Out?

To become a National Merit Semifinalist, you must meet the eligibility requirements set by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). These requirements include scoring in the top 1% of PSAT/NMSQT test-takers in your state and meeting other academic criteria such as maintaining a high GPA.

If you meet these eligibility requirements, you will be named a National Merit Semifinalist in the fall of your senior year of high school. The NMSC will notify your high school and provide you with instructions on how to proceed with the competition.

To move on to the next stage of the competition, you must submit a detailed application that includes information about your academic record, extracurricular activities, and other accomplishments. You will also need to take the SAT and achieve a qualifying score.

If you are named a National Merit Semifinalist, congratulations! This is a great achievement and puts you in the running for a National Merit Scholarship. However, it’s important to keep in mind that becoming a Finalist and ultimately winning a scholarship are still competitive processes that require additional work and qualifications.

What Are The Qualifications To Go From NMSF To NMF?

To become a National Merit Finalist (NMF), National Merit Semifinalists (NMSF) must meet several additional requirements. These requirements include:

1. Completing the National Merit Scholarship Application: NMSF must submit a detailed scholarship application that includes information about their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and leadership positions. This application is used to determine which students meet the criteria for National Merit Finalist status.
2. Achieving a qualifying SAT score: NMSF must take the SAT and achieve a score that confirms their PSAT/NMSQT performance. The score required to become a National Merit Finalist varies by state and year.
3. Having a strong academic record: NMF candidates must have a record of consistently high academic performance throughout high school.
4. Submitting a recommendation from a high school official: NMSF must submit a recommendation from a high school official, such as a guidance counselor or principal, to confirm their academic and personal qualities.

Once these requirements are met, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation will designate National Merit Finalists in each state, who are eligible to compete for National Merit Scholarships.

Does My SAT Score Need To “Match” My PSAT Score?

Your SAT score does not need to “match” your PSAT score, but there is a general correlation between the two tests. The PSAT/NMSQT is designed to be a practice test for the SAT and has a similar format and content. The PSAT/NMSQT score can give you an idea of how you might perform on the SAT and can help you identify areas where you may need to improve.

That being said, it’s important to keep in mind that the SAT is a longer and more challenging test than the PSAT/NMSQT. Your score on the SAT may be higher or lower than your PSAT/NMSQT score, depending on a variety of factors, including your preparation, test-taking strategies, and the difficulty level of the particular test form you take.

It’s also worth noting that your PSAT/NMSQT score is not used directly in the college admissions process. However, being recognized as a National Merit Semifinalist or Finalist based on your PSAT/NMSQT score can be a valuable addition to your college applications and can open up additional scholarship opportunities.

Which NMF Students Are Named National Merit Scholars?

All National Merit Finalists (NMFs) are eligible for National Merit Scholarships. However, not all National Merit Finalists are ultimately named National Merit Scholars.

To be considered for a National Merit Scholarship, a National Merit Finalist must meet several requirements, including:

1. Be enrolled as a high school student, progressing normally toward graduation or completion of high school, and planning to enroll full-time in college no later than the fall following completion of high school;
2. Be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident of the United States;
3. Take the SAT or ACT and earn scores that confirm the PSAT/NMSQT performance that resulted in Semifinalist standing;
4. Complete and submit a detailed scholarship application, which includes academic transcripts, a list of extracurricular activities and awards, an essay, and a recommendation from a high school official;
5. Meet other published program entry and participation requirements.

National Merit Scholarship winners are chosen from the group of Finalists based on their abilities, skills, and accomplishments. There is no set number of scholarships awarded each year, and the amount and type of scholarship awards can vary.

So, to answer your question, all National Merit Finalists are eligible for National Merit Scholarships, but not all Finalists are named National Merit Scholars. National Merit Scholars are chosen from the group of Finalists based on their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and other factors.

How Many Students Go From NMSF To NMF?

Each year, approximately 15,000 students are named National Merit Semifinalists (NMSF) and about half of them become National Merit Finalists (NMF). The exact number of NMFs can vary from year to year and from state to state, depending on the number of semifinalists and the number of available scholarships.

For example, in 2022, there were 15,000 semifinalists, and 7,500 of them became finalists. From those finalists, about 2,500 students were ultimately awarded National Merit Scholarships. The number of NMFs can vary by state, depending on the number of semifinalists in each state and the cutoff score for that state.

It’s worth noting that becoming a National Merit Semifinalist or Finalist is a significant academic achievement, regardless of whether or not a student ultimately receives a scholarship. These designations can be a valuable addition to a student’s college application and can indicate to colleges and universities that a student has achieved academic excellence and has the potential to succeed in college and beyond.

When Are Students Named NMF?

Students who are named National Merit Finalists (NMF) are typically notified in February of their senior year of high school. The exact date can vary slightly from year to year, but it is typically around the second week of February.

At that time, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) will send a letter to each finalist’s high school principal, who will then inform the student of their finalist status. The letter will also include information on the next steps in the scholarship competition, which may include additional applications, essays, and interviews.

It’s important to note that not all National Merit Finalists will receive a National Merit Scholarship. Finalists who do receive scholarships will be notified in the spring of their senior year, typically in late March or early April.

Does It Matter If My School Has A LOT Of NMSFs? Will That Hurt My Chances Of Making NMF?

No, it does not matter if your school has a lot of National Merit Semifinalists (NMSFs). The National Merit Scholarship Program does not limit the number of students who can become National Merit Finalists or National Merit Scholars from any one school.

The selection process for National Merit Semifinalists and Finalists is based solely on a student’s PSAT/NMSQT scores and does not take into account the number of other students from their school who may also qualify. The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) determines the cutoff scores for each state based on the distribution of scores for that state, and students who meet or exceed the cutoff score are named Semifinalists.

Once students become Semifinalists, they must complete additional requirements and meet certain qualifications to become Finalists and potentially National Merit Scholars. These qualifications include academic performance, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and essays.

In summary, your chances of becoming a National Merit Finalist or Scholar are based solely on your PSAT/NMSQT scores and your own achievements, not on the number of other students from your school who may also qualify.

What Can I Do To Improve My Chances Of Making NMSF?

If you are hoping to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program and become a National Merit Semifinalist (NMSF), there are several things you can do to improve your chances:

1. Start early: The PSAT/NMSQT is typically administered in October of your junior year, so it’s important to start preparing early. Consider taking the PSAT/NMSQT as a sophomore as well, to gain experience and identify areas where you need to improve.
2. Study for the PSAT/NMSQT: Familiarize yourself with the format and content of the PSAT/NMSQT and practice taking sample tests. There are many online resources and study guides available to help you prepare.
3. Focus on your academics: The PSAT/NMSQT is just one factor in the National Merit Scholarship Program selection process. Your grades and academic record are also important, so make sure to prioritize your studies and strive for academic excellence.
4. Get involved in extracurricular activities: The NMSC considers a student’s extracurricular activities and leadership experience when selecting NMSFs. Participate in clubs and organizations that interest you, and consider taking on leadership roles.
5. Seek out academic and extracurricular honors: Awards and honors in academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities can help demonstrate your excellence and dedication.
6. Talk to your school counselor: Your school counselor can provide guidance on the National Merit Scholarship Program and help you understand the steps you need to take to qualify.

Remember, qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship Program is a competitive process, but if you work hard and prepare, you can improve your chances of becoming an NMSF.

When Are Rejected Students Notified?

Students who do not qualify as National Merit Semifinalists (NMSF) are typically not notified directly by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). Instead, students will receive their PSAT/NMSQT scores and any recognition they may have received, such as Commended Student status, through their high school.

Students who apply to become National Merit Finalists (NMF) but are not selected to receive a scholarship will also not receive direct notification from the NMSC. Instead, they will be informed of their status by their high school principal.

It’s important to keep in mind that being recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program is just one of many ways to achieve academic recognition and merit scholarships for college. Many colleges and universities offer merit-based scholarships, which may have different criteria and requirements than the National Merit Scholarship Program. Students should research all available scholarships and opportunities to find the best fit for their goals and qualifications.

Do I Have To Name A “First Choice School” Before the Spring Of Senior Year?

Yes, National Merit Finalists (NMFs) are required to name a first-choice college or university by the spring of their senior year of high school to be considered for National Merit Scholarship awards.

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) requires NMFs to select a first-choice institution through their online portal by a specified deadline, usually in late May. This is necessary to match Finalists with scholarships sponsored by specific colleges and universities.

It is important to note that Finalists can still receive National Merit Scholarship awards if they ultimately attend a different college or university than their first-choice institution. However, Finalists are encouraged to carefully consider their options and select a first-choice school that they would be happy to attend.

If a Finalist fails to select a first-choice institution by the deadline, they may forfeit their eligibility for certain National Merit Scholarship awards. Therefore, Finalists need to follow the instructions and deadlines provided by the NMSC to maximize their chances of receiving a scholarship award.

My School Doesn’t Offer The PSAT To All Junior Students. What Should I Do?

If your school does not offer the PSAT/NMSQT to all junior students, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you have the opportunity to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program:

1. Talk to your school counselor: Explain your situation to your school counselor and ask if there are any alternative testing options available to you. Your counselor may be able to work with you to arrange for you to take the PSAT/NMSQT at another school in your area or suggest other options.
2. Consider taking the PSAT/NMSQT outside of school: Some students choose to take the PSAT/NMSQT on their own by registering for the test at a nearby school that offers it to all juniors. Check with the College Board website for a list of schools in your area that offer the test to all juniors.
3. Look for other qualifying tests: While the PSAT/NMSQT is the most common route to qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship Program, other tests can qualify you, such as the SAT or ACT. Check with the NMSC website for a full list of qualifying tests and score requirements.
4. Practice and prepare: Regardless of how you take the qualifying test, it’s important to practice and prepare thoroughly to maximize your chances of qualifying. Use online resources and study guides to help you prepare, and take practice tests to identify areas where you need to improve.

Remember, the National Merit Scholarship Program is highly competitive, and many qualified students do not make it to the semifinalist or finalist stage. However, if you work hard and take advantage of all available opportunities, you can increase your chances of success.