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All About the PSAT

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What is the PSAT?

The PSAT/NMSQT stands for the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which students take as a sophomore or junior. High scores on the PSAT/NMSQT can qualify you for a National Merit Scholarship.

 

How Is the PSAT Timed?

Two hours and 45 minutes for the PSAT 10 and PSAT/NMSQT.

On the PSAT/NMSQT, 60 minutes is allotted for reading, 35 for writing and language, and 70 for math. These test-takers will see 47 questions or tasks in reading, 44 in writing and language, and 48 in math.

 

What are the advantages of taking the PSAT?

A High PSAT Score Can Lead to a National Merit Scholarship

 

How is the PSAT Scored?

All versions of the PSAT are scored based on two sections: evidence-based reading and writing, and math. On all three exams, the score is calculated by combining the results from the reading and writing section and the math portion.

When is the PSAT?

The PSAT (Preliminary SAT) test is often offered to most 11th graders in high schools during the fall of their junior year. The specific timing and administration of the PSAT may vary from one school to another. Please check with your school's administration or guidance counselor for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding PSAT testing at your school.

 

Where and when to check the score:

When your scores are ready, you can access them online if you have a College Board account. You can also use the BigFuture School ® app if you opted in on test day. Which date you will receive your scores depends on which date you tested and when your answers were submitted. PSAT scores are typically released 4-6 weeks after the exam

 

Is it a big deal to be a National Merit Semifinalist/Scholar?

Gaining recognition as a National Merit Semifinalist is a prestigious achievement to include on college applications, and many colleges and corporate sponsors offer special scholarships to these students, even if they don't become finalists.

 

What GPA do you need to be a National Merit Scholar?

You must maintain a 3.5 or higher GPA to qualify for the application process and maintain that GPA throughout your four years of high school.

 

What SAT score is required for National Merit Scholarship?

The National Merit Corporation is first and foremost looking to award academic achievement. There is no strict cutoff, but a competitive GPA (3.5 and above) and high SAT scores (approximately 1400 and above) are recommended. Your academic record should also show that you challenged yourself with honors and AP classes.

 

What percent of people get National Merit finalist?

About 95 percent of the Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing, and about half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar® title. The release is made available here to provide information about the National Merit Scholarship Program.

 

What is the 4 digit act code for National Merit Scholarship?

NMSC does not automatically know your SAT and ACT scores. You must submit them just as you would to a college. The College Board code for NMSC is 0085. The ACT code is 7984.

 

How do I know if I was a National Merit Scholar?

Finalists are notified in early February by mail at their home addresses. A student may also access their Finalist letter through their Online Scholarship Application account. See the National Merit® Scholarship Program page for additional details

 

What PSAT score is needed to be a National Merit Scholar?

More info, please check the official website: https://www.nationalmerit.org/s/1758/interior.aspx?sid=1758&gid=2&pgid=434#:~:text=Finalists%20are%20notified%20in%20early,Program%20page%20for%20additional%20details.

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