Parents FAQs: PSAT/NMSQT
FAQ
How does a student qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program?
The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual academic competition among high school students for recognition and college scholarships. The program is conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). United States high school students enter the National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit® Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which serves as an initial screen of over 1.3 million entrants each year, and by meeting published program entry and participation requirements. Read the PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide or visit www.nationalmerit.org for more information.
Is the PSAT/NMSQT free?
No, but many students don't have to pay. Some schools cover all or part of that amount. Others charge test administration fees. Talk to your child's school counselor about PSAT/NMSQT fees.
How do students sign up to take the PSAT/NMSQT?
Students sign up at their high school, not through the College Board. Your child should talk to their school counselor in September to learn about their school's PSAT/NMSQT registration process.
Can ninth graders take the PSAT/NMSQT?
Yes, but the PSAT/NMSQT is designed for 10th and 11th graders.
Some schools offer the PSAT 8/9, which tests the same skills as the PSAT/NMSQT, but in ways that are appropriate for earlier grade levels. Check with your child's school counselor to see if your school offers the PSAT 8/9.
Contact National Merit Scholarship Corporation with any questions about eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
How is the PSAT/NMSQT different from the PSAT 10 and PSAT 8/9?
The PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10 are identical. 11th graders (and some 10th graders) take the PSAT/NMSQT in October. The PSAT 10 is given to 10th graders in the spring.
The PSAT 8/9 measures the same skills and knowledge as the other PSAT-related tests, but it's geared to eighth and ninth graders. It serves as a baseline to measure students' progress as they move through high school.
The PSAT/NMSQT is the qualifying test for the National Merit® Scholarship Program. National Merit Scholarship Corporation will not consider scores from the PSAT 10 or PSAT 8/9.
Does the PSAT/NMSQT have an essay?
No, the PSAT/NMSQT does not have an essay.