Get Familiar with the Digital PSAT/NMSQT

Ask your counselor for more information, including when you'll take it.

Why Take the PSAT/NMSQT?

The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is more than good practice for the SAT, and the scores are more than just a number. With your results you can:

See Your Progress

If you've already taken the PSAT 8/9 or PSAT 10, you'll be able to track your improvement.

See Your Scores

Set a Target

With insights about your knowledge and skills, set your own target SAT score.

Get Tips for Target Scores

Get Your AP Potential

Access personalized recommendations about AP courses that are a good fit.

Learn about AP Potential

Enter the National Merit Scholarship Program

Students who take the PSAT/NMSQT and meet other program entry requirements specified in the PSAT/NMSQT Student Guide will enter the National Merit Scholarship Program, an academic competition for recognition and scholarships conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).

Help Pay for College

Our scholarship partners use the PSAT/NMSQT to find students qualified to apply for their programs. These organizations give out over $300 million in combined awards every year.

Plan for Life After High School

BigFuture School is a free mobile app that delivers PSAT/NMSQT scores right to your mobile phone. You'll also get customized career information and guidance about planning and paying for college. Based on your school or district, you may also be able to use the Connections™ feature, which lets you hear from nonprofit colleges, scholarships and educational organizations that are interested in you.

Phone screen showing BigFuture School Mobile App running

Fast Facts About the PSAT/NMSQT

The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is structured similarly to the SAT.

It has the same sections and timing, and measures the Reading and Writing and Math skills needed to succeed in college and career.

It's given throughout October. Schools decide who can take it and when.

PLAY VIDEO

The PSAT/NMSQT Is Now Digital

Find out what to expect on test day.

Start Preparing with Bluebook™

See the test preview or take a full-length practice test.

Download Bluebook

Resources