As your student moves through high school, the first important testing milestone is the PSAT/NMSQT—a test that not only prepares students for the SAT but can also open the door to prestigious scholarships and academic recognition.
Here’s what you should know as you look ahead to sophomore and junior year testing.
🎙️Listen to these expert discussions on The New Digital PSAT, How To Prep For The Digital PSAT, Should You Prepare For The PSAT?
🧠 What Is the PSAT/NMSQT?
The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is typically taken in October of junior year, though some students may take a practice version in 10th grade. Administered by the College Board, the PSAT:
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Provides valuable SAT practice
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Gives students a sense of national academic standing
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Serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program
🏅 What Is the National Merit Scholarship Program?
Each year, about 1.3 million juniors take the PSAT/NMSQT, but only the top ~1% per state become National Merit Semifinalists. These students are then invited to compete for Finalist status and, ultimately, a National Merit Scholarship or other academic awards.
National Merit recognition can lead to:
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Prestigious honors that boost college applications
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Scholarships from universities, corporations, and foundations
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Automatic admissions and full-ride offers at select colleges
🔍 When Should My Student Take the PSAT?
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Sophomore Year (10th grade):
Many schools offer the PSAT 10 in the fall or spring. While it doesn't count for scholarships, it's excellent early practice. -
Junior Year (11th grade):
This is the official year to qualify for National Merit. The PSAT/NMSQT is usually given in early-October, so it's best to prepare the summer or fall before.
📈 How Can My Student Prepare?
To maximize performance and scholarship eligibility, encourage your student to:
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Take practice tests under timed conditions
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Review math, reading, and writing skills
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Enroll in targeted test prep programs or tutoring
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Start early—especially if they’re aiming for National Merit recognition
🎓 What Scores Are Needed for National Merit?
Each year’s qualifying score (called the Selection Index (ranges from 48-228) varies by state. For context:
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A Selection Index of ~216 or above (based on PSAT scores) is typically needed in Ohio to qualify for National Merit Semi-Finalist status. These are the students who will compete for the scholarships.
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A Selection Index of ~209 -212 (based on PSAT scores) is typically needed in the USA to qualify for National Merit Commended status. This can serve as outstanding recognition on your college applications.
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Students can review scores in December and compare them to past benchmarks to detremine if they may qulaifu in their senior year.
📬 What Should Parents Do Now?
✅ Mark your calendar for PSAT test dates
✅ Talk with your school counselor about opportunities to take the test
✅ Start exploring prep resources if your student is aiming for high scores
✅ Stay tuned for updates—results come out in December of junior year
The PSAT is more than a practice test—it can be the first step toward powerful scholarship opportunities and standout college applications.
Whether it's a group class in-person or online, or one-on-one tutoring, we have options to achieve your PSAT goals! Have questions about PSAT prep or National Merit strategies? Reach out to us at Seeley Test Pros & LEAP—we’re here to support your student’s success.