What is the PSAT/NMSQT test and why should I be interested in taking it?

The Preliminary SAT®/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test is a co-sponsored program by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).

PSAT/NMSQT stands for Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. PSAT/NMSQT is a standardized test that gives you firsthand practice for the SAT Reasoning Test and SAT Subject Tests. It also gives you a chance to enter National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) scholarship programs.

The PSAT/NMSQT measures the critical reading, math problem-solving, and writing skills that you've been developing throughout your life. It does not measure things like creativity and motivation, and it doesn't recognize those special talents that may be important to colleges.

Interactive Practice Questions: Sample math, critical reading, and writing questions with answers and explanations can help you prepare for the test day. Click here to get started.

PSAT/NMSQT Score Reports are mailed to high school principals and are usually available to students after Thanksgiving.

Why Take the PSAT/NMSQT?

So you can . . .

Compare yourself with other college-bound students around the country.
Find out what the SAT is like. (The PSAT/NMSQT includes actual SAT questions.)
Assess your verbal, math, and writing skills.
Forecast your SAT scores.
Qualify for scholarships and special recognition programs.
Participate in the Student Search Service^® to get mail from colleges.
Enter National Merit Scholarship Corporation scholarship competitions.

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