When is the PSAT not a Practice Test?

Do you know the entire name of the PSAT test? It is officially the PSAT/ NMSQT test. “NMSQT” stands for “National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test”. The only time you can be consider for the National Merit Scholarship is during your junior year. Taking the PSAT is the only way to be considered.

Taking the PSAT by Grade Level

• Freshman year– It is your first opportunity to take a college prep standardized test. Check to see if your school allows freshmen to take the PSAT/NMSQT.  The school may want you to take the new PSAT 9 in the fall or the spring.
• Sophomore year– Take it more seriously- this is the last time you can take this test and not have it sent to the colleges. You may be taking the new PSAT 10 in fall or spring.
• Junior year– Game time! Prepare just as you have for the SAT test. Do your best on this PSAT/NMSQT test. You will have colleges knocking at your door if you do!

Take Action

Update your testing schedule in a file created on your computer with the PSAT for the fall. Check with your counselor for registration and test dates.