The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is a test that allows students to practice for the SAT. This test measures skills in the following areas: reading, writing and language, and math. It also gives students the opportunity to enter the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) scholarship programs for junior students.
Reasons to take the PSAT/NMSQT:
We recommend that you take the PSAT/NMSQT as a sophomore (at the earliest) or as a junior. If you take it as a sophomore, don't be discouraged if your scores are lower than you had expected. Remember, this is a junior level test. Taking it as a sophomore will best prepare you to take in junior year, the year that PSAT takers can qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Corporation competition.
Students must register to take the PSAT at Southwest. Stay tuned to weekly emails from Southwest for information about how to register for the PSAT. PSAT registration typically happens in Sept/Oct. This year the PSAT will take place during the school day on Wednesday, October 30, 2019.
The following resources from CollegeBoard can help you understand your PSAT scores and determine your next steps.
The New SAT (as of March 2016):