Why Offer the PSAT/NMSQT?

The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) provides educators with actionable data to measure student progress and connect them to recognition programs.

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Monitor Progress and Inform Instruction

The PSAT/NMSQT, given to both 10th and 11th graders, provides an objective measure of the core skills needed for any postsecondary pathway and benefits both educators and students.

Administrative Flexibility

As a digital test, the PSAT/NMSQT is shorter and can be administered in a flexible fall semester scheduling window to preserve instructional time. 

Build Momentum

Students get familiar with the test format using the same digital platform as the SAT and AP Exams. Historically, students who took the PSAT/NMSQT scored higher on the SAT, on average, than those who didn’t take the assessment.

Data-Informed Instruction

When used with other tests in the SAT Suite, it helps educators measure year-over-year performance from the aggregate to individual level. Results typically come within two weeks of testing, allowing educators to quickly address instructional needs. 

What's on the Test?

Connect Students to Scholarships and Recognition Programs

National Merit Scholarship Program

The PSAT/NMSQT is the only qualifying test for the National Merit® Scholarship Program, an academic competition for recognition and scholarships conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).

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Scholarship Opportunities

Taking the PSAT/NMSQT gives students the chance to access over $300 million in scholarship opportunities.

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National Recognition Program

Students in 10th and 11th grade who take eligible administrations of the PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, or AP Exams and demonstrate academic achievement are eligible for the College Board National Recognition Program, an award that helps students stand out to colleges and scholarship providers.

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4 Reasons to Offer the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10

Watch, then share this short video to learn why offering the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10 is a smart choice, benefiting both educators and students.

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4 Reasons to Offer the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10

Expand Access to AP

Help more students take at least one AP course to build confidence and skills needed for high school, college, and career success. AP courses also give students the opportunity to earn college credit in high school. The AP Potential™ tool is designed to help identify 9th–11th-grade students who are ready for AP based on their performance on the PSAT/NMSQT and other tests in the SAT Suite.

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Free Access to Practice Resources

We provide students with free, world-class practice resources in the Bluebook testing app to help them succeed and get familiar with the test. These include full-length practice tests, a student question bank, and exclusive Khan Academy® courses.

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The Power to Plan—on Their Terms, With Their Device

Students age 13 and older who take an SAT Suite assessment on a school day can view their scores through the BigFuture® School mobile app, which includes career insights, to discover options based on their strengths. In schools where available, students can opt in to Connections™ to discover nonprofit colleges and scholarship providers actively looking for students like them and match their interests. These tools are optional and secure, allowing students to choose when and whether to share their information.

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PSAT/NMSQT Educator Resources

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Flyer: Monitor Progress and Enhance Instruction with PSAT-Related Assessments

Schools that give PSAT 8/9, PSAT 10, and PSAT/NMSQT can monitor students’ progress over time, and use results to inform instruction.

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Flyer: Help Students Navigate Their Path with the SAT Suite

The fully digital SAT Suite of Assessments provides in-depth insights to measure and guide student progress throughout high school.

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Test Dates and Deadlines

Here, you’ll find key dates for testing, including ordering, registration, training, access, and readiness dates.

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Flyer: Powering Career Possibilities Through College Board Programs

How can students be motivated to gain the skills they need to succeed after high school? Learn how College Board programs help students navigate career options and accelerate their entry toward postsecondary choices.

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Comparison: PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10

See how the PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10 are different.

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Flyer for Families: Power Their Path with the PSAT/NMSQT

The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) measures the knowledge and skills your teen will need for whatever their post-high school goals may be.

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Folleto para Familias: Impulsar su Camino

El examen Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) mide los conocimientos y destrezas que su hija/hijo adolescente necesitará, sin importar cuáles sean sus objetivos posteriores a la escuela secundaria.

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