What is the PSAT/NMSQT?

In 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation was formed as an independent non-profit organization. It receives no government funds and operates from donations that are tax deductible to the donor. The NMSC has annual competitions by way of the National Achievement Scholarship Program and the National Merit Scholarship Program.

What the NMSC Provides

Since its inception, the NMSC has sought to find and honor the best academically talented high school students in the nation and to find support for their continued education. They also assist other organizations that wish to support and sponsor the further education of outstanding high school students.

One of the ways that the NMSC seeks to guide and help students academically is through the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The test isn't a requirement, but it does a great deal to prepare students for taking the SAT by allowing them to practice and become more confident before they take the test that is so important for college acceptance and scholarship eligibility.

The test not only prepares students for taking the SAT, it provides an opportunity for them to enter the two NMSC sponsored scholarship programs. Also, students have access to tools for career planning to help them with the decision of choosing a college major.

Prepare Your Student with the PSAT/NMSQT

The PSAT/NMSQT prepares students by testing and helping to evaluate problem areas, which include writing and reading skills, and math problem solving skills. While specific facts learned in class are not a part of the test, the content does concentrate on concepts and acquired knowledge that is expected from a student planning on attending college.

Many parents will agree that the PSAT/NMSQT is one of the best ways for students to identify their weaknesses so they can address them and prepare better for taking the SAT. It also indicates where every student stands alongside others applying for college. A simple check mark on the test for "Student Search Service" brings in information on many of the colleges that may be of interest as possible destinations.

Of course, the primary goal of the test is to give students an opportunity to make better test scores on the SAT, receive more college offers, and have more opportunities for college scholarships.

The PSAT/NMSQT is another way to better prepare your student for the challenges of college.