Reasons High School Students Should Take the PSAT

Most high school students know that they should expect to take either the Standard Aptitude Test (SAT) or the ACT prior to graduation, since many colleges require one or the other for admission. Few, however, realize that the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) may be just as important. For the most part, the PSAT is taken by high school juniors in October each year, though freshmen and sophomores often participate as well. There are a total of five short sections (two for reading, two for math, one for writing), taking in general a total of 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete. Although it is not a requirement for college acceptance, there are some very compelling reasons why students should consider taking the PSAT.

Reason #1- Great practice for the SAT
The College Board provides each student with a customized study plan based on their PSAT performance, allowing each student to focus on those areas which need the most help. Studies have shown that students who take the exam more than once often score higher on subsequent tests, so students should consider taking the PSAT as early as freshman year. Those who have the opportunity to take the exam several times may also find they are more confident and relaxed when moving on to the SAT or ACT.

Reason #2- Helps connect to colleges
Students who take the PSAT can opt-in to the College Board’s free Student Search Service. This service allows colleges to identify students based on several factors including intended major, grade point average and state residency. Many colleges participate in the Student Search Service, giving students the opportunity to connect with colleges that they may be unfamiliar with or had not previously considered. Students typically receive brochures and other marketing materials, as well as information on campus tours and other upcoming events from the colleges.

Reason #3- Gain access to scholarships!
Perhaps the best thing about the PSAT is the opportunity to earn free money for college. Students who take the test during their junior year may be selected to participate in one of the scholarship or recognition programs directly linked to the exam.

Although students are not required to take the PSAT, the exam does help many prepare for the more rigorous SAT. It is a good measurement of how well a student may score on the SAT and can help them target areas for improvement prior to taking the exam. Students who wish to prepare for the PSAT can find several free practice tests and reading assessments online. 

How to Write an Effective Scholarship Application

The majority of scholarship applications require students to prepare an essay or statement that outlines their eligibility. Preparing these letters takes a certain amount of skill, as each student is striving to make their application look unique. Students should think carefully about how they craft these statements, as they are intended to help selection committees get a better sense of who the applicants really are.

Start your application early. 

Many students do not give themselves enough time to start their applications and find themselves rushing to finish before the deadline. The end result is often a poorly-constructed and weakly-written application. Starting your applications early will give you time to clearly think and articulate your position. Be sure to schedule extra time for editing, especially if someone else will be looking over your paper.

Read through the scholarship application thoroughly. 

Remember that you are not simply listing your accomplishments and goals, but rather responding to a specific set of criteria. Are you being weighed based on academic merit? If so, your application should highlight scholastic achievements and academic performance. Is the applicant being evaluated based on community involvement? Consider outlining you volunteer experience in school, at home, in church or other areas. Student should take time to think about what specific experiences and abilities demonstrate their eligibility.

Start your process by writing an outline. 

Selection committees will often read through hundreds of applications before making a decision. Using simple and concise language that clearly lays out how you meet-and exceed- the criteria will make it easier for the committee members to understand why you are a perfect fit for the scholarship. An outline, using bullet points with main statements, can make it easier for you to structure a powerful and effective application.

Showcase your strengths, but be realistic about your weaknesses. 

Many scholarships seem to look for the perfect, well-rounded candidate- such a student doesn’t exist! Rather, selection committees are looking to learn both about your achievements, and the attitude that got you there. Identifying challenges or adversity you have faced in achieving goals can be a highly effective way of demonstrating both ability and attitude, but be careful not to overdo it.  Discussion should be framed around your strengths, as they relate to the eligibility criteria- after all, why would you want to highlight your weaknesses?