Qualifying as a National Merit Semifinalist

I'm curious about the qualifications needed to be considered a National Merit Semifinalist. What PSAT scores typically qualify, and do they vary by state? Thanks in advance!

To qualify as a National Merit Semifinalist, you'll need to achieve a high score on the PSAT that falls within the top 1% of students in your state. The qualifying scores do indeed vary by state, as the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) establishes different Selection Index score cutoffs for each state to determine Semifinalist eligibility.

The Selection Index score is calculated using your PSAT section scores: both Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math. Each section score ranges from 160 to 760. To determine your Selection Index score, you'll double your EBRW score and add your Math score (selection index = (2 x EBRW) + Math). The resulting Selection Index score can range from 480 to 2280.

Cutoff scores for National Merit Semifinalist status generally range from the low 210s to the low 220s, with higher cutoffs for states with more competitive applicants, such as California, Massachusetts, and New York. It's important to note that these cutoff scores can fluctuate slightly from year to year, so what qualified in one year may not necessarily be the exact same for the following year.

To determine the qualifying score for your state, you can search online for the most recent National Merit Semifinalist cutoff scores, since they are determined and published annually. Keep in mind that PSAT scores are only one part of the National Merit Scholarship Program, and to advance from Semifinalist to Finalist status, you'll need to submit an application including your academic record, extracurricular activities, and an essay, as well as meeting additional requirements like taking the SAT and achieving a qualifying score.